If you love the flavors of stuffed bell peppers but want a simpler and more convenient way to enjoy them, crockpot stuffed pepper soup is the perfect solution. This hearty, flavorful soup combines all the familiar tastes of the classic dish, but with less hassle. Packed with ground beef, bell peppers, and tomatoes, this soup is nutritious, filling, and perfect for cozy meals.
Ingredients for Crockpot Stuffed Pepper Soup
To make this delicious soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb of ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 3 large bell peppers (use a mix of red, green, and yellow for variety)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) of diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) of tomato sauce
- 4 cups of beef broth (or chicken broth for a lighter flavor)
- 1 tsp of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of cooked rice or quinoa (optional for added thickness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by washing and chopping your bell peppers, dicing the onion, and mincing the garlic. These veggies are the heart of the dish, providing both color and nutrients. If you’re interested in more vegetable-rich meals, check out this guide to kale and quinoa salad.
2. Cooking the Ground Beef
In a skillet, brown your ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Be sure to break up the meat as it cooks for even distribution. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once browned, drain any excess fat and transfer the meat to the crockpot.
3. Assembling the Soup
In your crockpot, combine the browned beef, chopped bell peppers, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, onions, garlic, and broth. Add the Italian seasoning and additional salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together. To make the soup even thicker, you can also add cooked rice or quinoa. If you enjoy hearty soups, you might want to try this recipe for creamy chicken tortilla soup.
4. Slow Cooking
Set your crockpot to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours. This slow process allows all the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and comforting soup.
5. Finishing Touches
Once your soup is done cooking, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve with optional toppings like shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh parsley for extra flavor.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, add cooked rice or quinoa. For a lighter version, omit the grains altogether.
- Choose the Best Peppers: Use a variety of bell peppers to add color and flavor to your soup. Red peppers are sweeter, while green peppers offer a slight bitterness.
- Storing Leftovers: This soup freezes well! Portion it into individual containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat.
Nutritional Information
This crockpot stuffed pepper soup is not only tasty but also a healthy meal option. Each serving contains:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 10g
Bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, which contribute to a healthy immune system. You can learn more about the nutritional benefits of peppers here.
To make it even healthier, you can use lean ground turkey or omit the rice to lower the carbohydrate content.
Common Variations of Crockpot Stuffed Pepper Soup
There are endless ways to customize this soup based on your dietary preferences:
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for plant-based proteins like lentils, chickpeas, or tofu.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the rice and add more vegetables for a low-carb variation. Consider using cauliflower rice as a substitute.
- Spicy Variation: For a kick of heat, add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. You can also serve with a dash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
- It pairs perfectly with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- For meal prep, portion the soup into containers for an easy grab-and-go lunch throughout the week.
Why Crockpot Cooking is Ideal for Stuffed Pepper Soup
Crockpot cooking is ideal for busy families because it requires minimal effort. Just throw the ingredients into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it! The long cooking time allows all the flavors to develop and makes it easy to prepare a meal in advance. Plus, slow cooking helps retain the nutrients from the vegetables and makes the beef tender and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I freeze stuffed pepper soup?
Yes, you can! Simply let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works just as well as beef. If you’re vegetarian, you can substitute the meat for plant-based options like lentils or tofu.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot. Start by using the sauté function to cook the beef, then add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for about 10 minutes. Use a natural release before serving.
Can I add pasta to stuffed pepper soup?
Yes! Cooked pasta can be added towards the end of the cooking process. If you’re freezing the soup, it’s best to add the pasta after reheating to prevent it from getting mushy.
Conclusion
Crockpot stuffed pepper soup is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Packed with protein, vegetables, and a rich tomato base, it’s both hearty and healthy. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or try one of the variations, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. You can also explore more hearty soup recipes like lasagna soup to expand your slow-cooking repertoire.
