Hearty & Easy Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup: A Delicious Pressure Cooker Meal
There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of soup to warm you from the inside out, especially when the weather turns chilly. Our **Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup** takes everything you love about classic stuffed peppers – the savory ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, rich tomatoes, and fluffy rice, all infused with aromatic spices – and transforms it into an incredibly easy and satisfying one-pot meal. This hearty soup comes together quickly in your pressure cooker, making it perfect for busy weeknights, effortless meal prep, or any time you crave a flavorful, filling dish that the whole family will adore.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup
Living in Ohio, we’re well acquainted with cold weather, and it invariably calls for warm, hearty meals that offer both comfort and sustenance. This Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup is an ideal solution. It’s not just an easy meal that leverages the efficiency of your pressure cooker; it’s incredibly filling, deeply satisfying, and brimming with the familiar flavors of home. Forget the labor-intensive process of hollowing out and stuffing individual bell peppers. This recipe delivers all those beloved tastes in a fraction of the time, with minimal effort and easy cleanup, making it a perfect **weeknight dinner idea**.
This **pressure cooker stuffed pepper soup** is the ultimate comfort food, designed for wholesome dinners and even better as leftovers. Its robust flavors and satisfying texture mean you’ll have delicious lunches or additional easy meals ready to go throughout the week. Traditional stuffed peppers have always been a favorite in our family, and this soup version brings that same culinary joy with added convenience. If you enjoy the classic flavors of stuffed peppers but prefer different preparation methods, you might also like our Slow Cooker Stuffed Pepper Soup for a hands-off approach, or our One Pot Mexican Stuffed Pepper Casserole for a delightful twist.
While this **stuffed bell pepper soup recipe** typically uses ground beef, it’s remarkably versatile and adaptable. You can easily substitute it with lean ground turkey, ground chicken, or even ground pork to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. For those seeking a meatless option, this recipe can be transformed into a fantastic vegetarian dish by omitting the meat and incorporating hearty beans. Regardless of your protein choice, you’ll find this soup boasts a rich medley of colorful bell peppers, sweet and tangy tomatoes, perfectly cooked rice, and a fragrant blend of classic spices that make every spoonful a true delight.
If you’re a soup enthusiast looking for more delicious and **easy soup recipes**, be sure to explore our extensive collection of soup recipes here. You might particularly enjoy our warming Vegetable Soup with Cabbage, the zesty Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Lime Soup, the wholesome Lentil Bean Soup, and our quick Instant Pot Turkey Chili. Each offers unique flavors and the promise of a satisfying, comforting meal.
Essential Ingredients for Our Best Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup
One of the most appealing aspects of this **easy Instant Pot stuffed pepper soup recipe** is its reliance on readily available, simple ingredients that combine to create an incredibly flavorful and satisfying dish. It truly is a favorite for a hearty and quick meal. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create this comforting soup:
- Ground Meat: The heart of this **savory soup** often begins with 1 pound of ground beef, providing a rich, robust foundation that’s characteristic of traditional stuffed peppers. However, this recipe is wonderfully flexible. For a leaner option, feel free to use ground turkey or ground chicken. Ground pork can also be used for a slightly different, equally delicious flavor. Choose what your family loves most!
- Aromatics: To build a deep flavor base, you’ll need 1/2 of a large sweet onion, diced, and 4 garlic cloves, minced. Sautéing these until fragrant unlocks their sweet and pungent notes, forming the essential aromatic backbone of the soup.
- Bell Peppers: As the name suggests, bell peppers are a star! The recipe calls for 2 large bell peppers, diced (seeds removed). I recommend using a mix of colors, such as red and green bell peppers, for both their distinct flavors and vibrant visual appeal. Red peppers are sweeter, while green peppers offer a classic, slightly tangy note. Yellow or orange varieties can also be used for a milder sweetness.
- Tomatoes: To achieve that rich, hearty tomato base, you’ll incorporate both 1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes and 1 (14.5 ounce) can of tomato sauce. The diced tomatoes add texture and a fresh burst of tomato flavor, while the tomato sauce contributes to the soup’s body and deepens its overall taste profile.
- Celery: 2 diced celery stalks provide a subtle crunch and a layer of earthy flavor, beautifully complementing the other vegetables. It’s a classic mirepoix component that enhances the soup’s savory depth.
- Rice: Uncooked 3/4 cup long grain white rice is specifically recommended for this Instant Pot recipe. It cooks perfectly under pressure, absorbing all the delicious broth and flavors, becoming tender and plump without turning mushy. This is what gives the soup its comforting, “stuffed pepper” heartiness.
- Broth: You’ll need 5 cups of broth (chicken or beef), divided. Using a good quality broth instead of just water adds an essential layer of savory flavor. The divided amount allows for initial cooking and an optional addition at the end to adjust the soup’s consistency to your liking.
- Flavorful Spices: A carefully chosen blend of spices truly elevates this soup. You’ll use 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon paprika. These herbs and spices are the essence of classic comfort food, perfectly seasoning the meat and vegetables. For a gentle kick, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper is an optional addition, along with standard 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper to taste.
Customize Your Stuffed Pepper Soup: Delicious Variations & Dietary Swaps
One of the greatest advantages of this Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup is its incredible versatility. Feel empowered to get creative and tailor it to your family’s tastes, dietary needs, or simply what ingredients you have on hand. Here are some fantastic recipe modifications and variations to inspire your culinary adventures:
- Meat Alternatives: If ground beef isn’t your preferred protein, it’s incredibly easy to substitute. **Ground turkey**, **ground chicken**, or even **ground pork** all work wonderfully, each lending a slightly different but equally delicious flavor profile to this **hearty soup**. For a robust vegetarian version of this Instant Pot Bell Pepper Soup, simply omit the meat entirely and instead add a can or two of your favorite beans – chickpeas, white beans, or kidney beans are excellent choices for adding plant-based protein and texture. Cooked lentils can also be a wonderful addition, creating a wholesome vegetarian stuffed pepper soup.
- Bell Pepper Choices: While I often use a combination of red and green bell peppers for both their contrasting flavors and vibrant colors, feel free to experiment! Yellow and orange bell peppers offer a milder, sweeter flavor profile compared to green peppers. You can also add an extra bell pepper or two if you adore their crisp-tender texture and natural sweetness.
- Boosting the Veggies: To make this soup even heartier and more nutrient-dense, consider incorporating additional vegetables. Diced carrots, sliced zucchini, or even quartered mushrooms would be delicious additions. For an extra layer of smoky depth, swap the regular diced tomatoes for fire-roasted tomatoes. Stirring in a handful of fresh spinach or kale at the very end, just after the pressure release, will allow the greens to wilt beautifully into the warm soup, adding a pop of color and extra vitamins.
- Creative Garnishes: The right garnish can truly elevate any soup, and this ground beef and rice soup is no exception. Personalize your bowl with your favorite toppings! Fantastic options include fresh chopped parsley or cilantro, thinly sliced green onions (scallions) for a mild oniony bite, or finely diced red onion for a sharper contrast. A generous handful of shredded mozzarella cheese, sharp cheddar, provolone, or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan will melt into a creamy, dreamy topping. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can also add a lovely tang and richness.
- Adjusting Spice Level: If you enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne pepper called for in the recipe, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. For a milder flavor, simply omit the cayenne entirely.
- Alternative Grains: While long-grain white rice is recommended for its quick cooking and ideal texture in the Instant Pot, you could experiment with other grains. Brown rice could be used, though it would require a longer pressure cooking time. Orzo pasta or small pasta shapes can be added, but I recommend cooking them separately and stirring them in at the end to prevent them from becoming overly mushy in the pressure cooker. For a gluten-free option, cooked quinoa or riced cauliflower could be stirred in after the soup is done cooking.
Pro Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup Every Time:
I’ve meticulously tested and refined this recipe time and again in the pressure cooker to ensure consistently perfect results. Here are some key insights and expert tips to help you achieve the best possible outcome with your delicious **Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup**:
- Understanding Soup Thickness: One important characteristic of this soup when prepared in the Instant Pot is its tendency to become quite thick. This is a natural result of the rice absorbing the flavorful broth and expanding under pressure, combined with some liquid reduction during the cooking process. If you’re a fan of very thick, hearty, stew-like soups, you might find it perfectly satisfying as is!
- Adjusting Consistency Post-Cooking: For those who, like me, prefer a slightly thinner, more traditional soup consistency, there’s an easy fix. After the soup has finished cooking and the pressure has been safely released (whether naturally or via quick release), carefully open the lid and stir in an **additional cup of broth**. This simple step beautifully thins out the soup without compromising its rich flavor. Feel free to add even more broth, a quarter cup at a time, until you reach your ideal consistency.
- Preventing the “BURN” Notice: When layering your ingredients into the Instant Pot, it’s crucial to add the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce to the very top and **resist the urge to stir them in** with the other ingredients. Tomato products, especially when directly touching the bottom of the inner pot, can sometimes trigger the Instant Pot’s “BURN” warning. By layering them on top of the broth and other ingredients, you significantly minimize this risk.
- Deglazing for Enhanced Flavor: After browning your ground meat, you might notice some delicious browned bits (fond) stuck to the bottom of the pot. Before adding the rest of the ingredients, pour in a small amount of broth (from your measured 4 cups) and use a wooden spoon to scrape up these bits. This process, known as deglazing, adds incredible depth of flavor to your soup and also helps prevent the “BURN” message by ensuring the bottom of the pot is clear.
- Leftovers Will Thicken More: Be aware that this **Instant Pot ground beef soup** tends to thicken even further as it cools and rests in the refrigerator overnight. This is perfectly normal due to the rice continuing to absorb moisture. Each time you reheat leftover soup, you’ll likely want to add a small amount of water or additional broth to bring it back to your preferred, delightful consistency. It’s an easy adjustment!
- Do Not Overfill: Always pay attention to the maximum fill line on your Instant Pot’s inner pot, especially when cooking recipes that contain ingredients like rice, which expand significantly. Overfilling can be dangerous and prevent proper pressure buildup.
Storage & Reheating for Convenient Stuffed Pepper Soup Leftovers
This Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup is not only a fantastic meal to enjoy fresh, but it also makes for excellent leftovers, simplifying your meal prep for the week ahead. Proper storage and reheating techniques ensure you can savor its delicious flavors for days to come, turning one cooking session into multiple easy meals.
- Refrigerating Leftovers: Store any leftover **bell pepper soup** in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 to 5 days. As noted in our cooking tips, the rice will continue to absorb liquid as the soup cools and sits, often making it significantly thicker than when first cooked. When you’re ready to reheat, it’s highly recommended to add a small amount of water or additional broth (a quarter to half a cup, or more) to loosen it back to your desired consistency. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until thoroughly warmed through.
- Freezing for Later: This **ground beef bell pepper soup** freezes beautifully, making it an ideal candidate for future quick and easy meals.
- First, ensure the soup has cooled completely in the refrigerator before portioning it for the freezer. Freezing warm soup can affect its texture and the safety of other frozen items.
- Divide the cooled soup into individual portions or family-sized servings, depending on your needs.
- Transfer the soup to freezer-safe containers, heavy-duty freezer bags, or even freezer-safe glass jars (leaving headspace for expansion). If using bags, lay them flat on a baking sheet to freeze, then store them vertically to save space in your freezer.
- Be sure to label each container or bag with the date. The soup can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 3 months, ensuring you always have a comforting meal on standby.
- Thawing and Reheating Frozen Soup:
- To thaw, transfer the frozen soup from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before you plan to eat it. This allows for a gradual thaw and preserves texture.
- Alternatively, for a quicker approach, you can gently reheat it directly from frozen in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it has thawed and is simmering. This method might require more attention to prevent scorching.
- Just like with refrigerated leftovers, expect the soup to be quite thick upon thawing. As it reheats, add a splash of water or broth to restore its creamy, soupy texture to your liking.
Serving Suggestions for Your Delicious Stuffed Pepper Soup
This hearty Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup is a wonderfully complete meal on its own, packed with protein, vegetables, and grains. However, it pairs beautifully with a few simple additions to create an even more satisfying and well-rounded dinner. Serve it alongside a generous slice of crusty bread or warm cornbread – perfect for soaking up every last drop of the rich, savory broth. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the soup with fresh, vibrant flavors. For an extra comforting and nostalgic touch, consider serving it with a classic grilled cheese sandwich, making for a truly delightful and satisfying combination.
More Delicious & Comforting Soup Recipes from Our Kitchen
If you’ve thoroughly enjoyed making and savoring this **easy Instant Pot soup recipe**, then you’re in for a treat! We invite you to discover more of our favorite comforting and flavorful soup creations. Each recipe is designed to be approachable, delicious, and perfect for any occasion, from quick weeknight dinners to cozy weekend gatherings. Expand your soup repertoire with these enticing options:
Mediterranean
Lebanese Lentil Soup
Vegetarian
Moroccan Carrot Red Lentil Soup
Mediterranean
Lemon Lentil Soup Recipe
Beef
Pasta e Fagioli Soup
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Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup
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Ingredients
For the soup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground meat of your choice {beef, turkey, chicken or pork}
- 1/2 of a large sweet onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 large bell peppers, seeds removed, diced {colors of your choice}
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 5 cups of broth {chicken or beef}, divided
- 3/4 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper {optional for spice}
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 – 14. 5 ounce can of tomato sauce
- 1 – 14.5 ounce can of diced tomatoes
Instructions
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To begin, turn on the sauté function on your pressure cooker and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat for approximately two minutes. Then, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté these aromatics for another two minutes until they are fragrant and slightly softened. Next, add your chosen ground meat (ground beef, turkey, chicken, or pork) to the pot.
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Continue to sauté the meat for 4-5 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until it is thoroughly browned. Once the meat is browned, carefully drain any excess fat from the pot and return the savory meat to the pressure cooker. This step is crucial for developing deep flavor.
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Turn off the sauté function. Now, it’s time to layer in the remaining ingredients. Add the diced bell peppers, chopped celery, 4 cups of the broth (remember to reserve the last cup for later), uncooked long grain white rice, dried basil, dried thyme, dried oregano, paprika, optional cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir all these ingredients gently to combine them well at the bottom of the pot.
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Crucially, add the can of diced tomatoes and the can of tomato sauce to the very top of the other ingredients. Do not stir them into the mixture. This layering technique is important for preventing a potential “BURN” notice on your Instant Pot, as tomato products can sometimes stick to the bottom.
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Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and ensure the valve is sealed to the “Sealing” position. Set the pressure cooker to cook on MANUAL HIGH PRESSURE for exactly 3 minutes.
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Once the cooking cycle is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure by carefully turning the valve to the “Venting” position. Allow all the steam and pressure to escape completely before opening the lid. Unplug the pressure cooker and cautiously open the lid. Stir the soup thoroughly to combine all the cooked ingredients. If you prefer a thinner soup consistency, now is the time to stir in the additional 1 cup of broth (or more, to taste). Ladle the warm soup into bowls and serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley, green onions, diced red onion, and a sprinkle of cheese if desired. Enjoy your homemade, hearty Instant Pot stuffed bell pepper soup!
Notes
- To store: This delicious soup lasts wonderfully in the fridge for about 5 days when kept in an airtight container. Please note that the rice will continue to absorb liquid and the soup will thicken considerably in the refrigerator. To restore its perfect consistency, simply stir in a small amount of water or additional broth when reheating the soup.
- To freeze: For convenient future meals, this soup is also freezer-friendly. Make sure to let the soup cool completely in the fridge before you portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Remember to add extra broth or water when reheating after thawing, as the consistency will be thicker.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
The Perfect Comfort Food: Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup for Every Table
This Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup is truly more than just a meal; it’s a heartwarming culinary embrace in a bowl. By combining the classic, beloved flavors of traditional stuffed peppers with the unparalleled efficiency of pressure cooking, it delivers a hearty, incredibly flavorful, and deeply satisfying experience without any of the usual fuss. Whether you’re seeking solace from cold weather, searching for an easy yet impressive weeknight dinner, or planning nourishing meals for the week ahead, this soup stands out as a versatile and delicious solution. Its rich, savory broth, tender meat, and perfectly cooked rice make it a guaranteed family favorite that you’ll be eager to prepare and enjoy again and again.
We sincerely hope that these detailed insights, practical tips, and creative modifications empower you to create the most incredible batch of **Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup**. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations, customize it to your heart’s content, and most importantly, share your delicious creations and experiences with us!