Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a warm, flavorful, and healthy meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Then look no further! This Crock Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup recipe is your answer. It’s a delicious twist on the classic stuffed peppers, offering all the comforting flavors in a convenient, one-pot wonder. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend supper, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Get ready to savor the vibrant tastes of bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, and savory ground beef or turkey, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. This easy recipe is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a fantastic addition to your healthy meals repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds a fantastic flavor base for your soup.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Using lean ground meat helps to keep this recipe healthy and delicious.
Step 3: Combine in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the onion, garlic, and meat mixture to your slow cooker. Add the chopped bell peppers, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the peppers are tender. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together, creating a richer and more satisfying soup.
Step 5: Stir in Rice and Serve
Stir in the cooked brown rice during the last 30 minutes of cooking time. This allows the rice to heat through and absorb some of the delicious soup flavors. Before serving, ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Stuffed Pepper Soup:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the ground meat and add 1 cup of lentils or kidney beans for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Use different cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
Variations:
- Creamy Stuffed Pepper Soup: Stir in a cup of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last 15 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier texture.
- Spicy Stuffed Pepper Soup: Add a diced jalapeño pepper along with the other vegetables for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 300-350 Protein: 20-25g Fat: 10-15g Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This Crock Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup is a perfect example of delicious and healthy quick dinner ideas. It's a simple, satisfying, and flavorful meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend. Enjoy this homemade cooking masterpiece!