Unstuffed Pepper Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that captures all the delicious flavors of stuffed peppers without the extra work. This soup combines tender ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and savory tomatoes in a rich broth, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. With a hint of garlic and spices, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly night. The soup is also versatile, allowing you to customize it with different types of meat or make it vegetarian by using beans instead. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread, and you have a complete, warming meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 bell peppers (any color), chopped
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Vegetables and Seasoning: Stir in the chopped bell peppers, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the Rice: Once boiling, stir in the uncooked rice. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. If the soup is too thick, you can add more broth to reach your desired consistency. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Enjoy your Unstuffed Pepper Soup as a delicious and easy-to-make meal that brings the comforting flavors of stuffed peppers to your table in a fraction of the time!
