Over 70% of Americans love hearty dinners, and stuffed pepper soup is a top pick. You can whip up this tasty soup in under an hour. It includes sautéing onions for 5-7 minutes and browning ground beef for 5 minutes. It’s ideal for a weeknight meal, and you can find similar recipes like stuffed pepper soup that use everyday ingredients.
Introduction to Stuffed Pepper Soup
This stuffed pepper soup recipe is a fantastic choice for a hearty dinner. It has about 331 calories per serving and 29g of protein. You can cook it on the stove or in a slow cooker, and it’s ready fast. Its rich and flavorful broth makes it a family favorite.
Key Takeaways
- You can make stuffed pepper soup in under 1 hour.
- The recipe uses everyday ingredients and is easy to make.
- It’s a great option for a hearty dinner, with approximately 331 calories per serving.
- You can make it on the stove or in a slow cooker.
- The soup is rich and flavorful, making it a great comfort food option.
- Each serving contains approximately 29g of protein and 3g of fiber.
- The recipe yields 6 servings, making it perfect for a family meal.
What Makes Stuffed Pepper Soup Special
Stuffed pepper soup is a true comfort food. It’s a healthy twist on traditional stuffed peppers. This soup is loved by many for its delicious flavors and textures.
It’s made with wholesome ingredients like ground beef, tomatoes, and rice. This makes it a great choice for a healthy meal. Cooking time is about 40 minutes, with 30 minutes of simmering and 10 minutes after adding rice. You can even try stuffed mini peppers for a fun twist.
The soup’s flavors and textures are what make it special. Bell peppers add sweetness, ground beef brings savory taste, and tomato sauce adds creaminess. It’s a comforting dish that’s both healthy and hearty.
This soup is packed with protein, about 31g per serving. It’s also low in calories, with around 371 per serving. It’s full of vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, C, and potassium. Its ease of preparation and health benefits make it a favorite comfort food.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Stuffed Pepper Soup
To make the best stuffed pepper soup, you need a mix of ingredients. They should give delicious flavors and be good for the whole family. The recipe calls for lean ground beef, bell peppers, onions, garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and rice.
You can pick between 90% lean or 80% lean ground beef, based on what you like. For different tastes, check out stuffed pepper recipes.
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key for a great stuffed pepper soup. Lean ground beef is a must, and you’ll need 1 pound of it. Also, 1.5 pounds of lean ground beef and 8 ounces of Italian sausage or ground pork sausage add extra flavor.
The bell peppers bring color and sweetness. The onions and garlic add a savory taste.
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1.5 pounds lean ground beef and 8 ounces Italian sausage or ground pork sausage
- 6 cups reduced sodium beef broth
- 28 ounces canned diced tomatoes
- 15 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups cooked rice
These ingredients help you make a tasty, family-friendly meal. With the right mix, you can create a stuffed pepper soup that’s full of flavor and good for you.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make a delicious slow cooker stuffed pepper soup, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. You probably already have most of them. A large pot or Dutch oven is key for stovetop cooking. A slow cooker is great for a hands-off, meal prep friendly experience. You can also use a pressure cooker to cook faster.
For a low carb stuffed pepper soup, the right tools matter. A food processor or blender makes chopping veggies quick. A can opener is needed for the crushed tomatoes can. Also, a set of measuring cups and spoons ensures you add the right amounts.
Basic Required Tools
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Slow cooker
- Pressure cooker (optional)
- Food processor or blender (optional)
- Can opener
- Measuring cups and spoons
Optional Equipment
For an extra touch, consider some optional equipment. An immersion blender purees the soup right in the pot. Silicone spatulas make scraping the pot easy. A kitchen scale helps measure ingredients accurately.
Storage Containers
After cooking, you’ll need storage containers to keep the soup fresh. Glass or plastic containers with lids are great for fridge or freezer storage. A thermos or insulated container keeps the soup warm for hours.
With the right tools, you can make a delicious, healthy slow cooker stuffed pepper soup. It’s perfect for meal prep diets, whether for one or a big family. These tools make cooking easy and nutritious.
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Slow Cooker | Perfect for hands-off, meal prep friendly cooking |
| Large Pot or Dutch Oven | Essential for cooking on the stovetop |
| Pressure Cooker | Optional, but can reduce cooking time |
Preparation Tips Before You Start
To make the most of your easy stuffed pepper soup recipe, prepare your ingredients and equipment in advance. This one-pot meal is great for a weeknight dinner. It uses healthy ingredients like lean ground beef and fresh veggies, making it a good choice for your family.
Before starting, take a few minutes to review the recipe. Make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and tools. This will help you stay organized and ensure your soup tastes great. You can find more info on herb stuffing and other recipes to go with your meal.
Here are a few key things to remember as you prepare your easy stuffed pepper soup recipe:
- Use 90% lean ground beef to minimize grease and maximize flavor
- Cook your rice in advance to avoid absorption and ensure the right consistency
- Chop your vegetables, including onions and bell peppers, to the right size for even cooking
By following these simple tips, you’ll be on your way to a delicious and healthy one-pot meal. Your whole family will love it. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions because of its short cooking time and easy recipe.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
To make a tasty stuffed pepper soup, just follow a few easy steps. It takes 10 minutes to prepare and 35 minutes to cook. This easy recipe makes 6 servings, with each one having 285 kcal, 37.5g carbs, 21.5g protein, and 5g fat.
Start by chopping the veggies. You’ll need ½ cup of green bell pepper, ½ cup of red bell pepper, and 1 cup of diced onion. Don’t forget 3 cloves of garlic. Cooking the veggies takes 5 minutes.
Then, cook the ground meat. Use 1 lb of 95% lean ground beef. You can also choose ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option. After cooking, build the soup base with 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 ¾ cups of tomato sauce, and 2 cans of petite diced tomatoes.
Simmer the soup for 30 minutes to blend the flavors. Or, use an Instant Pot to cook it in 15 minutes. This makes a delicious and healthy vegetarian stuffed pepper soup. Serve it with sour cream or cornbread.
Some important tips for this stuffed pepper soup include using equal parts ground beef and green peppers. Also, add a bit of brown sugar to balance the taste. You can adjust the recipe by adding chili powder or cayenne pepper to your liking.
How to Achieve the Perfect Texture
Getting the right texture in homemade stuffed pepper soup is key. You want it to be comforting and full of flavor. Adjusting the rice amount can help achieve this. More rice makes it thicker, while less makes it thinner.
The right rice-to-soup ratio is important. A good starting point is 2 cups of cooked rice for 6 cups of water. But feel free to adjust based on your taste. White rice makes it creamier, while brown rice makes it thicker.
Don’t forget about cooking time and method. Using a Crockpot or Instant Pot can make the soup smoother. Cooking it on the stovetop can make it thicker, since it cooks for less time.
Experimenting is the best way to find your perfect texture. With a bit of practice, you’ll make a soup that’s both delicious and comforting. It’s perfect for a cold winter day and will quickly become a favorite.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice | 2 cups |
| Water | 6 cups |
| Ground beef | 2 lbs |
| Tomato sauce | 28 oz |
| Diced tomatoes | 28 oz |
Dietary Modifications and Substitutions
Making a healthy stuffed pepper soup can be easy. You can change it to fit different diets. It’s great for families and can be made for vegetarians, low-carb diets, or gluten-free. Just a few swaps can make it perfect for your taste.
To make it vegetarian, use roasted vegetables or mushrooms instead of meat. This adds fiber and taste. For a low-carb version, cut down the rice or use cauliflower rice. For more ideas, check out vegan recipe websites.
Here are some key nutritional facts about the healthy stuffed pepper soup:
- Calories per serving: 330 kcal
- Carbohydrates per serving: 50.7 g
- Protein per serving: 13.1 g
- Fat per serving: 8.3 g
Gluten-Free Adaptations
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free broth. Also, choose gluten-free spices. These changes make the soup healthy and tasty for everyone.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
There are many ways to serve the best stuffed pepper soup. You can pair it with crusty bread or garlic bread, a classic choice for soups. For a low-carb option, try it with zucchini noodles or roasted vegetables.
A low carb stuffed pepper soup goes well with cauliflower cheese. It adds a creamy texture that complements the soup. You can also serve it with cornbread for a sweet contrast. For a fresh touch, try it with a Caesar salad or a simple green salad.
Other side dish options include:
- Grilled polenta
- Sautéed spinach
- Roasted cabbage wedges
- Honey glazed carrots
- Arugula salad
These choices add texture and flavor to your meal. For more ideas, check out slow cooker Italian sausage soup. With so many options, you can find the perfect match for your stuffed pepper soup.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
There are a few ways to keep your easy stuffed pepper soup fresh. You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 4-5 days. Or, freeze it for up to 3 months, but leave out the rice to avoid mushiness.
To reheat, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight. Then, heat it up on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add broth or water to get the right consistency.
This one-pot meal is great for meal planning because it’s easy to reheat. You can also cook rice separately to keep it fluffy. This is especially good if you’re using white rice. You can adjust the recipe using a slider for servings in the recipe card. For more ideas, check out stuffed peppers soup.
Here are some key tips for storing and reheating your soup:
- Refrigerate leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days
- Freeze soup without rice for up to 3 months
- Reheat thawed soup on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding more broth or water as needed
- Cook rice separately to maintain texture, especially when using white rice
By following these tips, you can enjoy your healthy and easy stuffed pepper soup for longer. It’s a convenient and nutritious option for a one-pot meal.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
When making a tasty stuffed pepper soup, you might face some common problems. These can ruin your hearty dinner. We’ve got some tips to help you fix these issues.
One big problem is texture issues. These can happen if you cook the soup too long or too short. To fix this, cook the soup for 1 hour and 20 minutes. Adjust the time if needed.
Seasoning Adjustments
Seasoning might not be right, but you can fix it. Just add more salt, pepper, or spices to taste. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also help balance the flavors.
Rice Cooking Tips
Cooking rice can be tricky, but it’s easy with the right tips. Use the right water to rice ratio. Cook the rice for 20 minutes on HIGH with natural release.
By using these tips, your stuffed pepper soup will be delicious and healthy. It’s a great choice for a hearty dinner.
Time-Saving Tips and Meal Prep Ideas
Preparing a tasty and comforting meal can be easy with meal prep friendly recipes. The stuffed pepper soup is a great choice for families. It’s easy to make ahead and can be reheated when you’re ready.
Start by chopping veggies, cooking ground beef, and preparing rice before you begin. You can also make the soup base and store it for up to 4 days or freeze it for 3 months. Just reheat it and add your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or tortilla chips.
Here are some time-saving tips for this recipe:
- Make a big batch of soup and divide it into containers for easy meal prep
- Use a slow cooker or Instant Pot to cook the soup, saving up to 30 minutes
- Customize the recipe to fit your diet, like using cauliflower rice or skipping cheese
This stuffed pepper soup is perfect for a cold day. With these tips, you can enjoy a delicious meal without wasting too much time.
Conclusion
This stuffed pepper soup recipe is a tasty and healthy choice for meal prep. It uses good ingredients like ground beef, bell peppers, and tomatoes. This makes it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner.
The recipe is easy to follow, with prep time around 10 minutes and cooking time about 30 minutes. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for 3 months. It’s perfect for meal prep because of its simplicity and flexibility.
If you’re after a comforting soup or a healthy meal, this recipe is perfect. It’s packed with delicious flavors and nutritious ingredients. Try it out and see how it fits into your meal prep routine.
F.A.Q
What is the origin of stuffed pepper soup?
Stuffed pepper soup comes from Eastern European and Mediterranean traditions. It’s a newer twist on the classic stuffed pepper dish. It’s designed to be comforting and easy to make.
What are the health benefits of stuffed pepper soup?
Stuffed pepper soup is good for you. It uses lean ground beef, veggies, and rice. It’s low in calories and high in fiber, perfect for a healthy meal.
Can I make stuffed pepper soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make it in a slow cooker. It’s great for meal prep and family meals. Brown the beef and cook the veggies first, then simmer in the slow cooker all day.
What ingredients do I need to make stuffed pepper soup?
You’ll need ground beef, bell peppers, onions, garlic, tomatoes, rice, and broth. You can adjust it to fit your diet, like making it vegetarian or low-carb.
How do I achieve the perfect texture in stuffed pepper soup?
Cook the veggies until tender and the rice is done. If it’s too thick, add more broth or water. This makes it a hearty dinner.
Can I make stuffed pepper soup ahead of time and reheat it?
Yes, you can make it ahead and reheat it. The flavors get better over time. Just refrigerate or freeze it, then reheat when you’re ready.
What are some common issues that may arise when making stuffed pepper soup?
Issues like texture problems and seasoning can happen. Follow the recipe and adjust the seasoning to taste. This makes it a comforting meal.
How can I customize stuffed pepper soup to suit my dietary needs?
You can make it vegetarian, low-carb, or gluten-free. Just change the ingredients and adjust the seasoning. It’s a healthy and tasty meal.
What are some serving suggestions for stuffed pepper soup?
Serve it with crusty bread, garnish with fresh herbs, or pair with a salad. It’s good as a main dish or side. It’s perfect for family meals.
Can I freeze stuffed pepper soup for later use?
Yes, you can freeze it. Cool it down, then put it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It keeps for months, great for meal prep and family meals.
