Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms both the heart and the belly, then you’ve stumbled upon a gem! This Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is one of those recipes that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s rich, hearty, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. I love how easy it is to whip up this soup, and it always seems to bring everyone together around the table.

What makes this soup special is its balance of ingredients—creamy pinto beans complement the zesty green chilies and tender beef perfectly. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day, so you can enjoy leftovers without any fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can get this delicious soup on the table in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a warm bowl of soup, and this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prepping! Make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Flavorful & Wholesome: Packed with nutritious ingredients, this soup is not only tasty but also good for you.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful soup. Most likely, you already have many of these items in your pantry!

For the Soup

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 cups cooked pinto beans (or 2 cans, 15 oz each, drained and rinsed)
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin (optional)
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish

• Chopped cilantro
• Lime wedges

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or corn for added color and texture.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, add some cayenne pepper or jalapeños to kick things up a notch!
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with your favorite plant-based meat or simply omit it altogether and add more beans.

How to Make Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. This step is crucial because browning adds depth of flavor. If there’s excess fat after cooking, drain it off to keep your soup from being too greasy.

Step 2: Add Onion

Stir in the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Sautéing onions brings out their natural sweetness and builds a solid flavor base for your soup.

Step 3: Season

Add chili powder, cumin if using, smoked paprika if desired, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine everything. This step ensures that every bite bursts with flavor!

Step 4: Add Beans and Liquids

Pour in the pinto beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, diced green chilies, and beef broth. Mix everything together thoroughly so all those fantastic flavors meld.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring your mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and cover to simmer for about 30 minutes. This slow cooking allows all the ingredients to marry beautifully while filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.

Step 6: Taste and Finish

After simmering, taste your soup and adjust seasoning if needed. If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash a few beans against the pot; they’ll help create that hearty texture we love!

Step 7: Serve

Ladle into bowls and top with garnishes like fresh cilantro or lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

Making a delicious soup is easier than you might think! Here are some pro tips to elevate your Pinto Beans Green Chile and Beef Soup:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can significantly enhance the flavor of your soup. Opt for fresh onions and cilantro whenever possible for a vibrant taste.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you love a bit of heat, feel free to add extra chili powder or even a pinch of cayenne pepper. This will cater to your personal taste and make the soup more exciting.

• Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for about 10-15 minutes after cooking can help meld the flavors beautifully. The waiting time enhances the overall taste and makes it even more enjoyable.

• Experiment with Beans: While pinto beans are fantastic, you can also try mixing in black beans or kidney beans for varied textures and tastes. Each type adds its unique character to the soup.

• Make it Ahead: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, making it an excellent meal prep option. You can also freeze portions for a quick dinner later on!

How to Serve Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

Serving this hearty soup is just as important as making it! Here are some ideas to present your Pinto Beans Green Chile and Beef Soup beautifully:

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice right before eating brightens up the entire dish, enhancing all the spices.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices not only look appealing but also bring a wonderful texture contrast.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This classic pairing is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth. Plus, its slightly sweet flavor balances out the spiciness of the soup!

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch to your meal, making it well-rounded.

• Rice or Quinoa: Serving over rice or quinoa provides additional nutrients and makes for a heartier meal that will keep you satisfied.

• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips can be served alongside or crumbled on top for added texture and fun!

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy a cozy bowl of Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup that’s not only delicious but also comforting! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is fantastic for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week or freeze it for later use. Here’s how to best store your delicious soup:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the soup into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup that might help you!

Can I make Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Simply brown the beef and onion in a skillet first, then transfer them along with all other ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

What can I substitute for ground beef in Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup?

You can use ground turkey or chicken as a lean alternative. For a vegetarian version, try lentils or additional beans.

Is Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup spicy?

The level of spiciness depends on your choice of diced tomatoes with green chilies and green chilies. You can adjust by using milder options or omit them if you prefer less heat.

How can I make Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup vegetarian?

Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein like lentils or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Can I add more vegetables to my Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, carrots, or even corn for extra flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup as comforting and delightful as I do! It’s perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep during busy weeks. Enjoy making this recipe, and don’t hesitate to share it with friends and family! Happy cooking!