Stuffed Bell Pepper Soup: A Hearty, Comforting Meal

Quick Benefits

Stuffed Bell Pepper Soup delivers all the rich flavors of traditional stuffed peppers in a warm and hearty bowl. This easy-to-make, one-pot recipe is packed with seasoned ground beef, tender bell peppers, savory tomatoes, and rice, all simmered in a flavorful broth. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this soup is both satisfying and nutritious.

Essential Ingredients

To prepare this delicious soup, you’ll need:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 bell peppers, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama (or your favorite Cajun seasoning)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 32 ounces beef broth
• 1 cup rice
• Shredded cheese, for topping

Preparation Steps

1. Brown the Beef and Vegetables:
   • In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, cook the ground beef, diced bell peppers, onion, Slap Ya Mama seasoning, black pepper, and red pepper flakes over medium heat until the beef is browned.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for 2 additional minutes until fragrant.
   • Drain any excess fat from the pot and return the mixture to heat.
2. Add Liquids and Rice:
   • Stir in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and rice.
   • Mix well to combine all ingredients.
3. Simmer to Perfection:
   • Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
   • Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and tender.
4. Serve and Garnish:
   • Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with shredded cheese.
   • Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or a side salad.

Health Benefits

• High in Protein: Ground beef provides essential protein to support muscle health.
• Rich in Fiber: Bell peppers and tomatoes contribute fiber for digestive wellness.
• Nutrient-Dense: Loaded with vitamins A, C, and K from bell peppers and tomatoes.
• Easily Adjustable: Can be made with lean ground turkey for a lighter option.

Serving Suggestions

• With Bread: Serve alongside a warm, crusty baguette or buttery biscuits.
• With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad balances the heartiness of the soup.
• Topped with Cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan all enhance the flavor.
• Spiced Up: Add hot sauce or extra red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• As a Meal Prep Option: Store in portioned containers for easy lunches or dinners.

Creative Variations

• Swap the Protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage instead of beef.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace rice with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal.
• Vegetarian Twist: Substitute beef with lentils or black beans and use vegetable broth.
• Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded cheese directly into the soup for a creamier texture.
• Slow Cooker Method: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for an effortless meal.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Cool the soup completely before freezing in portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

Pro Tips

• Use Fresh Bell Peppers: They add a crisp, vibrant flavor to the soup.
• Let the Soup Sit: It tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
• Adjust the Rice: If you prefer a brothier soup, reduce the rice amount slightly.
• Add More Veggies: Throw in zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.
• Thicker Soup? Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce liquid.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the sauté function for the beef and onions, then cook on manual high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a quick release.

2. Can I use uncooked rice in the soup?
Yes! The rice will cook in the broth as the soup simmers, absorbing the delicious flavors.

3. How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?
If you plan to store leftovers, cook the rice separately and add it before serving.

4. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely! Just skip the cheese topping or use a dairy-free alternative.

5. What’s the best way to reheat frozen soup?
Thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stovetop over medium heat.

This Stuffed Bell Pepper Soup is a cozy, delicious, and nutritious meal that’s easy to make and even easier to love. Whether served for a quick weeknight dinner or meal-prepped for the week ahead, it’s a flavorful dish that never disappoints!

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