Pepper Soup Recipe
This Pepper Soup Recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Italian stuffed peppers. It captures all the comforting flavors and textures in a simple one-pot soup. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is bursting with yummy goodness thanks to the savory sausage, fresh veggies, and zesty broth. Enjoy it on a chilly evening or serve it at your next gathering for a flavorful experience that will impress everyone!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just about 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Delight: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a rich and satisfying taste that warms the soul.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or protein options, including ground turkey or beef.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in a single pot.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Great for meal prep; this soup tastes even better the next day!
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, gather these essential tools before you start.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for all ingredients to simmer together, enhancing the flavors.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while ensuring even cooking.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Pepper Soup Recipe:
- 1 lb. hot Italian sausage (may sub lean ground beef/turkey – see notes)
- 1 small yellow onion, (chopped (or half large))
- 1 red bell pepper, (1/2-inch chop)
- 1 green bell pepper, (1/2-inch chop)
- 4-6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/8-1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes, no salt/seasonings added
- 1 14.5 oz. can fire roasted diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 3/4 cup uncooked long grain white rice (see notes for options)
- 1 TBS EACH fresh chopped basil, oregano, parsley (or 1 tsp EACH dried)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 6 cups low sodium beef broth
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Freshly shredded mozzarella for serving
How to Make Pepper Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Onions
Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Brown the sausage and onions for about 4 minutes while breaking up the sausage into smaller pieces.
Add chopped bell peppers, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes; sauté for an additional 2–3 minutes until meat is cooked through and onions are tender. Drain excess grease.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Add all remaining soup ingredients except cheeses into the pot.
Stir well to combine everything evenly.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Cover the soup and bring it to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce heat to LOW and continue to simmer, covered.
Stir occasionally and replace the lid for approximately 8–12 minutes or until rice is cooked through. Check occasionally as cooking time may vary based on your rice type.
Step 4: Final Touches
Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
If desired, add additional broth for a thinner soup.
Step 5: Serve
Ladle hot soup into bowls.
Top each serving with freshly shredded mozzarella cheese before digging in!
How to Serve Pepper Soup Recipe
Serving your Pepper Soup is a delightful experience that can be tailored to suit various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your soup experience.
Pair it with Crusty Bread
- A warm, crusty loaf of bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth. Consider sourdough or French baguette for a classic touch.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Adding fresh basil or parsley on top enhances the flavor and adds a pop of color to your bowl. It’s an easy way to make your dish look gourmet.
Top with Cheese
- A sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese can add creaminess and richness. Melt it on top for a delightful finish.
Serve with a Side Salad
- A light Caesar salad or mixed greens complements the heartiness of the soup nicely. It provides a refreshing contrast to the warm flavors.
Add a Splash of Hot Sauce
- For those who enjoy extra heat, a few drops of hot sauce can elevate the spice level. It’s perfect for those who love bold flavors.
How to Perfect Pepper Soup Recipe
To ensure your Pepper Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh produce and high-quality sausage make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
- Simmer for Flavor: Letting the soup simmer longer allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Experiment with Proteins: Swap out the sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version without sacrificing taste.
- Incorporate Extra Veggies: Feel free to add any leftover vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini or carrots, for added nutrition.
- Store Properly: Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers, and reheat gently on the stove for best results.
Best Side Dishes for Pepper Soup Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Pepper Soup enhances the meal and provides variety. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread – Perfectly toasted garlic bread complements the soup’s flavors and is ideal for dipping.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing provides a nice crunch alongside the warm soup.
- Stuffed Peppers – If you’re craving more peppers, stuffed bell peppers filled with rice and cheese can be a great match.
- Cornbread – Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables – An assortment of roasted seasonal vegetables adds color and nutrients to your meal.
- Cheesy Biscuits – Fluffy biscuits loaded with cheese pair wonderfully and can soak up the delicious broth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Pepper Soup Recipe, a few common mistakes can detract from its deliciousness. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.
- Skipping the seasoning: Forgetting to season properly can result in bland soup. Make sure to taste and adjust your spices throughout the cooking process.
- Overcooking the rice: If you leave the rice in for too long, it may become mushy. Monitor the cooking time closely and check for doneness periodically.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients enhances flavor. Opt for fresh sausage and ripe tomatoes for the best results.
- Not letting it simmer long enough: Rushing through the simmering step can lead to underdeveloped flavors. Allow it to cook covered for the recommended time.
- Ignoring customization options: Sticking rigidly to the recipe limits creativity. Feel free to add your favorite veggies or substitute proteins based on what you have on hand.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The Pepper Soup Recipe will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pepper Soup Recipe
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
- This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Pepper Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about our delicious Pepper Soup Recipe.
Can I use different types of meat in this Pepper Soup Recipe?
Yes! Ground turkey or lean beef are excellent alternatives if you prefer something lighter or have them on hand.
How spicy is this Pepper Soup Recipe?
The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of red pepper flakes used. For a milder version, omit them entirely.
Can I make this Pepper Soup Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the sausage with plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delightful vegetarian dish.
What vegetables work well in this Pepper Soup Recipe?
Feel free to add any veggies you like! Zucchini, corn, or even kale could be great additions based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Pepper Soup Recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it uniquely yours. We encourage you to give this cozy recipe a try!
Pepper Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth of our Pepper Soup Recipe, a delightful twist on classic stuffed peppers, perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings. This one-pot wonder features savory Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and zesty broth, coming together in just 35 minutes. Each spoonful is a flavorful embrace that will impress your family and friends. Customize it to your taste by adding different vegetables or proteins, making it versatile for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it with crusty bread or a sprinkle of cheese, this comforting dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb hot Italian sausage
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 4–6 garlic cloves, minced
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 14.5 oz can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 3/4 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 6 cups low sodium beef broth
- Fresh herbs (basil, oregano, parsley)
- Parmesan cheese and mozzarella for serving
Instructions
- In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, brown the sausage and onions for about 4 minutes. Add bell peppers, garlic, and red pepper flakes; sauté for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in crushed and diced tomatoes, rice, herbs, and broth until well combined.
- Cover and bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer for approximately 8–12 minutes until rice is cooked.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot topped with shredded mozzarella.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
