The Ultimate Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup: SEO-Friendly Recipe
Introduction: The Comfort Classic in a Bowl
Stuffed Pepper Soup is the perfect dish for a chilly evening or when you’re craving a deeply satisfying, home-cooked meal. It takes the timeless, beloved flavors of traditional stuffed bell peppers—a harmonious blend of seasoned ground meat, sweet bell peppers, tender rice, and a rich, tangy tomato sauce—and reimagines them in an easy-to-eat, one-pot wonder.
This recipe is designed to be simple yet robust, delivering maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Forget the tedious process of stuffing and baking; this soup brings the same comfort and heartiness to your table in a fraction of the time. Whether you call it Deconstructed Stuffed Peppers or simply the best soup you’ve ever had, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. This long-form guide provides not just the steps, but the tips and tricks to elevate your soup game, making it a powerful contender in the world of comfort food recipes and easy weeknight dinners.
Part I: Ingredient Deep Dive & Preparation
A great soup starts with great ingredients. For a truly authentic Stuffed Pepper Soup, quality meat, fresh vegetables, and a well-seasoned tomato base are non-negotiable.
The Essential Ingredient List
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Prep Time:Â 15 minutes
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Cook Time:Â 35-45 minutes
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Total Time:Â 50-60 minutes
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Servings:Â 6-8
| Category | Ingredient | Quantity | Notes for Success |
| Protein | Lean Ground Beef (or a mix of Beef/Pork/Turkey) | 1.5 pounds | Using lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) reduces the need for excessive draining. |
| Aromatics | Yellow or White Onion, diced | 1 large | Provides a necessary savory depth to the base. |
| Garlic, minced | 4-5 cloves | Fresh garlic is best for maximum flavor. | |
| Vegetables | Green Bell Pepper, diced (1/2 inch) | 1 large | Essential for that classic “stuffed pepper” flavor profile. |
| Red Bell Pepper, diced (1/2 inch) | 1 large | Adds sweetness, color, and texture. | |
| Tomato Base | Beef Broth (low sodium) | 6 cups | The primary liquid for a rich, deep flavor. |
| Tomato Sauce | 1 (15 oz) can | Thickens the soup and adds a smooth tomato essence. | |
| Diced Tomatoes, undrained (regular or fire-roasted) | 1 (28 oz) can | Provides texture and a tangy acidity. Fire-roasted adds a smoky note. | |
| Seasoning | Italian Seasoning Blend | 2 teaspoons | A blend of oregano, basil, and marjoram for traditional flavor. |
| Dried Thyme | 1 teaspoon | Adds an earthy, slightly minty note. | |
| Brown Sugar (or granulated sugar) | 1 tablespoon | Optional, but highly recommended to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. | |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1 teaspoon | Adds umami depth and complexity. | |
| Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper | To taste | Seasoning is crucial; don’t skimp on tasting as you go! | |
| The Binder | White Rice (uncooked, long-grain or Basmati) | 1 cup | The classic “stuffing.” You can also use cooked rice and add it later. |
| Fats | Olive Oil or Canola Oil | 1-2 tablespoons | For browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables. |
Pro-Tip: Choosing Your Rice
For the best texture, use a long-grain white rice like Jasmine or Basmati.
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If using uncooked rice:Â The rice will cook right in the broth, soaking up flavor and thickening the soup. Add it at the beginning of the simmering process.
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If using pre-cooked rice:Â Add it near the end of the simmering process (the last 5-10 minutes) just to heat through, as adding it too early can make the soup too thick or mushy.
Pre-Cooking Prep: Mise en Place
Before you even turn on the stove, ensure all your vegetables are diced to a uniform size (about $1/2$ inch pieces). This ensures they cook evenly and guarantees a visually appealing, professional-looking soup, as seen in the photograph.
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Dice the onion.
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Dice the red and green bell peppers.
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Mince the garlic.
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Measure out all your spices and liquids.