Pepper Soup Recipe

This Pepper Soup Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining the hearty flavors of Italian stuffed peppers into a delicious, easy-to-make soup. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, this dish stands out with its rich tomato broth and vibrant spices. It’s versatile enough to use whatever ingredients you have on hand, making it a flexible choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be made in just about 35 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of spicy sausage, sweet bell peppers, and aromatic herbs creates a comforting flavor explosion.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use leftover veggies or substitute proteins to customize the soup to your liking.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimize cleanup with this simple one-pot recipe that combines all ingredients seamlessly.
• Crowd-Pleasing Meal: With generous servings, this dish is ideal for feeding family or hosting friends.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Pepper Soup Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping board and knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: This allows for even cooking and ample space to simmer your ingredients together.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware while breaking up the sausage evenly.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for 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, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
• 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 tablespoon EACH of fresh chopped basil, oregano, and parsley (or 1 teaspoon 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 cheese for serving

How to Make Pepper Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Meat and Vegetables

Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and chopped onions. Cook for about four minutes while breaking up the sausage with a spoon.

Step 2: Add Bell Peppers and Garlic

Add the chopped red and green bell peppers along with minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté these ingredients for an additional two to three minutes until the meat is cooked through and the onions are tender. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Pour in all remaining ingredients except for the cheeses. Stir well to combine everything.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low. Let it simmer covered while stirring occasionally for about eight to twelve minutes until the rice is cooked through. Note that cooking time may vary based on your rice type.

Step 5: Final Touches

Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a thinner soup, add additional broth as needed.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each serving with freshly shredded mozzarella cheese. Enjoy your delicious Pepper Soup!

How to Serve Pepper Soup Recipe

Serving your Pepper Soup Recipe can elevate your meal experience. With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, there are several delightful ways to enjoy this soup. Whether you want a light lunch or a hearty dinner, here are some serving suggestions.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toast slices of baguette with garlic butter for a flavorful crunch that complements the soup.
• Ciabatta Rolls: Soft and chewy rolls that are perfect for dipping into the zesty broth.

Add Fresh Toppings

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle parsley or basil on top for a burst of freshness.
• Grated Cheese: Top with extra mozzarella or Parmesan for added creaminess.

Serve with Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic pairing with crisp romaine and creamy dressing adds a refreshing contrast.
• Mixed Green Salad: Toss greens with a light vinaigrette for a simple, healthy side.

Enjoy as a Main Dish

• Over Rice: Serve the soup over rice for a heartier meal that absorbs all the flavors.
• With Pasta: Add cooked pasta to the soup for an Italian twist that makes it even more filling.

Save this!

How to Perfect Pepper Soup Recipe

Perfecting your Pepper Soup Recipe is all about technique and flavor balance. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Choose Quality Sausage: Use high-quality Italian sausage for robust flavor. If you prefer leaner options, ground turkey or beef will work well too.
• Experiment with Spices: Adjust red pepper flakes to control the heat level according to your taste preferences.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the overall taste, making your soup vibrant and flavorful.
• Simmer Gently: Avoid boiling vigorously once you add rice; gentle simmering ensures perfectly cooked grains without mushiness.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, gradually add more broth until you achieve your desired consistency.
• Let it Rest: Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking. This helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Pepper Soup Recipe

Serving side dishes alongside your Pepper Soup Recipe can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that pair nicely with your comforting bowl of goodness.

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery sticks infused with garlic flavor make perfect dippers.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Cheesy Quesadillas: Crispy tortillas filled with melted cheese add extra comfort and crunch.
4. Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring additional textures and nutrients to the table.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful sweetness that balances the spiciness of the soup.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs offers an elegant touch that complements the soup’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this Pepper Soup Recipe, it’s easy to encounter a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the sausage can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always take the time to brown your meat thoroughly to enhance the taste.

• Using low-quality broth: The broth is a key ingredient in this recipe. Opt for low-sodium beef broth to avoid overwhelming saltiness and ensure you control the flavor.

• Overcooking the rice: Cooking the rice too long can make it mushy. Keep an eye on it during simmering and follow package instructions for perfect doneness.

• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Tasting your soup before serving is essential. Adjust salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference for maximum flavor.

• Neglecting ingredient freshness: Using wilted vegetables or old spices can dull the flavors. Fresh ingredients will elevate your Pepper Soup Recipe significantly.

Save this!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Pepper Soup Recipe

• Allow soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and it can last 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 with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.

• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: Add soup to a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this Pepper Soup Recipe:

Can I use other types of meat in my Pepper Soup Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute hot Italian sausage with ground turkey or lean beef. This makes it a versatile dish catering to different dietary preferences.

How spicy is this Pepper Soup Recipe?

The spice level depends on the amount of red pepper flakes you use. Start with a smaller amount if you prefer milder flavors and adjust according to taste.

What can I serve with Pepper Soup?

This soup pairs well with homemade Caesar salad and garlic bread for a delightful meal that satisfies all cravings!

Can I make this Pepper Soup Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just replace the meat with your favorite plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

How do I store leftover Pepper Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Pepper Soup Recipe brings comforting flavors and textures into one delicious bowl! Its versatility allows you to customize it with whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make it your own—the options are endless!