Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup Easy and Delicious

Are you craving a warm, hearty meal that’s easy to make? Look no further! My Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup combines vibrant bell peppers, savory meat, and rich tomatoes into one delicious dish. It’s perfect for busy days when comfort food is a must. In this post, I'll guide you through simple steps, share tips for customization, and help you make this soup a family favorite. Let’s dive in and get cooking!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

- 1 lb ground turkey or beef

- 3 bell peppers (any color), chopped into bite-sized pieces

- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices

- 1 cup vegetable broth

For our Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup, the main ingredients are simple and fresh. I often use ground turkey for a lighter option, but beef works great too. The bell peppers add color and sweetness, while diced tomatoes bring a nice tang. Vegetable broth forms the soup's base, making it hearty and flavorful.

Seasonings

- 1 tablespoon tomato paste

- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Seasonings elevate our dish. Tomato paste gives a rich depth, while Italian seasoning adds warmth and earthiness. I always taste and adjust the salt and pepper to suit my preference. A pinch of salt can go a long way!

Optional Garnishes

- Fresh parsley

- Fresh basil

Garnishes are not just for looks. Fresh parsley or basil brightens the soup and adds a fresh kick. I love to sprinkle them on right before serving. It makes the dish vibrant and inviting!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Meat

First, set your Instant Pot to the sauté function. When it gets hot, add 1 pound of ground turkey or beef. Cook the meat, stirring often, until it turns brown and crumbly. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. If you see excess fat, carefully drain it off. This step keeps your soup from getting greasy.

Adding Vegetables

Next, add 1 medium onion, diced, along with 3 chopped bell peppers and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté this mix for another 3 to 5 minutes. Stir frequently until the vegetables soften. The smell will be amazing, and you'll know you’re on the right track.

Combining Key Ingredients

Now it’s time to mix in the fun stuff! Add 1 can of diced tomatoes with their juices, 1 cup of vegetable broth, 1 cup of cooked rice, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning. Don’t forget to add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir everything together well. This ensures all the flavors blend nicely.

Cooking in the Instant Pot

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot. Make sure the steam release valve is set to sealing. Choose the manual high-pressure cooking setting and set the timer for 8 minutes. This is when the magic happens! The pressure will build, and soon you'll have a hearty soup.

Final Adjustments and Serving

After the cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick-release of steam. Turn the steam release valve to let the steam escape. Once it’s safe, open the lid and give the soup a good stir. Now taste it! Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Finally, ladle the soup into bowls. For a lovely touch, sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Tips & Tricks

Choosing the Right Protein

When making stuffed pepper soup, you can choose between ground turkey or ground beef. Ground turkey is leaner and has less fat. It works well for a lighter soup. Ground beef adds a rich flavor and is more filling. Both options taste great, so pick what you like best.

Customizing Flavor

To make the soup your own, adjust the seasoning to taste. You can add more salt or pepper if you want. If you enjoy heat, consider adding hot peppers like jalapeños or crushed red pepper. This will give your soup a spicy kick and make it even more exciting.

Enhancing Texture

For garnishing, fresh parsley or basil adds color and flavor. Chop them finely and sprinkle on top before serving. You can also serve the soup with crusty bread or crunchy crackers. This adds texture and makes the meal more satisfying. Enjoy the blend of flavors and textures!

Variations

Vegetarian Version

You can easily make this soup vegetarian. Just swap the ground meat for plant-based protein. Try using crumbled tofu or lentils. Both options add great texture and flavor. You can also use black beans or chickpeas. These beans pack protein and fiber. Add them with the diced tomatoes for a hearty dish.

Different Grains

Feel free to switch up the grains. Instead of white rice, use brown rice, quinoa, or barley. Each grain gives the soup a unique taste and texture. Quinoa is high in protein, while barley adds a nice chew. Cook the grains ahead of time or add them dry for a thicker soup. Just ensure they have enough time to cook.

Flavor Boosters

You can boost the flavor with cheese or fresh herbs. Stir in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella right before serving. This adds creaminess and richness. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten the dish. Add them as a garnish for a pop of color and taste. Don't be shy to experiment with spices, too!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Instant Pot stuffed pepper soup fresh, store it in the fridge right away. Use an airtight container. This keeps flavors locked in and prevents spills. It’s best to cool the soup to room temperature before you seal it. This helps avoid condensation, which can make soup watery.

Freezing the Soup

Freezing is a great option if you want to save some for later. First, let the soup cool completely before freezing. Pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. If frozen, warm it slowly to keep the flavors.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, your soup can last about 3 to 4 days. If you freeze it, it will stay good for up to 3 months. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. If it smells off or looks strange, it’s best to toss it. Enjoy your soup at its best!

FAQs

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. To prepare it, follow the recipe steps. After cooking, let the soup cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When you are ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

What can I serve with stuffed pepper soup?

This soup tastes great on its own, but you can add sides. Here are some ideas:

- Garlic bread

- Crusty rolls

- A fresh garden salad

- Grilled cheese sandwiches

These sides will enhance your meal and make it more filling.

How do I adjust the thickness of the soup?

If you want the soup thicker, try these tips:

- Add more cooked rice or quinoa.

- Stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.

For a thinner soup, you can:

- Add more vegetable broth or water.

- Cook it for a shorter time to keep more liquid.

Adjust it until you find the perfect texture for your taste.

Is there a way to make it spicier?

Yes, you can easily add heat to your soup. Here are some options:

- Include diced jalapeños or serrano peppers when cooking.

- Stir in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes.

- Add hot sauce to taste right before serving.

These choices will give your soup a nice kick and make it more exciting.

This blog post covered the essential ingredients and steps for making stuffed pepper soup. You learned about the main ingredients, seasonings, and optional garnishes. I shared tips on choosing proteins and customizing flavors, plus a few variations for everyone, including vegetarians. Finally, you got helpful storage tips to keep your soup fresh.

Enjoy making your version of this soup, and don’t forget to adjust it to your taste!