Hearty Stuffed Green Bell Pepper Soup
Indulge in the comforting warmth of our Hearty Stuffed Green Bell Pepper Soup, a delightful twist on classic stuffed peppers. This savory soup melds the robust flavors of ground beef, fresh green bell peppers, and zesty tomatoes into a rich, satisfying broth, elevated by the heartiness of long-grain rice. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, this soup is not only delicious but also easy to make in large batches. Each spoonful is packed with the goodness of wholesome ingredients and the comforting taste of home. Gather around the table and share this delicious meal with family and friends.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
ground beef
2 lbs (browned and drained)
water
2 quarts (used for the soup base)
diced tomatoes
28 ounces (canned, undrained)
tomato sauce
29 ounces (canned)
long-grain rice
2 cups (cooked (1/2 cup uncooked))
green bell peppers
2 cups (chopped (about 2 large peppers))
beef bouillon cubes
2 (used for added flavor)
brown sugar
2 tablespoons (packed)
salt
2 teaspoons (to taste)
pepper
1 teaspoon (to taste)
Instructions
1
In a large 6-quart saucepan or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until it's fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
2
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the tomato sauce, then add the water and bring the mixture to a boil.
3
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the chopped green bell peppers, beef bouillon cubes, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and the cooked rice.
4
Cover the pot and allow the soup to simmer for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peppers are tender and the flavors meld together.
5
Serve hot and enjoy a hearty bowl of comfort food!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hearty Stuffed Green Bell Pepper Soup?
It is a savory and comforting soup that provides a twist on classic stuffed peppers, featuring ground beef, rice, and green peppers in a tomato-based broth.
What are the primary ingredients in this soup?
The main ingredients include 2 lbs of ground beef, 2 quarts of water, canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cooked long-grain rice, and chopped green bell peppers.
How much ground beef does this recipe require?
The recipe calls for 2 lbs of ground beef, which should be browned and drained before adding other ingredients.
Can I use a different meat besides ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner version of the soup.
What type of rice should I use for the best results?
The recipe recommends using long-grain white rice that has been previously cooked.
Should the rice be cooked before adding it to the pot?
Yes, the recipe specifies using 2 cups of cooked rice (which is approximately 1/2 cup of uncooked rice).
How many green bell peppers do I need to chop?
You will need approximately 2 cups of chopped green bell peppers, which is about 2 large peppers.
Can I use red or yellow bell peppers instead of green?
While green peppers offer the traditional flavor, you can use red, yellow, or orange bell peppers for a sweeter taste.
Do I need to drain the canned diced tomatoes?
No, you should use the diced tomatoes undrained, including their juice for added flavor and liquid.
What size pot is recommended for this recipe?
A large 6-quart saucepan or a Dutch oven is recommended to accommodate the volume of the soup.
Why is brown sugar added to the soup?
Two tablespoons of packed brown sugar are added to balance the acidity of the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes.
Can the brown sugar be omitted?
Yes, if you prefer a less sweet or more savory profile, you can reduce or omit the brown sugar.
How do I incorporate the beef bouillon?
Add two beef bouillon cubes directly into the mixture once the liquids have been brought to a boil.
How long does the soup need to simmer?
The soup should simmer, covered, for 30 to 40 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the peppers to become tender.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this soup is ideal for meal prep as it is easy to make in large batches and the flavors often improve the next day.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the meat first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes, use the sauté function for the meat, then add remaining ingredients and use the manual/soup setting for 5-10 minutes.
How many people does this recipe serve?
Based on the ingredients, this recipe typically serves 8 to 10 people.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe is gluten-free provided that you ensure your beef bouillon cubes are certified gluten-free.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any remaining soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze Hearty Stuffed Green Bell Pepper Soup?
Yes, it freezes well, though the rice may absorb more liquid upon thawing; you may need to add a splash of water when reheating.
What should I do if the soup gets too thick?
The rice will naturally absorb liquid over time. If it becomes too thick, simply stir in a little extra water or beef broth.
What are some suggested side dishes for this soup?
It pairs perfectly with crusty bread, a side garden salad, or even garlic knots.
Can I add extra vegetables to the recipe?
Absolutely. Chopped onions, garlic, or celery would make excellent additions during the browning of the beef.
How can I make the soup spicier?
To add heat, you can add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce.
Is this a beginner-friendly recipe?
Yes, it is very straightforward and requires basic cooking techniques like browning meat and simmering.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but ensure the brown rice is fully cooked before adding it to the soup, as it takes longer to cook than white rice.
What gives the soup its 'hearty' texture?
The combination of 2 lbs of ground beef and 2 cups of rice provides a thick, filling, and satisfying consistency.
Do I need to season the soup beyond what is listed?
The recipe includes salt, pepper, and bouillon for seasoning, but you can always adjust the salt and pepper to your personal taste.
What is the best way to reheat the soup?
Reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally.