Stuffed Pepper Soup

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Stuffed Pepper Soup

Introduction

Stuffed Pepper Soup is the ultimate comfort meal for those who love the hearty flavors of traditional stuffed peppers but crave the simplicity of a one-pot dish. Combining savory Italian sausage, lean ground beef, sweet bell peppers, onions, garlic, and rice simmered in a flavorful broth, this soup delivers all the taste of classic stuffed peppers—without the hassle of stuffing and baking. It’s hearty, warming, and perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep days when you need something satisfying and stress-free.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Stuffed peppers (peperoni ripieni in Italian or golubtsy in Eastern Europe) have deep culinary roots across many cultures, from the Mediterranean to Eastern Europe. The concept of hollowing out peppers and filling them with meat, grains, and spices symbolizes resourcefulness and family-style cooking—making the most of simple, wholesome ingredients. Stuffed Pepper Soup evolved as a creative American adaptation, transforming a traditional baked dish into an easy, hearty soup. It embodies the modern comfort food philosophy: flavorful, nourishing, and effortless, bringing together the best of old-world tradition and new-age convenience.

Ingredients Quantity

  • ½ pound Italian sausage
  • ½ pound lean ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can salsa-style diced tomatoes
  • ¾ cup raw jasmine rice (or long-grain rice)
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Additions

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning for herbal notes
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for mild heat
  • 1 cup corn kernels or black beans for added texture and nutrition
  • ½ cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes for extra thickness
  • A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving

Tips for Success

  1. Brown the meats separately if you want more defined flavor from the sausage and beef.
  2. Use fresh bell peppers for the best texture—they should still have a bit of bite after simmering.
  3. Add rice later in the cooking process if you prefer it firm; add earlier for a softer, thicker soup.
  4. Taste before seasoning—broths and sausage can add plenty of salt already.
  5. Simmer gently to develop rich, layered flavors without overcooking the peppers.
  6. For meal prep, store the rice separately and add it to individual servings to prevent sogginess.

Instructions

  1. Brown the Meat
    • In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the Italian sausage and ground beef.
    • Cook until browned, breaking the meat apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if needed.
  2. Add Vegetables and Aromatics
    • Stir in the chopped onion, green pepper, red pepper, and garlic.
    • Sauté for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the garlic is fragrant.
  3. Add Liquids and Seasoning
    • Pour in the beef broth, chicken or vegetable broth, and salsa tomatoes.
    • Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
  4. Add Rice and Simmer
    • Stir in the raw rice.
    • Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the soup has thickened.
  5. Adjust and Serve
    • Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
    • Serve hot, optionally garnished with shredded cheese, fresh parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil.

Description

Stuffed Pepper Soup brings the essence of baked stuffed peppers into a warm, comforting bowl. The savory blend of beef, sausage, and rice creates a rich, hearty base, while the peppers and tomatoes add sweetness and brightness. The broth, infused with garlic and spices, ties everything together into a perfectly balanced, soul-soothing dish. Each spoonful captures the homey nostalgia of a classic comfort meal with all the ease of a weeknight soup.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximately 1 ½ cups)

  • Calories: 390 kcal
  • Protein: 26 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fat: 19 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
  • Sodium: 750 mg
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugars: 5 g

Conclusion

Stuffed Pepper Soup is the perfect combination of convenience and comfort. With its hearty texture, savory aroma, and wholesome ingredients, it’s a dish that warms both body and spirit. Whether you make it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a cozy weekend, this soup promises satisfaction in every spoonful.

Recommendation

Serve this soup with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a side green salad to complete the meal. It also pairs beautifully with a light tomato-cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld, making it ideal for reheating or freezing.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

For a lighter version, substitute the sausage with ground turkey or chicken, and use brown rice or cauliflower rice for extra fiber and fewer carbs. Opt for low-sodium broth and lean meats to reduce sodium and fat content. You can also add extra vegetables—like zucchini, spinach, or carrots—to increase nutrients and color. This balanced twist keeps all the hearty, savory comfort you love while nourishing your body with every delicious bite.

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