Culver’s Stuffed Green Pepper Soup Recipe

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a warm bowl of soup. But if you’re looking to take your taste buds on a flavorful journey, Culver’s Stuffed Green Pepper Soup is an unbeatable choice. This savory and hearty soup packs the flavors of a classic stuffed green pepper but in a warm, velvety soup form, making it the perfect dish for chilly evenings or any time you need a cozy meal. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just someone who loves good food, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. In this post, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know to recreate this mouthwatering dish at home-from the ingredients and cooking instructions to expert tips and variations.

Culver’s Stuffed Green Pepper Soup Recipe

This recipe is inspired by the version served at Culver’s, a popular Midwestern chain known for its delicious soups. The combination of tender green peppers, ground beef, rice, and a blend of savory spices creates a hearty and filling soup that’s perfect for all ages. The broth is rich and flavorful, and each spoonful transports you right to the comforting warmth of home. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make! All you need are simple ingredients and a little bit of time, and you’ll have a soup that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.

Ingredients Needed

For this recipe, you’ll need the following:

• Ground Beef (1 lb): A lean variety like 90/10 is ideal to get a good balance of flavor without being too greasy.
• Green Bell Peppers (2 large): These peppers add the signature taste and aroma of stuffed peppers, making them the star ingredient.
• Yellow Onion (1 medium): A good onion will add sweetness and depth to the soup base.
• Garlic (2 cloves): Fresh garlic adds an aromatic kick that pairs perfectly with the other savory ingredients.
• Rice (1 cup, uncooked): A staple in stuffed peppers, rice absorbs the broth and flavors, making the soup even more satisfying.
• Beef Broth (4 cups): For a rich and savory base. You can also use chicken broth for a lighter version.
• Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): These provide a tangy contrast to the savory components and bring a slight sweetness to the dish.
• Tomato Sauce (1 can, 8 oz): Adds depth and creaminess to the soup.

• Seasonings

  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (for a slight kick, optional)
  • Italian seasoning or dried basil (1 tsp)
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing the onions, garlic, and peppers, bringing out their flavors.

Cooking Instructions

This soup is easy to make, and you won’t need much more than basic kitchen tools. Here’s how to prepare it step by step:

1. Prepare The Ingredients

   • Dice the onions and green peppers into bite-sized pieces.
   • Mince the garlic cloves.
   • Measure out your rice and set aside.
   • Open the cans of diced tomatoes and tomato sauce.

2. Cook The Ground Beef

   • Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
   • Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
   • Drain any excess fat if needed.

3. Sauté The Vegetables

   • In the same pot, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the onions and green peppers.
   • Sauté until the onions become translucent and the peppers soften, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

4. Add The Rice And Broth

   • Stir in the uncooked rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to toast slightly.
   • Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine.

5. Season The Soup

   • Add salt, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

6. Simmer And Cook

   • Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the flavors have melded together.
   • Stir occasionally, making sure the rice doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.

7. Serve And Enjoy

   • Once the soup is done, give it a final stir and taste for seasoning adjustments.
   • Ladle into bowls and serve with some warm, crusty bread on the side.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this soup plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavors:

• Ground Beef: The base of the soup, providing richness and savory depth. Lean beef keeps the soup from becoming too greasy while still offering that hearty meaty flavor.
• Green Bell Peppers: Their slightly bitter yet sweet taste is the essence of stuffed peppers, giving the soup its signature flavor. You could even use a mix of green, yellow, or red peppers for added color and sweetness.
• Rice: Acts as the perfect filler, soaking up the broth and creating a thicker, more satisfying soup.
• Tomato Sauce and Diced Tomatoes: These two ingredients provide the soup’s body and a subtle acidity that balances the richness of the beef.
• Broth: Beef broth gives the soup depth, but chicken or vegetable broth can also work for a lighter version.
• Seasonings: Salt and pepper are essential for bringing all the flavors together. Crushed red pepper flakes add a tiny kick, while Italian seasoning enhances the depth with hints of basil, oregano, and thyme.

Expert Tips

• Use a Leaner Cut of Beef: Opt for 90/10 or 85/15 ground beef. Fatty ground beef can make the soup greasy, but leaner beef still provides that rich flavor.
• Control the Rice Consistency: If you want the soup to be thicker, use less broth or add extra rice. For a lighter soup, increase the broth and reduce the rice slightly.
• Toast the Rice: Before adding the broth, toasting the rice with the vegetables adds a nice nutty flavor to the soup.
• Stir Occasionally: This helps prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom and ensures it cooks evenly.
• Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it an excellent make-ahead meal.

Recipe Variations

While Culver’s Stuffed Green Pepper Soup is fantastic as-is, you can play around with these variations to suit your tastes:

• Swap the Beef: Try ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of beef for a different flavor profile.
• Add Cheese: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle some shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top when serving.
• Use Brown Rice: If you prefer brown rice, it works great in this recipe but will need a longer cooking time. Be sure to add more liquid to accommodate for the longer cook time.
• Vegan Version: Substitute the beef with plant-based ground meat, vegetable broth, and skip the cheese to make it a vegan-friendly dish.
• Spicy Kick: For more heat, add diced jalapeños or use spicy sausage instead of ground beef.

Final Words

Culver’s Stuffed Green Pepper Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting, savory bowl of joy. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a batch to enjoy throughout the week, this soup is incredibly versatile and satisfying. It’s the perfect balance of flavors with a touch of nostalgia, reminding you of homemade dishes that bring everyone together.