Introduction to Cozy Stuffed Pepper Soup
When you're looking for that perfect dish to wrap yourself in after a long day, look no further than cozy stuffed pepper soup. This delightful blend of savory ingredients delivers warmth and comfort in every spoonful. With its harmonious mix of ground beef, fresh peppers, and aromatic herbs, this soup is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare.
Why Cozy Stuffed Pepper Soup is the Perfect Weeknight Meal
Imagine this: after a hectic day at work, you step into your kitchen and within minutes, your home is filled with the inviting aroma of simmering spices and hearty vegetables. That's the beauty of cozy stuffed pepper soup. The simplicity of its preparation means you can have a nourishing meal ready in about 30 minutes or less.
Plus, it’s versatile! You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spices to match your family's taste preferences. For those managing a busy schedule, this soup is a fantastic make-ahead option—perfect for leftovers that taste even better the next day.
So, whether you're cooking for one or a crowd, make some cozy stuffed pepper soup tonight and enjoy a comforting bowlful that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Want to learn how to whip it up? Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process!
Ingredients for Cozy Stuffed Pepper Soup
Crafting the perfect cozy stuffed pepper soup starts with some essential ingredients that will make this dish truly delicious. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential ingredients list
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 tablespoon olive oil, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 small yellow onion (chopped, about 1 cup)
- 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans petite diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can low-sodium beef broth
- 2 ½ tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white or brown rice
- Optional: Cheddar or mozzarella cheese for serving
Creating a warm bowl of cozy stuffed pepper soup will be a delightful experience!
Optional ingredients for customization
Don’t be afraid to personalize your soup! Here are some optional ingredients to consider:
- Swap out ground beef for turkey if you want a leaner option.
- Toss in some black beans for extra protein and a flavor boost.
- Add corn for a sweet crunch that complements the peppers beautifully.
- Spice it up with a dash of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a kick!
Each addition can transform your soup, making it uniquely yours. Get creative and enjoy the process!
Step-by-step preparation of Cozy Stuffed Pepper Soup
Getting cozy with a warm bowl of stuffed pepper soup is one of the joys of autumn. It's hearty, delicious, and packed with flavor—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend meal. Ready to get cooking? Let's dive into the steps!
Gather your ingredients
Before we start cooking, let’s make sure you have everything you need. Here's a quick rundown of the ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 tablespoon olive oil, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans petite diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can low-sodium beef broth
- 2 ½ tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white or brown rice (your choice)
- Cheddar or mozzarella cheese, for serving (optional)
Make sure to have all these ingredients before moving to the next step! You can find fresh produce at any local grocery store or farmer's market.
Sauté the ground beef
In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the ground beef. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper! Cook the beef, stirring occasionally and breaking it apart until it’s nicely browned. To keep things tidy, drain the cooked beef on a paper towel-lined plate and set it aside.
Cook the vegetables
Now it’s time for the colorful veggies! Using the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, followed by the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Sauté these beauties for about three minutes until they're just tender. Add your minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds. This step really ups the flavor profile of your cozy stuffed pepper soup!
Combine tomatoes, broth, and seasonings
It’s all coming together! Slowly pour in the petite diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Don’t forget to return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Sprinkle in the chopped parsley, basil, oregano, and season with more salt and pepper to taste. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil before reducing the heat. Cover and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
Simmer the soup to perfection
During this time, let all those ingredients meld together and create a heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen. This is the moment where you can really taste the love! Stir occasionally to ensure nothing is sticking to the bottom.
Cook the rice and add it to the soup
While your cozy stuffed pepper soup is simmering away, prepare your rice according to the package instructions. Once the soup is done, stir in your cooked rice. The amount of rice can be adjusted based on whether you like your soup thicker or thinner. If you plan to have leftovers, it’s a good idea to store the extra rice separately to avoid a mushy texture the next day.
And voila! Serve your warm soup in bowls, topped with some cheese and extra parsley if you like. Enjoy the comfort and warmth that this recipe brings to your table!
Variations on Cozy Stuffed Pepper Soup
Vegetarian Options
Eager to enjoy a cozy stuffed pepper soup without meat? No problem! Simply substitute the ground beef with delicious plant-based options like lentils or quinoa for added protein. You can also bulk up the soup with more veggies—think zucchini, corn, or mushrooms. Each addition brings a unique flavor and texture, ensuring every spoonful is hearty and satisfying!
Spicy Twist with Jalapeños
For those who crave a kick, elevate your cozy stuffed pepper soup by tossing in some jalapeños. Dicing just a few and adding them with the other veggies will impart a gentle heat that complements the sweetness of the peppers. Don’t forget, you can control the spice level: remove the seeds for milder flakes or leave them in for a fervent flare!
Whichever variation you choose, these tweaks keep your cozy stuffed pepper soup feeling fresh and exciting!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Cozy Stuffed Pepper Soup
Freezing and Reheating Tips
You can enjoy this cozy stuffed pepper soup anytime by freezing it for later! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.
Remember, it's best to store the rice separately to maintain its texture. Add it each time you serve a bowl for a fresh and delicious experience! For more freezing tips, check out this article here.
Serving suggestions for Cozy Stuffed Pepper Soup
When it comes to enhancing your cozy stuffed pepper soup, a few delicious toppings can take it to the next level. Here are some tasty suggestions to elevate your bowl:
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar or mozzarella adds a creamy richness. Just sprinkle some on top while the soup is still hot for extra melty goodness.
- Fresh herbs: A dash of chopped parsley or basil can brighten up the flavors.
- Avocado: Diced avocado provides a creamy texture that complements the soup's heartiness.
- Croutons: For added crunch, toss some homemade or store-bought croutons on top.
- Hot sauce: If you like a kick, a few drops of your favorite hot sauce can add the perfect amount of heat.
Try pairing this soup with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a comforting meal!
Time breakdown for Cozy Stuffed Pepper Soup
Preparation time
Getting everything ready for your cozy stuffed pepper soup will take about 15 minutes. Chop the veggies, measure out the spices, and gather your ingredients—this part can be a breeze!
Cooking time
Once you're all set, the cooking process itself will take about 30 minutes. This includes browning the beef, sautéing the veggies, and letting everything simmer together to develop rich flavors.
Total time
All said and done, you’re looking at roughly 45 minutes to whip up this comforting dish from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal! If you're looking to explore more recipes or tips related to meal prep, check out resources like EatingWell or Serious Eats.
Nutritional Facts for Cozy Stuffed Pepper Soup
If you're wondering about the nutritional benefits of your warming bowl of cozy stuffed pepper soup, you're in the right place! Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect in terms of calories, protein, and sodium.
Calories
- One serving of cozy stuffed pepper soup typically contains around 250 calories. This makes for a satisfying meal without derailing your daily caloric goals.
Protein
- Packed with lean ground beef and rice, each bowl offers about 20 grams of protein. This is excellent for muscle repair and keeping you full throughout the day!
Sodium
- Thanks to using low-sodium beef broth, this recipe comes in at around 600 mg of sodium per serving. This balance helps you enjoy robust flavors without the high sodium levels often found in packaged soups.
Incorporating this cozy soup into your meal plan not only warms your soul but also provides essential nutrients. Ready to get cooking? Don’t forget to grab your favorite ingredients from reliable sources like Target for easy access!
FAQ about Cozy Stuffed Pepper Soup
Can I make the soup in advance?
Absolutely! This cozy stuffed pepper soup is perfect for meal prep. You can cook the soup up to three days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in your fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you prefer a lighter option or are looking for a meat alternative, feel free to use ground turkey or even plant-based proteins like lentils or shredded jackfruit. These substitutes can still deliver that comforting flavor melded beautifully with the spices and veggies in this cozy stuffed pepper soup.
How do I store leftovers?
To store your leftovers, transfer the soup to a sealed container and refrigerate it. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you’ve incorporated rice directly into the soup, it’s best to eat it within a day or two to keep the texture nice. Otherwise, storing rice separately is a great way to maintain that perfect bite!
Feel free to check out more on how to store soup effectively over at Cooking Classy.
Conclusion on Cozy Stuffed Pepper Soup
In summary, this cozy stuffed pepper soup is not just a delicious meal; it's a heartwarming experience perfect for chilly days. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it's sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try, and enjoy the comfort it brings!
Cozy Stuffed Pepper Soup
Equipment
- large pot
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 tablespoon olive oil divided
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped (1 cup)
- 1 cup chopped red bell pepper (a little over ½ of a medium)
- 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14.5 oz) petite diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) low-sodium beef broth
- 2.5 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley plus more for garnish
- 0.5 teaspoon dried basil
- 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white or brown rice (I love both options)
- Cheddar or mozzarella cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat; once hot add beef to pot and season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally while breaking up beef, until browned. Drain beef and pour onto a plate lined with paper towels, set aside.
- Heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in pot then add onions, red bell pepper, green bell pepper and sauté for 3 minutes, then add garlic and sauté 30 seconds longer.
- Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth and add parsley, basil, oregano and cooked beef, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring just to a light boil, then reduce heat to low, cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes.
- While soup simmers, prepare rice according to directions listed on package; once soup is done simmering stir in desired amount of cooked rice into soup.
- Serve warm topped with optional cheese and garnish with fresh parsley.
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