Stuffed Bell Pepper Soup

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of stuffed bell pepper soup. It’s hearty, rich with flavor, and carries all the nostalgic notes of the traditional stuffed pepper dish—without the extra prep work. This soup is a family favorite across many homes, especially during colder months, thanks to its savory ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and perfectly seasoned broth.

Stuffed bell pepper soup combines simple ingredients like lean ground beef, fresh bell peppers, onion, garlic, Cajun seasoning, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and rice to create a balanced and satisfying meal. It’s an excellent way to use pantry staples while providing a nutrient-rich meal that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re looking for a one-pot dinner idea or something to prep ahead for the week, this soup ticks all the boxes.

Interestingly, this dish draws inspiration from traditional bell pepper recipes, but turns it into a much more convenient, slurp-worthy form. According to Wikipedia, bell peppers come in various colors like red, green, yellow, and orange—each contributing a slightly different flavor and nutrient profile. When paired with protein-packed ground beef and long-grain white rice, the result is a warm, hearty soup that’s both filling and delicious.

Meal planners and food lovers will enjoy discovering variations of this soup on platforms like Pinterest where meal prep ideas for soups are trending. With just one pot and about 45 minutes, you can whip up a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.

🧑‍🍳 Origins and inspiration behind the recipe

The roots of stuffed bell pepper soup can be traced back to the classic stuffed pepper—a dish loved in many cultures. Traditionally, bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with seasoned ground meat, rice, and vegetables. This method, while delicious, can be time-consuming, especially for busy home cooks.

That’s where the genius of stuffed pepper soup comes in—it delivers the same flavors with a fraction of the effort. This variation removes the need to stuff each pepper, instead chopping and simmering them directly into the broth. You still get the slight crunch of pepper, the heartiness of beef and rice, and the warming effect of a tomato-based broth.

What makes this particular version even more flavorful is the use of Cajun seasoning, which brings a subtle Southern kick. As noted in Wikipedia’s entry on Cajun cuisine, Cajun dishes are known for their bold seasoning profiles and rustic preparation styles. Combined with the long-grain rice found in most pantries, as explained in this article on rice, the dish becomes a fusion of homestyle comfort and Louisiana flair.

If you’re inspired to try variations, Pinterest boards offer low-carb options and creative spins that include additional vegetables or dairy-free alternatives. This makes the soup highly adaptable for various dietary needs.

🌟 Benefits of making stuffed bell pepper soup

There are several reasons why home cooks return to stuffed bell pepper soup again and again:

• One-pot simplicity: Everything comes together in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze.

• Budget-friendly: Uses affordable staples like ground beef, canned tomatoes, and rice.

• Nutrient-rich: Bell peppers are high in vitamins A and C, while beef provides protein and iron.

• Meal prep ready: This soup holds well in the fridge or freezer, perfect for batch cooking.

• Family-friendly: It’s flavorful without being overly spicy, making it great for kids and adults alike.

For those with dietary concerns, this soup is easily modified. Want it low-carb? Swap rice for riced cauliflower. Need it dairy-free? Simply skip the cheese topping or use a plant-based substitute. Looking for more healthy soup options? Check out this Pinterest collection full of wholesome comfort food recipes.

🛒 Full list of ingredients with substitutions

To make this stuffed bell pepper soup recipe, you’ll need the following:

• 1 lb ground beef – Substitute with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner or vegetarian version.

• 2 bell peppers – 1 red, 1 green, diced. You can mix colors for a sweeter flavor.

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning – Use homemade or store-bought. Adjust based on heat preference.

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes – Optional for heat.

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami depth.

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 4 cups beef broth, preferably low sodium – You can substitute with vegetable broth.

• ¾ cup long-grain white rice – Brown rice or quinoa can be used for added fiber.

• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese – Optional, or substitute with plant-based cheese for dairy-free.

This recipe is naturally gluten-free (verify your Worcestershire sauce brand) and easily adaptable for various lifestyles. The use of long-grain rice ensures a pleasant texture that holds up well in the soup, unlike short-grain rice which can get mushy. According to Wikipedia, long-grain varieties remain fluffy and separate when cooked, which works perfectly for soup-based dishes.

🍲 Kitchen tools you’ll need

Before you begin cooking, gather these tools for a smooth experience:

• Large Dutch oven or soup pot – Ideal for even cooking and simmering.

• Cutting board and sharp knife – For prepping vegetables.

• Measuring cups and spoons – Precision matters.

• Wooden spoon or spatula – To stir without scratching the pot.

• Ladle – For easy serving.

These basic tools ensure that your preparation is seamless and cleanup is quick. Using a Dutch oven is recommended for retaining heat and enhancing flavors during simmering.

🫑 How to choose the best bell peppers and ground beef

The quality of your stuffed bell pepper soup starts with the ingredients. Here’s how to pick the best:

Bell Peppers:

• Look for firm, glossy skin without wrinkles.

• Red peppers are sweeter, green ones are slightly bitter. Using both adds balance.

• Avoid soft spots or blemishes.

Ground Beef:

• Use 85% lean for a balance of flavor and lower fat.

• Grass-fed or organic options offer cleaner taste and are hormone-free.

• Ground turkey or plant-based crumbles are excellent for alternative diets.

Understanding your main ingredients helps in building flavor from the ground up. If you’re curious about the differences in meat textures and fat ratios, you can read more on Wikipedia’s page on ground beef.

👨‍🍳 Step-by-step cooking instructions

Here’s how to bring this soul-warming dish together:

1. Sauté the base: In a large Dutch oven, cook 1 lb ground beef over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and 2 diced bell peppers. Season with 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning, ½ tsp black pepper, and ¼ tsp red pepper flakes. Cook until beef is browned and vegetables are tender.

2. Add garlic: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Drain excess fat: If needed, drain the grease and return everything to the pot.

4. Incorporate liquids and rice: Add 1 can diced tomatoes, 1 can crushed tomatoes, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 4 cups beef broth, and ¾ cup rice. Stir well.

5. Simmer: Bring the soup to a gentle boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 25–30 minutes until rice is fully cooked.

6. Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with 1 cup shredded cheese. Serve hot.

The rice will absorb some of the broth as it cooks, thickening the soup naturally. This creates a rich, hearty texture without any thickeners. For visual inspiration, check out cheesy soup toppings on Pinterest for presentation ideas.

🧊 Storage and reheating tips

This soup stores beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers and meal prepping:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Let cool completely, then freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or microwave until hot. Add a splash of broth if it has thickened too much.

Avoid freezing with cheese added—always add toppings fresh when reheating.

🔄 Recipe variations to try

Customize your stuffed bell pepper soup to match your dietary needs or spice preferences:

• Vegetarian: Replace beef with lentils or plant-based meat.

• Low-carb: Use riced cauliflower instead of white rice (try this low-carb version).

• Extra spicy: Add diced jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes.

• Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.

• More veggies: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or kale for added nutrition.

These variations keep the recipe exciting and versatile. For more ideas, browse one-pot dinner inspiration.

🍞 What to serve with stuffed bell pepper soup

Complement your soup with one of these simple sides:

• Crusty bread or garlic toast – Great for dipping and soaking up the broth.

• Grilled cheese sandwich – Especially good with spicy variations.

• Mixed greens salad – Light and refreshing contrast.

If you’re looking for side dish ideas, explore Pinterest’s meal inspiration for more creative pairings that balance the soup’s richness.

❓ Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but it takes longer to cook (about 40–45 minutes). Parboil it separately if short on time.

How spicy is this recipe?
It has a mild kick. Adjust the Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to taste.

Can I use leftover cooked rice?
Absolutely! Stir it in during the last 10 minutes to avoid overcooking.

Can this be made in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients except rice. Cook on low for 6–7 hours, add rice for the last hour.

Is the soup freezer-friendly?
Yes, but freeze before adding cheese for best texture. Store for up to 3 months.

How do I make it dairy-free?
Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free blend.

Does the rice soak up too much broth overnight?
It may thicken. Add extra broth or water when reheating to adjust consistency.

Print