Stuffed Pepper Soup

Stuffed pepper soup is a comforting and hearty dish that brings all the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers into a warm, spoonable form. It’s loaded with tender ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich tomato base, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
• 2 large bell peppers (one red, one green), diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Add the diced onion and bell peppers to the pot with the beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add Liquids and Seasonings:
   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add the dried basil, oregano, smoked paprika (if using), and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer the Soup:
   • Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Add Cooked Rice:
   • Stir in the cooked rice and let it heat through for a few minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
7. Tips:
   • For a low-carb version, replace rice with cauliflower rice.
   • Feel free to add cheese on top, like shredded mozzarella or cheddar, for an extra layer of richness.

   This stuffed pepper soup is a perfect blend of savory flavors, making it a wonderful dish for chilly evenings. Enjoy!