There’s something so comforting about soup season, and this Savory Orzo Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup has become a regular at our dinner table. This dish brings together the delightful flavors of stuffed banana peppers in a warm, creamy soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or looking for a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe stands out with its rich flavors and heartwarming ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious soup without any hassle.
• Flavorful Combination – The mix of spices and creamy textures makes each spoonful a delight for your taste buds.
• Versatile Meal – Perfect as a main course or paired with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Comforting and Filling – This soup is hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest appetites.
• Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love the combination of flavors and creamy texture.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand is essential for making your Savory Orzo Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup efficiently. Gather these items before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot – Ideal for simmering your soup evenly, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully.
• Wooden spoon – Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot while mixing ingredients thoroughly.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 cups diced banana peppers
• 1/2 cup chopped green pepper
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 lb mild italian ground sausage (substitute with chicken or turkey)
• 1 heaping tsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter

For the Creamy Mixture

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3/4 cup evaporated milk
• 1 1/2 cups shredded parmesan cheese
• 8 oz cream cheese, cut into cubes

For Seasoning

• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme

For the Pasta

• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

How to Make Savory Orzo Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by washing all vegetables. Dice the banana peppers and chop the green pepper and onion. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and butter. Once melted:
* Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
* Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Meat

Add the ground sausage (or substituted meat) to the pot:
1. Break it apart with your wooden spoon.
2. Cook until browned and fully cooked through.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Dairy

Once meat is cooked:
– Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
– Add evaporated milk, cream cheese cubes, salt, pepper, basil, oregano, and thyme.
– Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Add Pasta

Bring the mixture back to a gentle boil:
– Stir in uncooked orzo pasta.
– Reduce heat to low; cover and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender.

Step 6: Final Touches

Once orzo is cooked:
– Stir in diced banana peppers and green pepper.
– Let it simmer for another few minutes until peppers are tender but still vibrant.

Your Savory Orzo Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup is ready to serve! Enjoy it warm with crusty bread or as part of a cozy gathering.

How to Serve Savory Orzo Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup

Serving Savory Orzo Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup can enhance the meal experience. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these suggestions will elevate your soup’s presentation and flavor.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Sliced and toasted, perfect for dipping in the creamy soup.
• Garlic Bread – Adds a savory touch that complements the flavors of the soup.

Add a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad – Light and refreshing, balances the richness of the soup.
• Caesar Salad – With crisp romaine and creamy dressing, it provides a classic contrast.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Herbs – Sprinkling chopped parsley or basil on top adds color and freshness.
• Extra Cheese – A sprinkle of grated parmesan enhances the creaminess and flavor.

How to Perfect Savory Orzo Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup

To achieve the best results with your Savory Orzo Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh produce will enhance flavors significantly compared to canned options.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Customize the seasoning based on your preference for heat; add crushed red pepper if desired.
• Cook Orzo Al Dente – This ensures that the pasta holds its shape and texture when added to the soup.
• Let It Simmer – Allowing the soup to simmer longer deepens the flavors, making it even more delicious.

Best Side Dishes for Savory Orzo Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup

Complement your Savory Orzo Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup with these delightful side dishes that enhance your meal.

1. Caprese Salad – A light salad of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.
2. Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli adds both color and nutrition to your meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a sweet contrast.
4. Quinoa Salad – Nutty quinoa mixed with diced vegetables adds texture and protein.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms – Filled with cheese or spinach for an extra savory bite alongside the soup.
6. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins pair perfectly with soups, adding a comforting touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Savory Orzo Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using overcooked orzo – Overcooking orzo can result in a mushy soup. Cook it just until al dente before adding it to the soup.
• Not seasoning adequately – Insufficient seasoning can leave your soup bland. Taste and adjust the salt and spices as needed throughout the cooking process.
• Ignoring ingredient quality – Using low-quality vegetables or broth can negatively impact flavor. Always choose fresh ingredients and a good-quality chicken broth.
• Skipping the sauté step – Sautéing the onions and peppers enhances their flavor. Don’t rush this step; allow them to soften and develop sweetness.
• Not allowing time to meld flavors – Serving immediately may not bring out the full flavor of your soup. Letting it rest for a few minutes can help deepen the taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Savory Orzo Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers to store the soup.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; however, orzo may change texture upon reheating.

Reheating Savory Orzo Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until heated through.
• Stovetop – Place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Savory Orzo Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup?

Savory Orzo Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup is a comforting dish featuring tender banana peppers filled with orzo pasta, herbs, and creamy broth.

Can I customize the recipe?

Yes! You can add different proteins like turkey or beef, or switch out spices based on your preference.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Replace the meat with cooked lentils or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

What sides pair well with this soup?

This soup pairs nicely with a fresh salad or crusty bread for dipping.

How long does it take to prepare?

The total time is around 55 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making it a great option for weeknight dinners.

Final Thoughts

Savory Orzo Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by swapping out ingredients according to your taste. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or at a gathering, this soup will surely impress!

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Savory Orzo Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Savory Orzo Stuffed Banana Peppers Soup is the ultimate comfort dish for chilly evenings. This creamy soup perfectly combines the delightful flavors of stuffed banana peppers with hearty orzo pasta, creating a warm and satisfying meal that appeals to both kids and adults. In just under an hour, you can prepare this comforting bowl of goodness that’s versatile enough to be served as a main course or paired with a fresh side salad. The rich blend of spices, along with the creamy texture from cheese and broth, makes each spoonful a true delight. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or simply craving a nourishing weeknight meal, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups diced banana peppers
• 1/2 cup chopped green pepper
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 lb ground turkey (or chicken)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3/4 cup evaporated milk
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1 heaping tsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta

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Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables by washing and chopping the banana peppers, green pepper, and onion.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, combine olive oil and butter, then sauté the onions until translucent. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in the ground turkey (or chicken) and cook until browned.
4. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer; then mix in evaporated milk, cream cheese, and seasonings.
5. Stir in uncooked orzo pasta, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the pasta is tender.
6. Finally, add the banana peppers and green pepper; let simmer for an additional few minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Comfort Food

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 16g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: For added flavor variations, consider incorporating crushed red pepper for heat or using different herbs based on your preference. To make it vegetarian-friendly, swap out meat for lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.