Stuffed pepper soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table. This hearty one-pot meal is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. With its rich flavors from ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a savory tomato-based broth, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite spices and toppings, making it versatile for any occasion.

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
- Step 6: Serve Hot
- Step 7: Enjoy!
- How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Garnish Ideas
- Accompaniments
- Serving Style
- 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
- What is Stuffed Pepper Soup?
- Can I make Stuffed Pepper Soup in advance?
- How can I customize my Stuffed Pepper Soup?
- Is there a vegetarian option for Stuffed Pepper Soup?
- Can I use different types of rice?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This stuffed pepper soup comes together in just 40 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.
- One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup with this one-pot recipe, allowing you to focus on savoring your meal.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of ground beef, bell peppers, and Italian seasoning creates a deliciously satisfying flavor profile.
- Versatile Meal: You can easily modify the recipe by adding different vegetables or grains to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Great for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect stuffed pepper soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven: Ideal for even cooking and great for simmering soups.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and effortless.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
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
Start by heating your Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the lean ground beef to the pot.
Cook until browned while breaking up any clumps with a wooden spoon.
Drain any excess grease if needed.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, add the olive oil.
Sauté the diced onions and chopped bell peppers until they are soft, about five minutes.
Add minced garlic and sauté for another thirty seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked beef to the pot.
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
Add Worcestershire sauce, optional sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasonings to your liking.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Reduce heat to medium-low.
Allow it to simmer for about fifteen to twenty minutes while stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Add Rice
If you plan on enjoying all servings immediately:
Stir in cooked rice along with fresh parsley.
Simmer until heated through for about one to two minutes.
If you’re saving some for later:
Stir parsley into the soup without adding rice yet. Heat rice separately before serving.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Dish out the soup into bowls.
Garnish each serving with shredded cheese if desired.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Take a moment to appreciate your creation before diving in!
How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed pepper soup is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this comforting dish.
Garnish Ideas
- Shredded Cheese: Top each bowl with shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a creamy finish.
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil to enhance the flavors and add color.
Accompaniments
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping into the soup.
- Salad: Pair with a light green salad to balance the hearty soup.
Serving Style
- In Bowls: Ladle the soup into deep bowls for a rustic presentation.
- In Bread Bowls: For an extra fun twist, serve in hollowed-out bread rolls.

How to Perfect Stuffed Pepper Soup
To elevate your stuffed pepper soup, consider these helpful tips that will enhance flavor and texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh bell peppers and herbs for vibrant flavors.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed; add crushed red pepper for heat.
- Cook Rice Separately: If you want leftovers, cook rice separately and stir in before serving.
- Allow to Rest: Let the soup sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking for the flavors to meld together.
- Add More Veggies: Consider adding corn or diced zucchini for extra nutrition and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed pepper soup pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal.
- Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment for soaking up the broth.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and a tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with the soup.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread provides a delightful contrast to the savory notes of stuffed pepper soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The gooey cheese and crunchy bread create a comforting meal alongside the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables can bring added flavor and nutrients to your dinner table.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making stuffed pepper soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the ground beef can lead to a bland flavor. Always brown it well for a rich taste.
- Overcooking Vegetables: Cooking the onions and peppers too long may result in mushiness. Sauté until they are just soft for the best texture.
- Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Not adjusting seasonings after adding ingredients can lead to an unbalanced flavor. Always taste and adjust as needed.
- Using Uncooked Rice: Adding uncooked rice directly into the soup can make it soggy. Ensure rice is cooked beforehand for proper consistency.
- Forgetting Fresh Herbs: Skipping fresh herbs like parsley can diminish freshness. Add them right before serving for vibrant flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover stuffed pepper soup in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat soup in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about stuffed pepper soup:
What is Stuffed Pepper Soup?
Stuffed pepper soup is a hearty dish made with ground beef, bell peppers, rice, and tomatoes all simmered together for comforting flavors.
Can I make Stuffed Pepper Soup in advance?
Yes! This soup tastes even better when made ahead of time. Refrigerate or freeze it for later use.
How can I customize my Stuffed Pepper Soup?
You can add other vegetables, switch proteins like turkey or sausage, or use different types of broth based on your preferences.
Is there a vegetarian option for Stuffed Pepper Soup?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with lentils or beans and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
Can I use different types of rice?
Yes! Feel free to substitute long grain rice with brown rice or even quinoa for added nutrition.
Final Thoughts
Stuffed pepper soup is not only cozy but also versatile. With its hearty ingredients and rich flavors, it’s perfect for any night of the week. Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own!
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📖 Recipe Card
PrintStuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed Pepper Soup is the ultimate cozy comfort dish that brings warmth to your table. This hearty, one-pot meal is filled with ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and savory tomatoes, creating a delightful blend of flavors that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s not only quick to make but also easy to customize with your favorite spices or additional veggies. Whether you enjoy it topped with cheese or fresh herbs, this soup is sure to become a weeknight staple in your home.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
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 (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Optional: sugar, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper, cooked rice
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease and set aside.
- Sauté the onions and bell peppers in olive oil until soft. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Return the beef to the pot and stir in 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 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in cooked rice if serving immediately; otherwise, add before serving later.
- Serve hot with optional cheese and fresh herbs as garnish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 300g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg





