Print

Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup with Rice and Cheese

hearty stuffed pepper soup - featured image

A comforting and filling soup combining tender bell peppers, hearty rice, and melty cheddar cheese, perfect for cozy dinners and quick weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef, lean or regular
  • 3 medium bell peppers (about 1½ cups), diced (mix of red and green recommended)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
  • 4 cups beef broth, homemade or low-sodium store-bought
  • ½ cup uncooked white long-grain rice
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (blend of basil, oregano, thyme)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers and sauté for about 5 minutes until onions are translucent and peppers start to soften.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Increase heat to medium-high and add ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook for 6-8 minutes until no pink remains. Drain excess fat if desired.
  4. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with juices, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
  5. Bring soup to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Add uncooked rice, partially cover the pot, and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  7. Turn off heat and stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
  8. Ladle soup into bowls and sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

If soup is too thick, add a splash more broth or water before serving. Avoid boiling aggressively to prevent undercooked rice and watery soup. Brown beef thoroughly for best flavor. Stir rice occasionally but not too much to avoid mushiness. For dairy-free, use plant-based cheese or omit cheese. Brown rice can be used but requires longer cooking time (40-45 minutes).

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffed pepper soup, hearty soup, rice and cheese soup, comfort food, easy weeknight dinner, ground beef soup, cheesy soup