Pepper Soup Recipe

This Pepper Soup Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that brings together the rich flavors of Italian stuffed peppers into a delightful soup. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish combines juicy Italian sausage, bell peppers, and fragrant herbs in a savory broth. Whether you’re using fresh ingredients or leftovers, this recipe adapts to your pantry and ensures a satisfying meal every time.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Pepper Soup Recipe
• Step 1: Brown the Meat
• Step 2: Add Vegetables
• Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients
• Step 4: Simmer the Soup
• Step 5: Final Touches
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Pepper Soup Recipe
• With Crusty Bread
• Topped with Fresh Herbs
• Accompanied by Salads
• Served with Cheese
• How to Perfect Pepper Soup Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Pepper Soup Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Pepper Soup Recipe
• Reheating Pepper Soup Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different types of meat for this pepper soup?
• What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
• How spicy is this pepper soup recipe?
• Can I add extra vegetables?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup cooks in just one pot and takes only about 35 minutes from start to finish.
• Flavorful and Hearty: Enjoy the delicious combination of Italian sausage, rice, and spices that create a warm, comforting bowl of goodness.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your soup with whatever vegetables or proteins you have on hand, making it perfect for using up leftovers.
• Family-Friendly: With its familiar flavors, even picky eaters will love this hearty dish.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this pepper soup fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without splattering.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring safety while preparing ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. hot Italian sausage (may sub lean ground beef/turkey – see notes)
• 1 small yellow onion, (chopped (or half large))
• 1 red bell pepper, (1/2-inch chop)
• 1 green bell pepper, (1/2-inch chop)
• 4-6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/8-1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes, no salt/seasonings added
• 1 14.5 oz. can fire roasted diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 3/4 cup uncooked long grain white rice (see notes for options)
• 1 TBS EACH fresh chopped basil, oregano, parsley (or 1 tsp EACH dried)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 6 cups low sodium beef broth
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Freshly shredded mozzarella for serving

How to Make Pepper Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the hot Italian sausage and chopped onions. Cook for about four minutes while breaking up the sausage with a wooden spoon until browned.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Add the chopped red and green bell peppers, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Sauté for an additional two to three minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Drain any excess grease from the pot. Stir in all remaining ingredients except for the cheeses. Mix well to combine everything evenly.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for eight to twelve minutes, stirring occasionally until the rice is cooked through.

Step 5: Final Touches

After simmering, stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more broth at this stage.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle the hot pepper soup into bowls and top with freshly shredded mozzarella cheese. Enjoy while hot!

How to Serve Pepper Soup Recipe

Serving your Pepper Soup is an opportunity to enhance its delightful flavors. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: The perfect companion, this bread adds a wonderful crunch and flavor that pairs well with the soup.
• French Baguette: Slice it up and serve it warm; it’s great for dipping into the rich broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and enhances the soup’s flavor.
• Basil Leaves: Fresh basil gives a fragrant twist that complements the Italian flavors beautifully.

Accompanied by Salads

• Caesar Salad: This classic salad with romaine lettuce and creamy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
• Greek Salad: Bright and tangy, this salad introduces feta cheese and olives, which can balance out the spices in the soup.

Served with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate some fresh Parmesan on top for an extra layer of richness.
• Mozzarella Balls: Add small mozzarella balls for a fun texture that melts in your mouth as you enjoy the soup.

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How to Perfect Pepper Soup Recipe

Perfecting your Pepper Soup is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your vegetables and herbs, the better flavor you’ll achieve in your soup.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer more heat, add extra red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage. For milder flavors, reduce accordingly.
• Cook Rice Separately: To ensure perfect rice texture, consider cooking it separately before adding it to the soup. This prevents overcooking.
• Experiment with Proteins: Try using ground turkey or even plant-based sausage for different flavor profiles while keeping it healthy.

Best Side Dishes for Pepper Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Pepper Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks are easy to make and great for dipping.
2. Caprese Salad: A light salad of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil that complements the soup’s richness.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add a delicious side with minimal effort.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs make a delightful appetizer alongside your soup.
5. Antipasto Platter: A variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables create an appealing starter before the main dish.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a comforting touch that balances the spiciness of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Pepper Soup Recipe can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes is crucial for the best results.

• Using overcooked rice – Ensure your rice is cooked just right. Overcooked rice can turn mushy and affect the soup’s texture.
• Neglecting seasoning – A lack of seasoning can make your soup bland. Always taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance flavor.
• Skipping the browning step – Don’t skip browning the sausage and onions. This step adds depth and richness to your soup.
• Not allowing time for flavors to meld – Rushing the simmering process may prevent flavors from developing fully. Allow the soup to simmer long enough for all ingredients to combine.
• Ignoring ingredient substitutions – Feel free to substitute vegetables or proteins based on what you have. Ignoring this can limit your creativity and enjoyment.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let it cool completely before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing Pepper Soup Recipe

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Pepper Soup Recipe

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat soup in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute increments until hot.
• Stovetop – Reheat in a pot over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Pepper Soup Recipe that may help you.

Can I use different types of meat for this pepper soup?

Yes! You can substitute with ground turkey, lean beef, or even leftover cooked meats. Each will give a unique flavor.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Dried herbs are a great alternative. Use about one-third of the amount called for fresh herbs when substituting.

How spicy is this pepper soup recipe?

The heat level can vary based on the type of Italian sausage used. For less spice, choose mild sausage or reduce red pepper flakes.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Pepper Soup Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with various ingredients based on your taste preferences or what’s available in your kitchen. Whether paired with garlic bread or enjoyed on its own, it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation!