Stuffed Bell Pepper Soup

This hearty stuffed bell pepper soup combines the flavors of classic stuffed peppers into a warm, comforting bowl. It is perfect for cooler evenings when you want something filling yet easy to prepare. The mix of ground beef, bell peppers, and rice all simmered in a rich tomato broth brings a cozy, familiar taste to your table.

I made this soup the first time on a chilly autumn evening and it quickly became a family favorite. Now it’s one of the most requested meals during the colder months.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: offers a hearty base and rich flavor choose lean or regular depending on your preference
• Bell peppers: one red and one green provide sweetness and a bit of crunch for texture and authentic stuffed pepper taste
• Onion: adds natural sweetness and depth to the soup
• Garlic: brings a savory aroma and enhances overall flavor
• Cajun seasoning: infuses a mild kick and complexity it works beautifully with the beef and peppers
• Black pepper and red pepper flakes: add warmth and customizable heat adjust to your liking
• Worcestershire sauce: enriches the broth with a subtle umami layer
• Diced tomatoes and crushed tomatoes: create a thick tangy tomato base look for quality canned tomatoes for best flavor
• Beef broth: keeps the soup savory and moist use low sodium if you want to control salt
• Long grain white rice: soaks up the broth and makes the soup extra satisfying
• Shredded cheddar cheese: adds a creamy finish when sprinkled on top

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Meat and Vegetables:

Cook ground beef with chopped onions and diced bell peppers over medium heat. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning black pepper and red pepper flakes. Stir occasionally and cook until the meat is browned and the vegetables have softened. This step builds the foundation of your soup’s flavor.

Add the Garlic:

Stir in the minced garlic and cook it for about two minutes until you can smell its fragrance fill the kitchen. This step ensures that the garlic’s flavor infuses the whole soup without becoming bitter.

Remove Excess Fat:

If there is a lot of grease from the cooked beef drain it carefully. This keeps the soup from becoming too oily but still flavorful.

Combine Remaining Ingredients:

Pour in the diced tomatoes crushed tomatoes Worcestershire sauce beef broth and rice. Stir everything thoroughly to combine all the flavors and distribute the rice evenly.

Simmer Gently:

Bring the soup to a gentle boil then lower the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 25 to 30 minutes. This allows the rice to cook fully and absorb the tasty broth.

Serve with Cheese:

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top each serving with a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese melts into the soup adding a creamy tangy finish.

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One of my favorite memories with this soup was a lazy Sunday when the family gathered around the table passing bowls filled with the warm soup topped with melting cheddar. The bell pepper flavors remind me of summer while the hot broth comforts me like a winter embrace.

Storage Tips

Let the soup cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It keeps in the refrigerator for four days and freezes well for up to three months. Reheat on the stove over medium low heat stirring occasionally to bring it back to life without drying out.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer poultry ground turkey or chicken work nicely but cook slightly less time to keep meat tender. For a spicier version swap Cajun seasoning with chipotle or smoked paprika. Try brown rice instead of white for more fiber but increase simmering time by about 10 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup with a crisp green salad and some warm crusty bread to soak up every last drop. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro can add a refreshing contrast.

Cultural Background

Stuffed peppers have a long tradition in many cuisines and turning the classic stuffed pepper into a soup shows how versatile comfort foods can be. This soup captures all the familiar flavors of the original dish but in a quicker and shareable way perfect for modern busy kitchens.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use other proteins instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey or Italian sausage can be excellent alternatives, providing different flavors and textures.

→ How can I adjust the spice level in this dish?

Modify the amount of red pepper flakes and Cajun seasoning to suit your preferred heat intensity.

→ What’s the best way to thicken the broth?

For a thicker consistency, reduce the beef broth slightly or stir in a cornstarch slurry near the end of cooking.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well and flavors often deepen after resting overnight in the refrigerator.

→ What cheese pairs well with this soup?

Shredded cheddar cheese adds a creamy richness that complements the savory and slightly spicy flavors perfectly.