Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms both the heart and the belly, you’re in the right place! This Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is a family favorite in my home. It’s packed with flavor and made with wholesome ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends. The combination of tender pinto beans, zesty green chilies, and savory ground beef creates an irresistible blend that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

What I love most about this soup is how easy it is to make. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a hearty meal that not only satisfies hunger but also fills your kitchen with delicious aromas. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your cooking rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just over an hour, you can have a delicious soup ready to serve.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare this soup in advance and reheat it when needed.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a rich, comforting flavor profile.
• Healthy Comfort Food: This soup is full of protein and fiber from the beans, keeping you satisfied.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need to create our comforting Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup!

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

For Garnish (Optional)

• 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 jazz it up with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more vegetables: Toss in some corn or bell peppers for added texture and color.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, add some sliced jalapeños or extra chili powder.
• Go vegetarian: Omit the beef entirely and use vegetable broth for a delicious plant-based version.

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 as browning adds depth of flavor. If there’s excess fat after browning, drain it off to keep your soup from becoming greasy.

Step 2: Add Onion

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

Step 3: Season

Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to evenly coat the meat and onions. This blend of spices infuses your soup with warmth and richness.

Step 4: Add Beans and Liquids

Pour in pinto beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, diced green chilies, and broth. Stir everything together so that all those lovely flavors meld into one delicious mixture.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce heat and let it simmer covered for about 30 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to develop fully while making your kitchen smell amazing!

Step 6: Taste and Finish

Give your soup a taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash a few beans against the pot and stir them back into the mix—this adds creaminess without any dairy!

Step 7: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with garnishes like chopped cilantro or lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy every bite of this hearty meal!

Pro Tips for Making Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

Creating a delicious soup is all about the little details, and these tips will help you elevate your Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can bring vibrant flavors to your soup, making it more aromatic and appealing. Opt for fresh onions and cilantro when possible.

• Adjust spice levels: If you like it spicier, don’t hesitate to add more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños. This flexibility allows you to customize the heat to suit your taste.

• Let it simmer longer: For a deeper flavor, let your soup simmer for an extra 15-20 minutes. This extended cooking time helps meld all the ingredients together beautifully.

• Incorporate leftovers: If you have leftover vegetables or grains in the fridge, feel free to toss them into the soup! This not only enhances the nutrition but also minimizes food waste.

• Store properly: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for later use. Ensure they are in airtight containers to maintain freshness.

How to Serve Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

Serving this hearty soup is as enjoyable as making it! Here are some delightful ideas on how to present this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the soup.
• Lime wedges: Squeezing fresh lime juice over each bowl brightens up the taste and adds a zesty kick that balances the richness of the beef.
• Sour cream alternative: A dollop of dairy-free yogurt provides creaminess without dairy, offering a delicious contrast to the heat from the chilies.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This classic pairing is perfect for soaking up every drop of your flavorful soup. Its slightly sweet taste complements the savory notes beautifully.
• Guacamole with tortilla chips: Creamy guacamole served with crunchy tortilla chips adds texture and a refreshing element alongside your warm soup.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing offers a crisp contrast and balances out the heartiness of the soup.
• Rice: Serve your soup over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside it for extra substance. The rice absorbs some liquid while adding another layer of flavor.

Enjoy making this comforting Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup, whether it’s for a cozy night in or serving guests at your next gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious soup.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label the container with the date, so you know when to use it by.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor and freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries that might help you out.

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

Absolutely! You can brown the beef and onion first, then transfer everything to 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 wonderfully with crusty bread, cornbread, or tortilla chips for dipping. A side salad also complements it nicely!

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

You can substitute ground beef with your favorite plant-based protein or simply omit it entirely. Add extra beans or vegetables for added texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings people together. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it solo, I’m sure you’ll find joy and satisfaction in each spoonful. Happy cooking!