Have you ever tasted a dish that instantly warms your soul? If not, it’s time to make Copycat Culver’s Stuffed Pepper Soup. This delightful and hearty soup packs a punch of flavor, bringing the comfort of home cooking to your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this soup has got you covered.
Why Make This Recipe
This Copycat Culver’s Stuffed Pepper Soup is a fantastic recipe for a multitude of reasons. First and foremost, it’s a delicious way to enjoy the traditional flavors of stuffed peppers without the hassle of stuffing them. The amalgamation of ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and aromatic seasonings creates a warm, hearty soup that satisfies your appetite.
Furthermore, it’s simple and quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. You can easily store leftovers and reheat them for a quick lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s a comforting meal that even picky eaters will enjoy!
So, gather your ingredients and get ready to dive into this comforting bowl of goodness.
Recipe Overview
- Servings: 6
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Cooling Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Let’s roll up our sleeves and make this delicious soup!
How to Make Copycat Culver’s Stuffed Pepper Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
-
Brown the Meat: In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Make sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once the beef is well browned, drain any excess fat from the pot.
-
Add Vegetables: Next, add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté these ingredients until they become tender and release their delicious aroma.
-
Stir in the Tomatoes: Stir in the can of diced tomatoes, can of tomato sauce, beef broth, uncooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is mixed together well.
-
Boil and Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Allow it to cook for about 30 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the flavors of the soup.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the soup hot and enjoy every flavorful spoonful!
How to Serve That Recipe
This delicious soup is best served hot. You can garnish it with fresh parsley or shredded cheese for an extra touch. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad to complete your meal. It’s ideal for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
How to Store
If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The soup will keep well for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
You can also freeze the soup for longer storage! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will last about 3 months in the freezer. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Copycat Culver’s Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will enhance the flavors of the soup. Whenever possible, choose fresh bell peppers and onions.
- Customize Your Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. If you love spice, add some crushed red pepper flakes for a kick!
- Try Different Proteins: You can replace ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier version.
Variation
- Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian twist, omit the beef and use vegetable broth. Add extra beans or lentils for protein.
- Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or chili peppers to the mix if you enjoy spiciness. You can also use spicy sausage in place of ground beef.
- Creamy Version: For a creamy texture, stir in a cup of heavy cream or sour cream just before serving.
Tips for Success
- Make sure to let the soup simmer long enough for the flavors to meld. The longer you let it simmer, the more delicious it will be!
- Taste the soup before serving; you may want to adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper.
- Use a large pot to prevent splatter and make it easier to stir the soup.
How Many Servings
This recipe yields about 6 servings, making it perfect for a family meal or for enjoying leftovers throughout the week.
Calories and Nutrition Facts per Serving
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 20g
- Fats: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
(Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.)
Health Benefits of Copycat Culver’s Stuffed Pepper Soup
This soup is not only delicious but also packs a nutritious punch. With plenty of vegetables, protein from the beef, and fiber from the rice, it’s a well-rounded meal. The bell peppers are loaded with vitamins A and C, which are great for immune support and skin health.
Is It Good for People Over 60 Years Old?
Absolutely! This soup provides essential nutrients needed for aging individuals. The protein helps maintain muscle mass, while the vegetables contribute to overall health. Furthermore, it’s easy to chew and digest, making it a perfect choice for older adults.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup in advance? Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors deepen. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.
2. Can I use brown rice instead of white? Certainly! If you use brown rice, keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be increased. Brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.
3. What can I serve this soup with? This soup pairs well with crusty bread, crackers, or a simple side salad. You can also top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs for extra flavor!
Now that you have everything you need to whip up this delicious Copycat Culver’s Stuffed Pepper Soup, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and enjoy this comforting dish that brings joy to every spoonful!
