This Stuffed Green Pepper Soup offers all the beloved flavors of traditional stuffed bell peppers, reimagined into a comforting, hearty, one-pot meal. It’s an incredibly easy recipe, brimming with seasoned ground beef, fluffy white rice, tender sautéed onions, and vibrant green bell peppers, all simmered in a rich, savory, tomato-based broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or a satisfying family dinner, this soup delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
If you’re a fan of these classic flavors, you’ll also love exploring our traditional Stuffed Peppers recipe, or for a delightful twist, our Southwest Stuffed Peppers. Both offer unique takes on a timeless dish.
Embrace Comfort: The Ultimate Stuffed Green Pepper Soup Recipe
Are you searching for a simple, nourishing, and incredibly satisfying one-pot meal that comes together effortlessly? Look no further. This Stuffed Green Pepper Soup is a culinary hug in a bowl, packed with lean ground beef, perfectly cooked white rice, aromatic sautéed onions, and fresh bell peppers. The foundation of its irresistible flavor is a rich and savory broth, artfully crafted from diced tomatoes, robust chicken broth, and a hint of classic Italian seasoning. A sprinkle of shredded cheese and a garnish of fresh chopped parsley transform each serving into a cozy slice of heaven, making it an instant family favorite.
Beyond its delicious taste, this soup shines with its convenience. The “one-pot” nature means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal, making it ideal for busy weeknights. It’s a complete meal on its own, providing protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables in every spoonful. However, to truly elevate the experience and ensure not a single drop of that delectable broth goes to waste, I highly recommend serving it alongside freshly baked goods. Imagine dipping warm, fluffy Homemade Flakey Biscuits or light Classic Parker House Rolls into the savory broth. Even a simple store-bought artisan bread can do the trick. A pro tip for meal prep or if you anticipate leftovers: cook the rice separately and add it to individual bowls just before serving. This prevents the rice from becoming mushy and absorbing too much of the flavorful broth, ensuring optimal texture with every bite.
Essential Ingredients for Your Stuffed Green Pepper Soup
Crafting the perfect Stuffed Green Pepper Soup starts with selecting quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so comforting and satisfying. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and some helpful tips for substitutions:
- Ground Beef: For a less greasy and equally flavorful soup, I prefer using lean ground beef, such as 80/20. The lean meat ensures a rich flavor without excessive oil, making for a lighter but still hearty soup. For an even leaner option, or to cater to different dietary preferences, ground turkey or ground chicken are excellent substitutes. Ensure to properly brown and drain any excess fat regardless of the meat choice.
- Onion: Both white or yellow onions work wonderfully in this recipe. They provide a foundational aromatic base, adding a subtle sweetness and depth that complements the savory beef and tangy tomatoes. Finely chopped onions will melt into the broth, while larger dice will add more texture.
- Bell Pepper: While green bell peppers are traditional for their slightly bitter, fresh flavor and vibrant contrasting color, feel free to experiment. Red, yellow, or orange bell peppers can be used for a sweeter flavor profile and a beautiful splash of color. You can even use a mix of colors to make the soup visually appealing and add layers of sweet and savory notes.
- Italian Seasoning: This blend of dried herbs is key to capturing that classic “stuffed pepper” taste. It typically includes oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, a combination of dried oregano, dried basil, and a pinch of dried thyme will work perfectly. Fresh herbs like parsley or oregano can also be added at the end for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Rice: Cooked long-grain white rice is my go-to for its light texture and ability to absorb the broth’s flavors. Since the rice is added pre-cooked, you have flexibility. Brown rice can be used for added fiber and a nutty flavor, or even wild rice for a more robust texture and earthy taste. Remember the tip about adding cooked rice to individual bowls if you plan for leftovers to avoid mushiness.
- Diced Tomatoes: A 29-ounce can of diced tomatoes forms the tangy, rich base of our soup. You can choose to drain the tomatoes for a thicker soup or include the juice for a slightly thinner consistency and more intense tomato flavor. Fire-roasted diced tomatoes can add a subtle smoky depth, while crushed tomatoes can create an even smoother, richer broth.
- Chicken Broth: This liquid gold brings all the flavors together. Chicken broth provides a light yet savory backdrop, but beef broth can be used for an even richer, deeper umami flavor. Opt for low-sodium versions to better control the overall saltiness of your soup, adjusting seasoning to your preference. Vegetable broth can also be used for a vegetarian version (paired with plant-based ground meat).
- Shredded Cheese: Mozzarella cheese is my usual choice for its mild flavor and excellent melting capabilities, creating those irresistible cheesy strands. However, cheddar cheese offers a sharper taste, while pepper jack adds a delightful hint of spice. Feel free to use your favorite melty cheese or a blend to top your soup for that extra layer of comfort and indulgence.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Stuffed Pepper Soup
Creating this delicious Stuffed Green Pepper Soup is straightforward, even for novice cooks. Follow these simple steps for a hearty and satisfying meal:
- Brown the Beef, Onion, and Pepper: Begin by heating a large Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add your lean ground beef, along with the chopped onion, diced bell pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook the mixture, breaking up the beef with a spoon as it browns, and stirring occasionally. Continue cooking until the ground beef is fully cooked through and the vegetables have softened and become tender, typically about 7-10 minutes. Once cooked, carefully drain any excess grease from the pot to ensure a cleaner, less oily soup. This step is crucial for developing the foundational flavors of the soup.
- Combine and Simmer to Perfection: After the beef and vegetables are thoroughly cooked and any excess fat has been drained, it’s time to bring all the wonderful flavors together. Stir in the cooked rice, the entire can of diced tomatoes (including their juice, or drained if you prefer a thicker soup), and the chicken or beef broth. Stir everything well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed and combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover the pot and let the soup cook for approximately 20 minutes. This simmering time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. Periodically check the soup and add a bit more broth if needed to keep all the ingredients submerged and to achieve your desired soup consistency.
- Serve and Savor: Once the soup has simmered and the flavors have fully developed, remove the pot from the heat. Ladle generous portions of the hot soup into individual bowls. For the ultimate finishing touch, top each serving with a hearty sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese (or your cheese of choice) and, if desired, a garnish of fresh chopped parsley. The cheese will melt beautifully into the hot soup, adding a creamy, savory layer. Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting, homemade delight!
Frequently Asked Questions About Stuffed Green Pepper Soup
Here are some common questions and helpful answers to ensure your Stuffed Green Pepper Soup turns out perfect every time:
When stored in an airtight container, your Stuffed Green Pepper Soup will stay fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s a fantastic meal prep option! When reheating, you might notice the rice has absorbed more liquid, making the soup thicker. Simply add a splash more chicken or beef broth to achieve your preferred consistency while warming it up.
This hearty soup, loaded with ground beef, rice, and fresh vegetables, is truly a complete meal on its own. However, if you’re looking to round out your dinner, a simple side can elevate the experience. My personal favorites include warm, fluffy baked goods that are perfect for soaking up every last drop of the savory broth. Consider serving it with Hearty Wheat Rolls, classic Parker House Rolls, or our incredibly tender Homemade Flakey Biscuits. A fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette also makes a wonderful complement, adding a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
Yes, this soup freezes well, but with a crucial tip: for the best texture, we highly recommend freezing it *without* the cooked rice. Rice tends to get mushy and can change the overall consistency of the soup after freezing and thawing. If you plan to freeze, simply prepare the soup up to the point of adding rice, then cool it completely. Store it in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator or gently warm it directly from frozen in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Once warmed, cook fresh rice separately and add a scoop to each bowl before serving.
Absolutely! The slow cooker is a fantastic way to prepare this soup with minimal fuss. Start by browning the ground beef, chopped onion, and diced bell pepper in a skillet on the stovetop for about 5-7 minutes. This step helps develop deeper flavors. Once browned, transfer the mixture to your slow cooker. Add the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Give it a good stir. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-7 hours, or until the rice is tender and the flavors have melded. Adjust seasoning before serving, and top with cheese as desired.
Certainly! To make this a vegetarian-friendly soup, simply substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative. Ensure you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The rest of the ingredients and steps remain largely the same, resulting in a delicious and satisfying meat-free option.
For those who enjoy a little kick, there are several ways to spice up your Stuffed Green Pepper Soup. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the Italian seasoning during the browning step. A dash of hot sauce stirred into individual bowls at serving time also works well. For a more integrated spice, try adding a finely diced jalapeño or serrano pepper when sautéing the onions and bell peppers.
Storing and Reheating Instructions for Your Stuffed Green Pepper Soup
Proper storage and reheating ensure your delicious Stuffed Green Pepper Soup stays fresh and flavorful for future meals.
- Refrigerator: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes it a great option for packed lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
- Freezer: For longer storage, this soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. As mentioned, for the best texture, it’s highly recommended to freeze the soup *without* the rice. If you’ve already added the rice, understand that its texture may change upon thawing. To thaw, simply transfer the frozen soup to the refrigerator overnight.
- To Reheat: Whether from the fridge or thawed from the freezer, transfer the soup to a saucepan. Add a bit more broth (chicken, beef, or vegetable) as the rice will likely have absorbed a lot of the liquid during storage. Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the soup is thoroughly warmed through. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
Stuffed Green Pepper Soup Recipe
Author: The Carefree Kitchen
This stuffed pepper soup has all of the ingredients you love about classic stuffed peppers cooked into a hearty soup. It’s an easy one-pot recipe full of ground beef, rice, sautéed onions and green bell peppers in a rich and savory tomato based broth.
Print Recipe
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Yields: 8 people
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (lean suggested)
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ cups white rice, cooked
- 1 (29-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 16 ounces chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven over medium high heat, add the ground beef, chopped onion, diced bell pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and broth and stir to combine. Cover the pot, reduce to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes. Add more broth as needed to keep all of the ingredients submerged.
- Remove from the heat and serve topped with shredded cheese. Enjoy!
Notes
Storing leftovers: store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months. To thaw, transfer to the fridge overnight.
Reheating: put soup into a saucepan and add a bit more broth. Reheat over medium, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
If you plan to freeze this soup, it is best to freeze it without the rice for optimal texture.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 39g
Protein: 19g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 51mg
Sodium: 718mg
Potassium: 629mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g
Vitamin A: 967IU
Vitamin C: 37mg
Calcium: 142mg
Iron: 3mg
Disclaimer: Nutritional values were calculated using a third-party tool and are provided as an estimation only.
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: American
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Discover More Delicious One-Pot Soup Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the ease and comfort of this Stuffed Green Pepper Soup, you’re in for a treat! One-pot soups are a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome, flavorful meal with minimal cleanup. Here are some of our other favorite one-pot wonders that are sure to warm your soul and simplify your cooking:
- Bright & Zesty Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup: A light yet satisfying soup with tender chicken, pasta, and a refreshing lemon kick.
- Hearty Lasagna Soup: All the flavors of your favorite pasta dish, deconstructed into a rich, comforting soup.
- Creamy White Chicken Chili: A milder, yet incredibly flavorful chili featuring tender chicken and creamy beans.
- Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup: Recreate the restaurant classic at home with this creamy, delicious recipe.
- Easy Taco Soup: A vibrant and customizable soup bursting with Tex-Mex flavors.
- Explore even more Delicious Soup Recipes for every occasion and craving.
- Browse our full collection of Savory Beef Recipes, perfect for family dinners.
- Don’t let those fresh veggies go to waste! Learn How to Freeze Bell Peppers for future use.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dish to share, this hearty, one-pot Stuffed Green Pepper Soup, packed with ground beef, rice, sautéed onions, and flavorful bell peppers, is a guaranteed winner. If you appreciate the homestyle goodness of traditional stuffed peppers, you’ll undoubtedly adore every spoonful of this simplified, delicious soup.