Step 1

Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and use a spatula to break it up. Season with salt and pepper. Cook the beef until browned, stirring occasionally. Once fully cooked, drain the beef and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Set aside.

Step 2

Heat the oil in the pot, then add the onion and bell pepper and saute for 3 to 4 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic, basil, oregano, and thyme and saute another 30 seconds.

Step 3

Add the ground beef back to the pot along with the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce and beef broth. Cover the pot, bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, and stir occasionally for 20 minutes. Note: if you haven't yet pre-cooked your rice, you can cook it while the soup is simmering.

Step 4

Stir in the cooked rice. If you'd like a slightly thinner soup, feel free to add more broth. To serve, ladle into bowls and top with freshly chopped parsley.