Slow Cooker Stuffed Pepper Soup with Rice Recipe

Slow Cooker Stuffed Pepper Soup with Rice is a comforting and hearty dish that brings all the flavors of classic stuffed peppers into a warming bowl of soup. This easy recipe is loaded with ground beef, bell peppers, tomatoes, and rice, all cooked together in a rich and flavorful broth. It’s perfect for chilly nights and busy days when you want a satisfying meal with minimal effort.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Tips & Notes
• Variations
• FAQs
• Serving Suggestions
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Broth

1. Add the chopped onion, bell peppers, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Stir to combine all the ingredients.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

1. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Add the Rice

1. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked rice.
2. Cover and continue cooking on high heat until the rice is tender, about 25-30 minutes.

Step 5: Serve

1. Stir the soup before serving. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
2. Serve warm and enjoy the hearty flavors of stuffed peppers in soup form.

Cooking Tips & Notes

• Ground Beef: You can use ground turkey or ground chicken as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
• Rice Options: Long-grain white rice works well, but you can also use brown rice or wild rice. Keep in mind that brown rice will need more time to cook.
• Bell Peppers: Use a mix of red, green, and yellow bell peppers for a variety of flavors and colors.
• Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of beef broth by 1 cup.

Variations

• Spicy Stuffed Pepper Soup: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Cheesy Stuffed Pepper Soup: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese just before serving for a creamy, cheesy soup.
• Low-Carb Version: Substitute the rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Add the cauliflower rice during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Vegetarian Stuffed Pepper Soup: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or an extra cup of chopped vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Pre-Cooked Rice?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked rice. Add it to the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking just to heat it through.

2. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

3. Can I Freeze Stuffed Pepper Soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. Can I Add Beans to This Soup?

Absolutely! You can add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or kidney beans for extra protein and fiber.

Serving Suggestions

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping.
• Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• Cheese Topping: Top each bowl with shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
• Sour Cream: Add a dollop of sour cream for a creamy finish.

Slow Cooker Stuffed Pepper Soup with Rice is a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its rich flavors, tender beef, and perfectly cooked rice, this soup delivers all the warmth of traditional stuffed peppers in an easy, one-pot format. Whether you’re serving it with crusty bread or enjoying it on its own, this soup is sure to be a family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious, comforting bowl of homemade goodness!