Rachael says, “The man who owns my local oil company makes a great stuffed pepper soup, but it takes too long for me to make it for myself. Here’s a sped-up stoup version of my own. Mr. Waterhouse’s is tops, but this is a close second – if you don’t know Mr. Waterhouse.”
When stuffed peppers met soup, it was a match made in comfort-food heaven! This recipe combines all the flavors you love—savory beef, tender peppers, and zesty tomatoes—into a hearty bowl of pure joy. With orzo to soak up the goodness and a sprinkle of Parm on top, it’s a worlds-colliding meal that’s as cozy as it is satisfying.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
1 1/2 pounds ground beef sirloin
Salt and black pepper
1/2 teaspoon allspice (eyeball it)
4 cloves garlic, chopped
1 large onion, cut into bite-size dice
3 green bell peppers, seeded and cut into bite-size dice
1 bay leaf
1 quart chicken stock
1 can crushed tomatoes (28 ounces)
1 cup orzo pasta
12-15 basil leaves, shredded or torn
Grated Parmigiano Reggiano, to pass at table
Directions
Heat a medium soup pot over medium-high heat with the EVOO. When the EVOO is hot, add beef and season with salt, black pepper and allspice. Brown the meat for 5 minutes then add garlic, onion, peppers and bay leaf and cook for 7-8 minutes, until tender.
Stir in stock and tomatoes and bring to a boil. Add pasta and cook to al dente, 7-8 minutes. Turn off heat. Fold in basil.
