Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup Flavorful Delight

Are you ready to warm up with a comforting bowl of Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup? This hearty dish packs all the classic flavors of stuffed peppers into a delicious soup. In just minutes, you can enjoy a savory mix of ground meat, colorful bell peppers, and rich spices. Whether you crave a cozy dinner or a quick lunch, this soup has you covered. Let’s dive into the joy of easy cooking!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

- 1 lb ground turkey or beef

- 3 bell peppers (any color), chopped

- 1 medium onion, diced

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

Ground turkey or beef brings rich flavor and protein to the soup. I love using ground turkey for a lighter touch, but beef adds a nice depth. Bell peppers add sweetness and color, making the dish more appealing. Onions and garlic provide that essential base flavor, creating a warm aroma.

Broth and Seasonings

- 1 cup vegetable broth

- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

- 1 tablespoon tomato paste

- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

- Salt and pepper to taste

The vegetable broth adds a savory backdrop. Diced tomatoes add tang and texture, while tomato paste deepens the flavor. Italian seasoning infuses the soup with herbs, giving it a classic taste. Adjust the salt and pepper to match your palate.

Optional Garnishes

- Fresh parsley or basil

- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or quinoa)

Garnishing with fresh herbs brightens the dish. Parsley or basil adds a pop of color and flavor. You can also stir in cooked rice for a heartier soup. White, brown rice, or quinoa work well, making it filling and satisfying.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Base

First, set your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add 1 pound of ground turkey or beef. Cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure to break it up with a spatula as it cooks. You want it browned but not burnt. If there's extra fat, drain it away.

Next, toss in 1 diced medium onion and 3 chopped bell peppers. I like using different colors for a fun look. Add 3 minced garlic cloves too. Stir everything together and sauté for about 3 to 5 minutes. The veggies should start to soften and smell great.

Combining Ingredients

Now it's time to create the soup! First, add 1 can of diced tomatoes, including the juices. Pour in 1 cup of vegetable broth. Then, mix in 1 cup of cooked rice—white, brown, or quinoa works well. Don't forget to add 1 tablespoon of tomato paste for richness. Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all your ingredients.

Cooking in the Instant Pot

Close the lid of the Instant Pot tightly. Ensure the steam release valve is in the sealing position. Set the pot to manual high pressure for 8 minutes. Once the timer goes off, carefully quick-release the steam. Be cautious of the hot steam! After opening the lid, stir the soup. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Now, your soup is ready to serve. Ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color. Enjoy your hearty Instant Pot stuffed pepper soup!

Tips & Tricks

Instant Pot Usage

When using an Instant Pot, keep these tips in mind:

- Always check the sealing ring. Make sure it is in the right place.

- Add enough liquid. This helps the pot build pressure.

- Avoid overfilling the pot. Keep it below the max fill line.

For quick-release safety, follow these steps:

- Use a long utensil to turn the steam release valve.

- Stand back to avoid hot steam.

- Wait until the float valve drops before opening.

Enhancing Flavors

You can boost the flavor of your soup with these optional spices:

- Add a pinch of cayenne for heat.

- Use smoked paprika for a richer taste.

- Stir in a dash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.

If you want to use different proteins, adjust the cooking time:

- For chicken, cook for 10 minutes.

- For sausage, stick to 8 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

To make your meal even better, serve the soup with these sides:

- Crusty bread or breadsticks add a nice crunch.

- A fresh salad brings a light touch.

For storage and reheating:

- Keep the soup in an airtight container.

- It lasts up to four days in the fridge.

- Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warm.

Variations

Vegetarian Option

For a meat-free soup, use meat substitutes like lentils or a plant-based ground meat. These options provide protein and texture, making the soup hearty. You can also add extra vegetables. Try using zucchini, corn, or mushrooms. These will add flavor and nutrition to your dish.

Different Flavor Profiles

If you like heat, add jalapeños for a spicy kick. Chop them finely and mix them in during the sauté step. You can also give your soup an international twist. For a taco-style soup, add cumin, chili powder, and black beans. This will change the flavor and make it exciting!

Rice Alternatives

Looking for a low-carb option? Use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. Quinoa adds protein, while cauliflower rice keeps it light. Both options are great for gluten-free diets. They will still make the soup filling and delicious.

Storage Info

Refrigeration

For storing your soup, use airtight containers. Glass or BPA-free plastic works best. Make sure the soup cools to room temperature before sealing it up. In the fridge, this soup stays fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, think about freezing.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze, let the soup cool completely. Pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand when it freezes. When you want to eat it, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge.

For reheating, use the stovetop or microwave. If using the stovetop, heat it on low, stirring often. This helps keep the texture just right. If you microwave, do it in short bursts, stirring in between. Enjoy your tasty Instant Pot stuffed pepper soup!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can! Ground turkey and beef work well, but other meats are great too. You can use ground chicken or pork for a different taste. Even shredded rotisserie chicken makes a quick option. For a lighter choice, consider plant-based meat substitutes. They can add a fun twist to the soup.

How do I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?

You can easily make stuffed pepper soup on the stovetop. Start by browning your meat in a large pot. After that, add the onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté until soft. Next, mix in the diced tomatoes, broth, rice, and seasonings. Let it simmer for about 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is well combined and heated through.

Is this soup healthy?

Absolutely! This soup is packed with nutrients. It has lean protein from the meat, vitamins from the bell peppers, and fiber from the rice. Each serving offers a good balance of protein and veggies. Using low-sodium broth can help keep salt levels down. Plus, you can customize it with more vegetables for added health benefits.

This recipe highlights simple ingredients like ground meat, bell peppers, and broth. You learn step-by-step how to create a delicious soup using an Instant Pot. Tips for enhancing flavor and suggestions for vegetarian options make it versatile. Remember, you can store leftovers for future meals, and the soup adapts easily to your taste. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors. With this knowledge, you can cook and customize your soup just right for you. Dive in and savor the results!