Craving a warm, hearty, and healthy meal? This Stuffed Pepper Soup Crockpot recipe is exactly what you need! It’s a deconstructed twist on classic stuffed peppers, offering all the delicious flavors in a convenient and comforting soup format perfect for a busy weeknight. Forget slaving over individual peppers; this slow cooker version is both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
What is Stuffed Pepper Soup?
Stuffed pepper soup takes all the familiar and loveable elements of classic stuffed peppers– the savory combination of bell peppers, ground meat, rice, tomatoes, and seasonings– and transforms them into a comforting and easy-to-eat soup. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy those beloved flavors in a more approachable and convenient format. This particular recipe leverages the hands-off magic of a crockpot, making it ideal for busy individuals and families.
Just dump the ingredients in before you head out for the day, and come home to a delicious, flavorful soup ready to warm you from the inside out. It’s a healthy, budget-friendly option perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. Ready to dive in and experience the taste of stuffed peppers in soup form? Give this Crockpot Stuffed Pepper Soup recipe a try!
Key Ingredients for Stuffed Pepper Soup Crockpot:
- 1 pound Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is preferable, but you can use ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor profile.
- 1 large Onion, chopped: Provides a foundational layer of savory flavor. Yellow or white onion works well.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Adds a pungent and aromatic component that enhances the overall flavor.
- 3 Bell Peppers, chopped (different colors): A mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers adds visual appeal and a variety of slightly different flavors.
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Forms the base of the soup and provides a rich tomato flavor.
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce: Contributes to the soup’s thickness and adds depth of tomato flavor.
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds texture and bursts of fresh tomato flavor.
- 4 cups Beef Broth: Provides the liquid base for the soup, intensifying the meaty flavor. Low-sodium broth is recommended to control the salt level.
- 1 cup Cooked Rice: Adds substance and helps to thicken the soup. Use your favorite type of cooked rice (white, brown, or wild rice) – leftover rice works perfectly!
- 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs (oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary) that provides a classic Italian flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavor and color.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt: Enhances the other flavors. Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds a subtle spice. Adjust to taste.
- Optional Toppings: Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped fresh parsley, or green onions for serving.
How to Make Stuffed Pepper Soup:
This Crockpot Stuffed Pepper Soup is incredibly easy to make! It’s a dump-and-go recipe, perfect for busy weeknights. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and create a hearty, satisfying meal. It will take approximately 10 minutes to prepare, and then 6-8 hours on low in the slow cooker.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Drain off any excess grease. This step can also be skipped if short on time, but browning the beef first adds richer flavor.
- Sauté Aromatics (Optional): Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned ground beef. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent. This step further enhances the flavor.
- Transfer to Crockpot: Transfer the browned ground beef and sautéed vegetables (if using) to a 6-quart or larger slow cooker.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the chopped bell peppers, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
- Stir to Combine: Stir all ingredients together until well combined.
- Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Cooking on low yields a more flavorful result.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning according to preference.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped fresh parsley, or green onions.
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Pepper Soup:
This Stuffed Pepper Soup is a comforting and delicious meal that hits all the right notes. The highlight is undoubtedly the incredibly flavorful broth, rich with the taste of tomatoes, bell peppers, and aromatic spices. Making this soup at home is a huge cost-saver compared to ordering takeout or buying pre-made soups.
A pound of ground beef and a few cans of tomatoes can stretch to feed a whole family! What makes this soup extra special are the customizable toppings. A sprinkle of cheddar cheese adds a creamy, cheesy element, while a dollop of sour cream provides a tangy coolness. Chopped fresh parsley or green onions add a pop of fresh flavor and vibrant color. If you love chili, you might also enjoy this soup as it has a similar hearty and comforting profile with different flavors. Try this Stuffed Pepper soup today and share the love!
What to Serve Stuffed Pepper Soup With:
- Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread, Italian bread, or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
- Cornbread: A warm piece of cornbread complements the flavors of the soup beautifully.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic grilled cheese sandwich is a comforting and satisfying pairing with tomato-based soup.
- Dinner Rolls: Warm dinner rolls are always a welcome addition to any soup meal.
Top Tips for Perfecting Stuffed Pepper Soup:
- Brown the Beef for Enhanced Flavor: While you can skip browning the ground beef if you’re short on time, it really does add a depth of flavor to the soup. Don’t skimp on this step if possible!
- Use a Variety of Bell Pepper Colors: Using a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers not only makes the soup more visually appealing but also adds a wider range of flavors.
- Don’t Overcook the Rice: Add the cooked rice towards the end of the cooking time to prevent it from becoming mushy. If you’re using uncooked rice, you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
- Adjust the Broth for Desired Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, use less broth. If you prefer a thinner soup, add more broth.
- Customize the Spice Level: If you like a spicier soup, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Substitute Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as zucchini, carrots, or celery.
- Don’t Have Cooked Rice?: you can use cauliflower rice. This is a great way to incorporate more veggies into your soup without sacrificing the rice texture or flavor.
- Sauté the onion, garlic and peppers: give the soup more flavor!
5 Facts about Stuffed Pepper Soup:
- Deconstructed Comfort: Stuffed Pepper Soup is essentially a deconstructed version of the classic stuffed pepper dish, offering all the same comforting flavors without the fuss of individual peppers.
- Global Origins: Stuffed peppers themselves have variations in cuisine all over the world with different meats, and spices. The soup is simply a way to enjoy those traditions.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vegetables, lean protein, and complex carbohydrates, this soup is a healthy and balanced meal that provides essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Budget-Friendly: This recipe is very economical and can be adapted to use up leftover ingredients, making it a great way to reduce food waste and save money.
- Versatile and Adaptable: This recipe can be easily customized to suit your dietary preferences and available ingredients. You can use different types of ground meat, vegetables, spices, and toppings to create your own unique version of stuffed pepper soup.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
- Refrigerating: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Portion the soup into individual servings for easy reheating. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating on the Stovetop: To reheat refrigerated soup, pour it into a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Reheating in the Microwave: To reheat refrigerated or frozen soup in the microwave, place it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
- Reheating Frozen Soup: If reheating frozen soup, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Alternatively, you can reheat it directly from frozen on the stovetop or in the microwave, but it may take longer.
Final Thoughts:
This Crockpot Stuffed Pepper Soup recipe is a real winner! It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for a busy weeknight meal. The combination of ground beef, bell peppers, tomatoes, and aromatic spices creates a comforting and satisfying soup that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra vegetables and enjoy a healthy, budget-friendly meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy this warm bowl of comfort!
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest
Stuffed Pepper Soup FAQs:
Q: Can I use uncooked rice in this recipe?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the amount of broth and cooking time. Add about 1/2 cup of uncooked rice and an additional 1 cup of broth. Cook on low for 7-9 hours, or until the rice is tender.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef or substitute it with lentils or mushrooms.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
A: Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as zucchini, carrots, or celery
Q: Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
A: Yes, you can! Brown the ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened. Add the bell peppers, tomatoes, broth, rice, and seasonings. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the flavors have melded.
Q: Can I use different types of meat?
A: While ground beef is commonly used, you can easily swap it out for ground turkey, ground chicken, ground sausage, or even plant-based ground meat alternatives.