Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef: For the classic stuffed pepper ingredient, I used ground beef. But ground turkey or ground chicken would work great, too.

Bell Peppers: We can’t have stuffed pepper soup without bell peppers! used green and red for color and flavor, but you can also use yellow or orange bell peppers to brighten it up even more.

Tomatoes: The diced tomatoes add some texture and sweetness, and the tomato sauce gives the soup a smooth, rich flavor. I used plain diced tomatoes, but you can use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a smoky taste. Or, choose your favorite variety.

Beef Broth: Beef broth adds a savory, hearty flavor to the soup, but you can also use low-sodium beef broth to control the saltiness. Or, substitute with chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter taste.

Italian Seasoning: Italian seasoning adds a blend of herbs that brings warmth and depth to the soup. You can also use dried oregano and basil if you don’t have the mix on hand.

Orzo: Orzo is a small pasta that looks like rice. It cooks quickly and just adds a little extra heartiness and texture to the soup. Once you taste this soup with orzo, you will want to try my Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, too.

Ladle full of Stuffed Pepper Orzo Soup being held above the pot from overhead.

Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Pepper Orzo Soup

This soup is a comforting, hearty meal that combines all the flavors of classic stuffed peppers in one easy, one-pot dish. It’s quick to make, packed with tender beef, fresh bell peppers, and tender orzo pasta, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious and filling with minimal cleanup. Plus, it’s flexible! You can swap the beef for turkey or chicken and switch up the vegetables to suit your taste!

Can I Make Stuffed Pepper Orzo Soup in a Slow Cooker?

Absolutely! You can make stuffed pepper orzo soup in a slow cooker for a hands-off, easy meal. Simply brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables first. Then, add all the ingredients except the orzo to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. About 20-30 minutes before serving, stir in the orzo and cook until tender. This method helps the flavors all come together and makes dinner prep super simple.

Bowls of Stuffed Pepper Orzo Soup on a wooden table from overhead.

How to Thicken Stuffed Pepper Orzo Soup

This soup is on the thinner side with a broth base, but is full of flavor! If you prefer a thicker soup, there are a few easy ways to do it. You can let the soup simmer uncovered a bit longer to reduce the liquid and concentrate the flavors. Another option is to stir in a slurry made from 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water. (Add it slowly while stirring until the soup thickens.) For extra creaminess, you could also add a little cream cheese or sour cream.

What to Serve with Stuffed Pepper Orzo Soup

This hearty soup pairs well with simple sides like a crusty French baguette or garlic cheese bread for dipping. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables make a light, refreshing contrast. You could also serve it with a side of butter swim biscuits, or even a crispy grilled cheese sandwich for a cozy meal.

Spoonful of Stuffed Pepper Orzo Soup being held above the bowl.

Can I Freeze Stuffed Pepper Orzo Soup?

Yes! You can freeze stuffed pepper orzo soup, but it’s best to freeze it before adding the orzo pasta to prevent it from getting mushy. Freeze the soup in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stove and stir in cooked orzo just before serving.