There’s something irresistibly comforting about the classic stuffed pepper, with its vibrant colors and harmonious blend of savory ingredients nestled snugly inside a tender bell pepper. Now, imagine capturing all that cozy goodness in a steaming bowl of soup-introducing Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup with a Savory Ground Beef Twist. This inventive take transforms the beloved dish into a soul-warming meal, combining the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and sweet peppers swimming in a robust tomato broth. Whether it’s a chilly evening craving or a simple weeknight dinner, this soup delivers all the satisfying layers of stuffed peppers in a bowl, inviting you to savor every spoonful of its hearty, comforting charm.
Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup with Savory ground Beef Twist is a comforting and vibrant dish that brings the classic flavors of stuffed peppers into a warm, soul-soothing bowl. This recipe is the perfect marriage of robust beef,sweet bell peppers,and aromatic herbs simmered in a rich tomato base,creating a hearty meal that feels like a hug in every spoonful. Originating from traditional family dinners where simplicity met wholesomeness, this soup has evolved to accommodate busy weeknights while delivering maximum flavor and satisfaction.
Prep and Cook Time
- Planning Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield
Serves 6 generous bowls
Difficulty Level
Easy to Medium - perfect for cooks of all skill levels who want a flavorful one-pot meal
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef, preferably lean (85% lean)
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium bell peppers, assorted colors, diced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes, canned
- 4 cups beef broth, low sodium
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, optional garnish
Instructions
- heat olive oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no pink remains, about 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the minced garlic and diced bell peppers; sauté until peppers soften slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Mix in the smoked paprika,dried oregano,ground cumin,and crushed red pepper flakes if using.Stir well to coat the beef and vegetables, releasing their aromas.
- Add the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously to deepen the flavor.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the rinsed rice and gently stir to distribute evenly. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and cover the pot.Let it simmer for 25-30 minutes until the rice is cooked through and the soup thickens slightly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. For a thicker consistency, simmer uncovered for another 5-10 minutes.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Chef’s Notes
- Meat variations: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Grain options: Use brown rice or quinoa for a heartier, nuttier variant. Increase cooking time accordingly.
- Spice blends: Add a pinch of smoked chipotle powder or fresh chopped jalapeño for extra smokiness and heat.
- Make-ahead: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days or freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Vegetarian option: Replace ground beef with lentils or a plant-based ground substitute, and use vegetable broth rather.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup shines best paired with a thick slice of crusty garlic bread or a warm, buttery cornbread muffin. For added freshness, serve with a simple mixed green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette. Top each bowl with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for contrast, and a sprinkle of sharp cheddar or Parmesan cheese to enhance the savory ground beef twist. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt also brings a delightful creaminess that complements the spice and depth of the soup beautifully.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
For more comforting soup inspirations, check out our Classic Beef and Vegetable Soup recipe. To delve deeper into spice health benefits, visit Healthline’s guide on spices.
Q&A
Q&A: All About Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup with Savory Ground Beef Twist
Q1: What makes Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup with Savory Ground Beef Twist unique compared to traditional stuffed pepper recipes?
A1: Unlike the classic stuffed pepper dish where peppers are filled and baked, this soup transforms all those beloved flavors into a cozy, comforting bowl. The ground beef is browned with aromatic spices, mingling with tender bell peppers, tomatoes, rice, and a rich broth, creating a harmonious symphony of taste that’s both hearty and soul-warming. it’s like your favorite stuffed peppers, but in spoonable form!
Q2: What kind of ground beef works best for this soup?
A2: for that perfect savory depth, opt for ground beef with about 80% lean meat. This balance ensures enough fat for flavor without making the soup greasy. You want the beef to be tender and juicy, enhancing the overall richness of the broth without overpowering the vegetables and spices.
Q3: Can this recipe be customized for different dietary preferences?
A3: Absolutely! Feel free to swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian-amiable option. For a grain twist, try quinoa instead of rice to add extra protein and texture. The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility, adapting effortlessly to your tastes and dietary needs.
Q4: What spices and herbs truly elevate this soup?
A4: Classic bell pepper spices like smoked paprika, garlic, and a touch of cumin bring warmth and depth. Fresh herbs such as parsley or basil sprinkled on top brighten the bowl with herbal freshness, while a hint of oregano can add that traditional ”Mediterranean” touch. These layered flavors make the soup not just hearty but memorable.
Q5: How long dose it take to prepare and cook this stuffed pepper soup?
A5: From chopping to simmering, you’re looking at roughly 45 minutes to an hour. Browning the ground beef and sautéing the veggies takes about 15 minutes, then add your broth and rice for a simmer. The gentle cooking time allows flavors to meld perfectly, resulting in a tender, well-rounded soup.
Q6: What is the best way to serve this soup?
A6: Ladle it into bowls and garnish with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh herbs for extra indulgence. Pair it with crusty bread or warm cornbread to soak up every last drop. It’s a perfect meal to warm you on chilly days or to enjoy as a satisfying lunchtime pick-me-up.
Q7: Can I make this soup ahead and reheat it later?
A7: Yes! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors fuse further. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, making it a fantastic make-ahead comfort food.
Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup with Savory Ground Beef Twist turns a beloved classic into a versatile, spoonable feast. Whether you’re new to stuffed peppers or craving a bold comfort soup, this recipe is sure to satisfy with every savory, tender bite.
the way Forward
As the rich aroma of tender ground beef mingled with vibrant peppers fades from your kitchen, you’re left with more than just a satisfied appetite-you’ve discovered a comforting bowl of warmth and flavor that transforms a classic into something truly special. This Hearty stuffed Pepper Soup with its savory ground beef twist isn’t just a meal; it’s an invitation to cozy evenings and shared moments around the table. Whether enjoyed on a brisk weeknight or savored as leftovers the next day, this soup embodies the perfect balance of nourishment and nostalgia, proving that sometimes, the simplest ingredients create the most memorable dishes. So next time you crave something both hearty and heartwarming, you know exactly where to turn.
