Stuffed pepper soup is a delightful dish that brings all the flavors of stuffed peppers into a warm, comforting bowl. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, this soup combines lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, and savory spices in a rich tomato broth. Easy to prepare and satisfying, it’s a recipe that everyone will love.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- How to Make Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
- Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- Step 5: Add Rice (if necessary)
- Step 6: Serve Hot
- Step 7: Enjoy!
- How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Soup
- With Fresh Bread
- Topped with Cheese
- Accompanied by Salad
- With Rice or Quinoa
- As Part of a Meal
- How to Perfect Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Reheating Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Stuffed Pepper Soup without meat?
- How do I add more flavor to my Stuffed Pepper Soup?
- What can I serve with Stuffed Pepper Soup?
- How do I know when my Stuffed Pepper Soup is done cooking?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup with this simple one-pot meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
- Hearty and Filling: With ground beef, rice, and veggies, this soup is packed with nutrition and warmth.
- Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to your taste—add more veggies or swap out the meat for a vegetarian version.
- Great for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal choice for meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making your stuffed pepper soup, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven: Ideal for browning meat and simmering soups evenly without sticking.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
- Chef’s knife: A versatile tool that makes chopping quick and easy.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements to ensure the best flavor balance.
Ingredients
Stuffed pepper soup is a cozy and hearty one-pot dinner loaded with ground beef, onions, bell peppers and rice in a rustic tomato-based broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. lean ground beef
– 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
– 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1/2 cup)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
– 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
– 2 (14.5 oz.) cans diced tomatoes
– 1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar, or to taste (optional, see notes)
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups cooked long grain white rice
– 2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley, chopped
– Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese, for serving (optional)
How to Make Stuffed Pepper Soup
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef while breaking up any clumps. Drain grease if necessary. Season the beef with salt and pepper to taste before removing it from the pot.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Sauté the diced onions and chopped bell peppers in 1 tablespoon of olive oil until they are soft, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the cooked ground beef along with diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Season with Worcestershire sauce, optional sugar, and Italian seasoning. Taste the mixture and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes while stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Add Rice (if necessary)
If you don’t plan on saving leftovers, stir in cooked rice along with parsley. Simmer until heated through (about 1–2 minutes). If you want leftovers, stir in parsley first; then add rice to each bowl when serving.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Dish up your delicious stuffed pepper soup hot! Garnish with shredded cheese if desired.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Sit back, relax, and enjoy your cozy bowl of stuffed pepper soup!
How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Soup
Serving stuffed pepper soup can be a delightful experience. This comforting dish pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and textures. Here are some creative serving suggestions.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Sliced baguette toasted lightly makes for a perfect dipper.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor complements the soup beautifully.
Topped with Cheese
- Shredded Cheddar: Adding cheddar cheese before serving adds richness and creaminess.
- Parmesan: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top gives a salty kick.
Accompanied by Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crispness that contrasts nicely with the warmth of the soup.
- Garden Salad: Fresh greens with a tangy vinaigrette provide a refreshing balance.
With Rice or Quinoa
- Herbed Rice: Cooking rice with herbs boosts flavor and pairs wonderfully with the soup.
- Quinoa: For a healthy twist, serve quinoa as a side or mix it into the soup.
As Part of a Meal
- Sandwich Combo: Pairing the soup with a grilled cheese sandwich makes for a hearty meal.
- Stuffed Peppers: For those who love the original dish, serve mini stuffed peppers alongside.

How to Perfect Stuffed Pepper Soup
To achieve the ultimate stuffed pepper soup, consider these helpful tips for enhancing its flavor and texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs bring out the best flavors in your soup.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving; adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
- Cook Rice Separately: If you’re saving leftovers, cook rice separately to prevent it from becoming mushy in the broth.
- Add Heat: For spice lovers, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for kick.
- Garnish Creatively: Fresh parsley or basil can brighten up the presentation and add freshness to each bowl.
- Experiment with Broth: Try using homemade beef broth for richer flavor compared to store-bought options.
Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Pepper Soup
Pairing side dishes with stuffed pepper soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this cozy dish perfectly.
- Garlic Knots: These soft and buttery knots soaked in garlic butter are perfect for dipping into your soup.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the soup.
- Stuffed Breadsticks: Cheese or spinach-stuffed breadsticks provide an extra cheesy touch alongside your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and nutrition to your table while complementing the soup’s hearty nature.
- Pasta Salad: A cool pasta salad adds freshness and variety, making it an ideal sidekick.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs create a satisfying crunch that pairs well with liquid meals.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Stuffed pepper soup can be a delightful dish, but there are common mistakes that can affect its flavor and texture. Here are some to watch out for:
- Skipping the Browning Step: Failing to brown the ground beef properly can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always take the time to brown the meat to enhance the overall taste.
- Underseasoning: Not seasoning your soup adequately can make it bland. Taste as you go and adjust with salt, pepper, and spices.
- Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking the onions and peppers too long can result in mushy textures. Aim for a tender crunch for a better bite.
- Ignoring Rice Storage: Adding rice directly into the soup can make it soggy if you have leftovers. Store rice separately to maintain texture.
- Rushing Simmering Time: Skipping the simmer step can prevent flavors from melding together. Give it ample time on a low heat for optimal flavor development.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- The soup will last for 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Allow the soup to cool before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can last up to 3 months.
Reheating Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about stuffed pepper soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I make Stuffed Pepper Soup without meat?
Yes! You can substitute ground beef with beans or lentils for a vegetarian version of stuffed pepper soup.
How do I add more flavor to my Stuffed Pepper Soup?
Consider adding extra spices like paprika or cayenne pepper. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano also elevate the flavor profile.
What can I serve with Stuffed Pepper Soup?
This cozy soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even grilled cheese sandwiches.
How do I know when my Stuffed Pepper Soup is done cooking?
Your soup is ready once all ingredients are heated through and flavors have melded together after simmering for about 15-20 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Stuffed pepper soup is not only hearty and comforting but also customizable. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or proteins according to your taste preferences. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!
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Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 6 servings 1x
Description
Stuffed Pepper Soup is a warm and comforting dish that captures the classic flavors of stuffed peppers in a hearty, one-pot meal. This delightful soup features lean ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and wholesome rice simmered in a savory tomato broth, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With its rich taste and satisfying texture, everyone at the table will love this easy-to-make recipe. Customize it to your liking by adding more vegetables or swapping the meat for a vegetarian option. Plus, it’s great for leftovers, as the flavors deepen with time!
Ingredients
- 1 lb. lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cans diced tomatoes
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups cooked long grain white rice
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and season with salt and pepper.
- Add olive oil and sauté onions and bell peppers until soft (about 5 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Return the ground beef to the pot; add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, optional sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
- If not saving leftovers, stir in cooked rice and parsley; if saving rice for later use, serve rice separately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg





