Easy Stuffed Pepper Soup delivers all the comforting flavors of classic stuffed peppers in one hearty bowl. Made with seasoned ground beef, tender bell peppers, tomatoes, rice, and a savory tomato broth, this one-pot meal is easy enough for busy weeknights and delicious enough for the whole family.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6
- Course: Main Course, Soup
- Cuisine: American
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground sirloin (or lean ground beef)
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup finely diced onion
- 1 (29-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14-ounce) can chicken broth
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon dried sage
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups water (for cooking the rice)
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Fresh basil
Equipment Needed
- Large stockpot or Dutch oven
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Instructions
Step 1 – Brown the Beef
Heat a large stockpot over medium heat.
Add the ground sirloin and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles.
Drain any excess grease.
Step 2 – Cook the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper.
Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Avoid browning the vegetables.
Step 3 – Build the Soup
Stir in:
- Diced tomatoes
- Tomato sauce
- Chicken broth
- Dried thyme
- Dried sage
Season with salt and black pepper.
Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
Step 4 – Simmer
Reduce the heat to low.
Cover and simmer for 30–45 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the flavors have blended together.
Step 5 – Cook the Rice
While the soup simmers, bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
Add the rice and cook according to the package directions until tender.
Drain if necessary.
Step 6 – Finish the Soup
Stir the cooked rice into the soup.
Cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 7 – Serve
Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, shredded cheddar cheese, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs perfectly with:
- Garlic bread
- Dinner rolls
- Grilled cheese sandwiches
- Fresh green salad
- Cornbread
Storage
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
The rice will absorb liquid as it sits, so add a splash of broth when reheating.
Freezer
Cool completely before freezing.
Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 6 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Tips for Success
- Brown the beef well for richer flavor.
- Use red, yellow, or orange bell peppers for a sweeter taste.
- Cook the rice separately to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Add extra broth when reheating leftovers.
- For a healthier version, use brown rice or ground turkey.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients except the rice to the slow cooker. Cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours, then stir in cooked rice before serving.
Can I use ground turkey?
Absolutely. Ground turkey or ground chicken both work well for a lighter version.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, but for the best texture, freeze the soup without the rice and add freshly cooked rice when serving.
Can I make it spicy?
Yes! Add crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Stuffed Pepper Soup is a cozy, hearty dinner that transforms all the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers into an easy one-pot meal. Loaded with tender beef, colorful bell peppers, tomatoes, and rice in a rich, savory broth, it’s perfect for meal prep, chilly evenings, or anytime you’re craving comforting homemade soup. It’s simple to make, freezer-friendly, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.
