Stuffed Pepper Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food in a Bowl
With just a handful of fresh ingredients and pantry staples, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Each spoonful offers a harmonious balance of savory sausage, tender ground beef, sweet and crisp bell peppers, aromatic garlic, and perfectly cooked rice. It’s not just a soup—it’s a hug in a bowl.
Ingredients and Their Role in the Recipe
- ½ lb Italian sausage: Adds a savory, slightly spiced depth to the soup, creating the foundational flavor.
- ½ lb lean ground beef: Provides richness and body, complementing the Italian sausage perfectly.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth, balancing the richness of the meats.
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped: Brings a fresh, slightly bitter crunch that brightens the soup.
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and a vibrant color to make the dish visually appealing.
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped: Infuses the soup with an aromatic punch and enhances all other flavors.
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth: Forms a rich, hearty base that complements the meat and vegetables.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: Adds complexity and balances the beefy flavors, keeping the soup light yet flavorful.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can salsa tomatoes: Provides acidity, sweetness, and a subtle hint of spice, perfectly echoing stuffed pepper flavors.
- ¾ cup raw rice (jasmine or long-grain): Adds body and texture, absorbing the flavors of the broth and vegetables.
- Kosher salt: Enhances every ingredient, balancing sweetness, acidity, and richness.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and complexity to the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot or heavy-bottomed casserole, cook ½ lb Italian sausage and ½ lb ground beef over medium heat. Break the meat apart as it cooks to ensure even browning and maximum flavor development. Browning the meat first builds the foundation of the soup’s savory depth.
- Sauté the Vegetables: While the meat is browning, add 1 finely chopped onion, 1 green bell pepper, and 1 red bell pepper. Stir occasionally, letting the vegetables soften and release their natural sweetness. During the last minute, add 3 cloves of chopped garlic, stirring constantly to prevent burning and to infuse the mixture with aromatic flavors.
- Drain Excess Fat: Once the meat and vegetables are perfectly browned, drain any excess fat. This keeps the broth from becoming greasy while retaining all the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.
- Simmer the Broth: Add 4 cups beef broth, 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth, and 1 can salsa tomatoes. Stir to combine, then bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes until the bell peppers are tender but still vibrant, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add the Rice: Stir in ¾ cup raw rice, ensuring each grain is coated with the broth. Cover the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed the flavorful liquid, creating a hearty, satisfying texture.
- Season and Adjust: Taste the soup and add kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Seasoning is key to balancing all the savory, sweet, and aromatic elements in the soup.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately. For extra flair, garnish with fresh parsley, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream. Each serving is a comforting, flavor-packed experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why This Recipe is Loved
Our Stuffed Pepper Soup is beloved because it perfectly captures the essence of classic stuffed peppers in a comforting, easy-to-make soup. Every bite delivers:
- Rich, layered flavors: The combination of Italian sausage, ground beef, and garlic creates a savory depth that warms the soul.
- Perfectly cooked vegetables: Red and green peppers provide texture, color, and a natural sweetness that balances the richness of the meats.
- Hearty and satisfying: Rice absorbs the broth’s flavor, making each spoonful filling and comforting.
- Easy one-pot preparation: Minimal cleanup and simple steps make this perfect for busy nights or meal prep.
Pro Tips for the Best Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Use a combination of broths: Mixing beef and chicken or vegetable broth adds complexity without overpowering the other flavors.
- Don’t overcook the rice: Keep an eye on it for the perfect al dente texture that absorbs the soup’s flavors without turning mushy.
- Browning the meat: Take your time to brown the sausage and ground beef well; this step builds flavor that no seasoning can replace.
- Fresh herbs: Add a pinch of fresh thyme or parsley to enhance freshness and aroma.
- Leftovers taste even better: Flavors deepen overnight, making this soup an excellent make-ahead meal.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete and satisfying meal, serve your Stuffed Pepper Soup with:
- Crusty garlic bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up every drop of the savory broth.
- A simple side salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese for an extra layer of richness.
- A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess and tang.
Conclusion: A Simple, Flavor-Packed Comfort Dish
This Stuffed Pepper Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of bold flavors, hearty textures, and easy comfort. With tender meat, aromatic vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice in a savory broth, it’s a dish that brings warmth to any table. Its simplicity makes it accessible for any home cook, yet its depth of flavor ensures that every bite is unforgettable. Whether for a busy weeknight, a cozy family dinner, or a make-ahead meal prep option, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Don’t wait—bring the irresistible flavors of stuffed peppers into your bowl tonight and enjoy a comforting, satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for more. Stuffed Pepper Soup is proof that the best comfort food is both simple to make and impossible to resist.