Stuffed Pepper Soup

Stuffed Pepper Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that captures all the delicious elements of stuffed peppers in a comforting soup form. This recipe offers a delightful combination of ground beef, colorful bell peppers, aromatic garlic and onion, and savory Italian seasoning. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal on a chilly day, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef (90% lean)
• 3/4 cup chopped onion
• 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) petite diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) beef broth
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into smaller pieces with a spatula, which should take approximately 5-6 minutes.
2. Add chopped onion to the pot and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Then, add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Season the beef and onion mixture with salt and pepper according to taste.
4. Stir in the red and green bell peppers and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
5. Add the petite diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and Italian seasoning to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Allow the soup to cook for 15-20 minutes until the peppers are tender and the flavors have melded together.
7. Stir in the cooked white rice and season the soup with additional salt and pepper if desired.
8. Garnish the soup with chopped parsley before serving.

Tips:

• For added flavor, consider using fire-roasted diced tomatoes.
• Feel free to customize the soup by adding other vegetables such as diced carrots or celery.
• If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can reduce the amount of beef broth used.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

Conclusion:
Stuffed Pepper Soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together the classic flavors of stuffed peppers in a convenient and delicious soup form. With its simple preparation and hearty ingredients, this recipe is sure to please both family and friends alike. Enjoy this comforting bowl of soup on a cold winter night or anytime you’re craving a warm and flavorful meal.

FAQs for Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe

1. Can I use a different type of meat in this soup?

• Absolutely! While the recipe calls for ground beef, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative like crumbled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version. Just keep in mind that different meats may alter the flavor slightly, so adjust seasoning as needed.

1. Can I make this soup in advance?

• Yes, Stuffed Pepper Soup is a great make-ahead meal. You can prepare the soup up to the point of adding the cooked rice, then allow it to cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, then stir in the cooked rice and garnish with parsley before serving.

1. Can I freeze this soup?

• Absolutely! Stuffed Pepper Soup freezes well, making it a convenient option for meal prep or for storing leftovers. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Be sure to leave some room for expansion, as the soup will expand as it freezes. Frozen soup can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

1. Can I customize this soup with additional ingredients?

• Yes, this soup is highly customizable to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. You can add extra vegetables such as diced carrots, celery, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper. Additionally, you can top each serving with a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. Feel free to get creative and make this soup your own!

These frequently asked questions aim to address common queries that individuals may have when preparing Stuffed Pepper Soup. By providing clear and concise answers, it enhances the cooking experience and encourages experimentation with the recipe to suit personal preferences and dietary requirements.