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If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful meal that comes together quickly without a fuss, you absolutely have to try this Easy One-Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe. It perfectly captures all the cozy, familiar tastes of stuffed peppers but in a warm, hearty soup version that’s ready in just under an hour. Imagine tender bell peppers, savory ground meat, fragrant spices, and fluffy rice all mingling in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. This recipe turns dinner into a celebration of colors and flavors that everyone at the table will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients come together beautifully in this recipe. Each component has a vital role, from adding texture and aroma to balancing the flavors just right.
- 2-3 cups Diced Bell Peppers: Mix red, yellow, and green for a vibrant, colorful soup that tastes as great as it looks.
- 1 pound Ground Meat: Choose chicken, beef, or turkey depending on your preference; it adds heartiness and protein.
- 1 medium Onion: Finely chopped to build a foundational sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 3 cloves Garlic: Minced for that irresistible aromatic punch.
- 15 ounces Tomato Sauce: A rich base that brings acidity and moisture to the soup.
- 4 cups Low-Sodium Vegetable Broth: Keeps the dish light while infusing it with subtle savory notes.
- 1 cup Uncooked Rice: Jasmine or basmati works well; it soaks up the flavors and adds comforting texture.
- 0.5 teaspoon Paprika: Adds a smoky warmth without overpowering the soup.
- 0.5 teaspoon Cumin: Provides earthiness that complements the meat and peppers perfectly.
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper: For a gentle kick and seasoning balance.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Adjust to taste; essential for pulling all flavors together.
- 1 handful Fresh Parsley or Cilantro: Chopped and optional for a fresh, herbal finish.
How to Make Easy One-Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe
Step 1: Start with sautéing the aromatics
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it until it becomes translucent and tender, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step develops a sweet, mellow base flavor that carries throughout the soup.
Step 2: Add garlic and ground meat
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn! Then, add the ground meat and brown it thoroughly, breaking it apart as it cooks so it’s evenly cooked in about 5 to 7 minutes. Browning the meat adds rich depth to every spoonful.
Step 3: Toss in the diced bell peppers
Stir in your colorful diced bell peppers and allow them to sauté with the meat and onions for around 5 minutes. This lets the peppers soften slightly while keeping their bright flavor and giving a touch of sweetness to your soup.
Step 4: Pour in tomato sauce and simmer
Pour the tomato sauce into the pot and let everything simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes. This step blends the tomato’s tanginess with the sautéed ingredients, unifying the flavors beautifully.
Step 5: Add broth and rice
Now add the vegetable broth and stir well, then pour in the uncooked rice, making sure it’s fully submerged. The broth and rice create the soup’s hearty base, absorbing all the luscious flavors as they cook.
Step 6: Season and cook
Sprinkle in paprika, cumin, black pepper, and salt, then give everything a good stir to combine. Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. This is when the rice softens and the flavors meld perfectly.
Step 7: Final touch and serve
Before serving, check that the rice is tender and taste to adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve your soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if you like a bright herbaceous note to finish it off.
How to Serve Easy One-Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro adds a lovely pop of green and a fresh herbal lift. You might also enjoy a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess and richness.
Side Dishes
This soup packs so much heartiness on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some crusty garlic bread. These sides add texture contrast and make the meal feel complete and inviting.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bell peppers to echo the classic stuffed pepper vibe. Or ladle it over baked potatoes for a comforting, customizable dinner bowl that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy One-Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for busy weeknight meals or quick office lunches.
Freezing
This soup freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When you want a nourishing meal in a flash, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftover soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. You can also microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use any type of ground meat for this soup?
Absolutely! Ground chicken, beef, or turkey each work wonderfully and will slightly change the flavor profile, so feel free to use what you prefer or have on hand.
Is it necessary to use uncooked rice?
Yes, uncooked rice is essential because it cooks directly in the soup and absorbs all the delicious flavors, thickening the broth for a satisfying texture.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely. Simply omit the ground meat and use vegetable broth. You could add diced mushrooms or cooked lentils for protein and heartiness instead.
How spicy is this soup?
This Easy One-Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe has a gentle warmth from the paprika and cumin but is not spicy hot. You can always add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you like it spicier.
What if I want to use brown rice?
Brown rice can be used, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust cooking accordingly by simmering an additional 20 minutes and adding extra broth if needed.
Final Thoughts
This Easy One-Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe is truly a weeknight hero—quick, comforting, and bursting with fresh flavors that feel like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal for your family or want to impress friends with minimal effort, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple. Give it a go and enjoy every delicious spoonful!
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