There’s something inherently comforting about a bowl of hearty soup, especially when it’s made in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld and develop over hours of gentle simmering. Slow Cooker Stuffed Pepper Soup is one such recipe that brings together the rich, savory flavors of stuffed peppers in a warm, comforting soup. This dish is perfect for cold days, family gatherings, or when you simply want a meal that feels like a warm hug. I remember the first time I made this soup; the aroma that filled my kitchen was reminiscent of my grandmother’s kitchen during the holidays. The combination of tender bell peppers, flavorful ground beef, and a rich tomato broth creates a dish that is both satisfying and nostalgic. This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef, browned and drained
1/2 onion, finely chopped
2 assorted bell peppers, deseeded and diced
3 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
3 cups rich beef broth
1 cup prepared rice (or, for a quicker version, opt for instant rice and add it in the last 30 minutes of cooking)
1 tsp garlic salt
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Brown the Ground Beef:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add 1 lb of ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease and set the browned beef aside.
Chop the Vegetables:
Finely chop 1/2 onion.
Deseed and dice 2 assorted bell peppers.
Finely mince 3 garlic cloves.
Step 2: Assemble the Soup in the Slow Cooker
Combine Ingredients:
In your slow cooker, add the browned ground beef, chopped onion, diced bell peppers, and minced garlic.
Pour in 1 can of diced tomatoes (undrained) and 1 can of tomato sauce.
Add 3 cups of rich beef broth to the slow cooker.
Season the Soup:
Stir in 1 tsp of garlic salt and 1 tsp of dried oregano.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind you can adjust the seasoning later as the soup cooks.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Soup
Set the Slow Cooker:
Secure the lid on your slow cooker.
Set the cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or for a quicker version, set it to high and cook for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Add the Rice
Prepare the Rice:
If using pre-cooked rice, have 1 cup ready to add to the soup.
If opting for instant rice, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking time to allow it to cook and absorb the flavors.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Combine the Rice:
Stir the prepared rice into the slow cooker, ensuring it is well mixed with the other ingredients.
Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or garlic salt to your preference.
Garnish and Serve:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese if desired. The cheese adds an extra layer of indulgence that complements the rich flavors of the soup.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian Version:
Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or increase the quantity of vegetables, such as adding more bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly soup.
Spicy Twist:
Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup for a spicy kick.
Use spicy sausage instead of ground beef for an extra layer of heat.
Low-Carb Option:
Replace the rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version of this soup.
Add more low-carb vegetables like spinach or kale to increase the nutritional content.
Different Proteins:
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
Add cooked and crumbled sausage for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Stuffed Pepper Soup is a wonderful, comforting dish that brings together the best flavors of stuffed peppers in a convenient and easy-to-make soup. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, hearty meal with minimal effort. This soup is perfect for meal prep, as it reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for future meals. The rich, savory broth, tender vegetables, and flavorful ground beef make every spoonful satisfying and heartwarming. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing for a gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the process of making and savoring this delightful soup, and relish the moments of shared contentment it brings. Bon appétit!
