Cozy Stuffed Pepper Soup (Hearty One-Pot Dinner) - Quickie Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 large red bell pepper, diced
• 1 large green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 can (14.5 oz / 411 g) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce
• 5 cups (1.2 L) low-sodium gluten-free beef broth
• 1 tablespoon gluten-free Worcestershire sauce
• 1 bay leaf
• 3/4 cup (150 g) long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Optional toppings: shredded cheddar, parmesan, or red pepper flakes