Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add chopped onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add chopped bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, cooked rice, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce heat and cover. Let simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
For a richer flavor, consider browning the ground beef in batches. Pre-cooking the rice separately prevents it from becoming mushy. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for longer storage; thaw completely before reheating. For added flavor, consider adding a bay leaf during simmering, removing it before serving. Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spiciness. You can substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for ground beef. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and substitute the ground beef with lentils or beans.
