Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe
Transform your favorite stuffed peppers into a delicious and hearty soup that the whole family will love!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
- 3 bell peppers (diced, preferably red, yellow, and orange)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 32 ounces Zoup! Good, Really Good® Beef Bone Broth
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes (undrained)
- 14 ounces diced tomatoes
- 1 cup long grain rice (uncooked)
- 2 teaspoons sugar
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot, add the ground beef. Cook until it begins to brown, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Add the diced bell peppers, onion, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the bell peppers are soft, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Pour in the Zoup! Good, Really Good® Beef Bone Broth, crushed tomatoes, and undrained diced tomatoes. Stir in the uncooked rice and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer (look for consistent pea-sized bubbles) and cover. Cook for 20 minutes or until the rice is soft, stirring regularly to prevent sticking.
- Taste the soup. If it tastes slightly bitter, add 1 to 2 teaspoons of sugar to balance the acidity from the tomatoes. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 2 cups
Calories: 413
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 54mg
Sodium: 876mg
Potassium: 939mg
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 12g
Vitamin A: 2245IU
Vitamin C: 96mg
Calcium: 128mg
Iron: 5mg
Why Choose Stuffed Pepper Soup?
The Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup is not just a comforting dish; it brings together the best elements of a classic stuffed pepper while offering a warm, inviting bowl of goodness. This recipe is perfect for families looking to enjoy a nutritious meal that is both filling and flavorful. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, this soup provides essential nutrients, making it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to boost their vegetable intake. The combination of bell peppers, tomatoes, and lean ground beef ensures that each serving is packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, providing a well-rounded meal.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the greatest advantages of the Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup is its versatility. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on what you have available at home or to cater to your family s preferences. For instance, if you re looking to make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with lentils or quinoa. You can also mix in different types of bell peppers or even add additional vegetables like zucchini or corn for extra flavor and nutrition. The soup can also be made spicier by adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a kick of heat.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers, this soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to four days. To keep it fresh, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it will last for up to three months. When you re ready to eat, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as usual. This makes it a perfect meal prep option for busy weeknights!
Pairing Suggestions
To make your meal even more satisfying, consider pairing your Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup with some delicious sides. A crispy green salad with a light vinaigrette works wonderfully to balance the richness of the soup. Alternatively, crusty bread or garlic bread can be the perfect accompaniment, allowing you to soak up every delicious drop. For those who enjoy a little indulgence, serve the soup with a side of cheesy quesadillas or grilled cheese sandwiches for a delightful comfort food experience that the whole family will adore.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
This Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup is not only delicious but also loaded with health benefits. Bell peppers are rich in antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system. The inclusion of tomatoes provides lycopene, known for its potential heart health benefits. Additionally, using lean ground beef in moderation ensures that you re getting a good source of protein without excessive fat. The addition of rice provides a source of complex carbohydrates, making this soup a well-rounded meal that can sustain your energy levels throughout the day.
