Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup
If you’re looking for a hearty meal that warms you from the inside out, you’ve just found it! This Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is not just a recipe; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. With rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Plus, it’s super easy to make, so even if you’re not an experienced cook, you’ll feel like a pro in no time!
What makes this dish truly special is how it balances the savory notes of ground beef with the zesty kick of green chiles. Each spoonful is satisfying and delicious, making it a favorite among both kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, this soup comes together quickly, making it ideal for those busy evenings.
- Family-friendly: Packed with flavor yet mild enough for everyone to enjoy, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Make-ahead convenience: This soup keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day—perfect for meal prepping!
- Wholesome ingredients: Made with simple, nutritious components that you can feel good about serving your loved ones.
- Customizable: With various ways to spice it up or change ingredients, you can make this soup your own!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t need anything fancy for this recipe—just some simple, wholesome ingredients that are probably already in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need to create your delicious Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef 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
One of the best things about this Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or what flavors you love most.
- Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
- Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or corn for added texture and nutrition.
- Spice it up: If you like things spicy, add fresh jalapeños or extra chili powder to pack a punch.
- Go vegetarian: Skip the beef entirely and use vegetable broth along with extra beans or lentils for a filling vegan option.
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 essential as browning enhances the meat’s flavor. If there’s excess fat after cooking, drain it off to keep your soup lighter.
Step 2: Add Onion
Stir in the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Sautéing the onions brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your soup.
Step 3: Season
Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well. These spices bring warmth and complexity to your dish—don’t skip this step!
Step 4: Add Beans and Liquids
Pour in pinto beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, diced green chilies, and broth. Stir to combine everything nicely. This is where all those wonderful flavors start mingling together!
Step 5: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 30 minutes. Letting your soup simmer allows all those flavors to develop fully—it’s going to smell fantastic!
Step 6: Taste and Finish
Before serving, adjust seasoning if needed. For a thicker consistency, mash a few beans against the pot with a spoon and stir them back into the soup.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle into bowls and top with garnishes like cilantro or lime wedges if desired. These fresh toppings add brightness that complements the rich soup perfectly!
Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup with family or friends!
Pro Tips for Making Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup
Making this soup is a breeze, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate it to the next level!
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions and quality ground beef enhance the flavor of your soup. Fresh ingredients bring vibrant tastes that canned or frozen options may lack.
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Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of chili powder and green chilies based on your heat preference. This flexibility allows you to cater to your family’s taste, whether they love a spicy kick or prefer milder flavors.
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Let it Simmer: Don’t rush the simmering process; allowing the soup to cook for at least 30 minutes deepens the flavors. This time gives all the ingredients a chance to meld together beautifully.
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Mash Some Beans: For a creamier texture, mash a few pinto beans against the pot before serving. This technique adds body to your soup without needing any cream or thickeners.
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Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator overnight for a flavorful lunch or dinner option.
How to Serve Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup
Serving this cozy soup is all about creating an inviting atmosphere. Here are some ideas to present this dish beautifully.
Garnishes
- Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds brightness and a burst of flavor that complements the spices perfectly.
- Lime Wedges: Squeezing fresh lime juice over your bowl just before eating enhances the taste and brings out all the flavors in the soup.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top adds creaminess and balances out the heat from the green chilies, making each bite delightful.
Side Dishes
- Cornbread: Sweet and fluffy cornbread is a classic pairing that soaks up the delicious broth while adding a comforting touch.
- Avocado Salad: A light salad with diced avocado, tomatoes, and lime dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
- Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips provide a satisfying texture, perfect for dipping into your soup or munching on as a side.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serving alongside rice or quinoa makes for a more filling meal while soaking up every tasty drop of broth.
With these tips and serving suggestions, your Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup will not only be delicious but also an enjoyable experience for you and your loved ones! Happy cooking!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is perfect for meal prep! It’s not only hearty and flavorful but also easy to store and reheat, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeks.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- For best flavor, avoid storing garnishes like cilantro and lime wedges with the soup.
Freezing
- Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags.
- Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
- For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1 minute, stirring between each interval.
FAQs
Here are some common questions that might arise while preparing this delicious soup!
Can I make Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make this soup in a slow cooker, brown the beef and onion first, then combine all ingredients in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
What can I serve with Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup?
This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread, tortillas, or a simple side salad. You could also enjoy it with rice or quinoa for added texture!
How can I adjust the spice level of Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup?
To adjust the spice level, you can add more or less chili powder depending on your preference. For extra heat, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Can I use dried pinto beans instead of cooked ones?
Yes! If using dried pinto beans, soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to your soup. You’ll need about 1 cup of dried beans for this recipe.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this comforting Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup as much as I do! It’s perfect for cozy nights or whenever you crave something warm and satisfying. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try; I’d love to hear about them! Happy cooking!
Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Description
Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty ground beef with rich pinto beans and zesty green chiles for a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, delivering a burst of flavor in every spoonful. With wholesome ingredients and simple preparation steps, even novice cooks will feel confident whipping this up. It’s versatile too—customize it with your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch. Whether served on its own, with crusty bread, or alongside a fresh salad, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cups cooked pinto beans (or two 15 oz cans, drained and rinsed)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 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
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Season with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper; stir well.
- Incorporate the pinto beans, diced tomatoes with green chiles, diced green chiles, and beef broth. Mix thoroughly.
- Bring to a boil; reduce heat and let simmer covered for 30 minutes to meld flavors.
- Before serving, adjust seasoning if needed and mash some beans against the pot for a creamier texture if desired.
- Serve hot garnished with chopped cilantro or lime wedges.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
