Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the soul, you’ve come to the right place! Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is a family favorite in my home. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something simple yet satisfying. This soup brings together the richness of beef with the comforting creaminess of pinto beans, all while being brightened up by zesty green chiles. Trust me; it’s a hug in a bowl!

This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving something warm and filling, this soup fits the bill perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Family-Friendly: With its mild heat and rich flavor, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time!
• Nutrient-Packed: Packed with protein and fiber from pinto beans, this soup is both hearty and healthy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup, you’ll be using some simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Let’s gather what you need!

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

One of the best things about this soup is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or corn for extra texture and flavor.
• Change the beans: Black beans or kidney beans work great if you want to mix it up.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add some jalapeños or hot sauce to boost the flavor!

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. Make sure to break it up as it cooks. Browning the meat adds depth of flavor to our soup. If there’s excess fat after cooking, drain it off.

Step 2: Add Onion

Stir in your diced onion and cook until softened, which takes about 3–4 minutes. Sautéing the onions brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of your soup.

Step 3: Season

Add chili powder, cumin (if using), smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine everything. These spices add warmth and complexity that make this soup so special.

Step 4: Add Beans and Liquids

Pour in your pinto beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, diced green chilies, and beef broth. Give everything a good stir to ensure it’s well mixed. This step creates the base of our delicious soup!

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing heat to simmer covered for about 30 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Taste and Finish

After simmering, taste your soup and adjust seasoning if needed. If you’d like your soup thicker, mash a few beans against the pot and stir them in; this gives your soup that lovely creamy texture.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle into bowls and top with garnishes like fresh cilantro or lime wedges. The garnish adds a refreshing touch that balances out the richness of the soup!

There you have it! A delightful bowl of Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup that is sure to warm hearts and fill bellies. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and with these handy tips, your Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup will be even more delicious!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor of your soup significantly. Fresh onions and cilantro bring a vibrant touch that dried alternatives simply cannot match.

• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit the diced green chilies. Conversely, if you enjoy a kick, adding more spices or fresh jalapeños can elevate the heat to your liking.

• Make it ahead of time: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for an easy meal option throughout the week.

• Experiment with toppings: Don’t shy away from creativity! Try topping your soup with shredded cheese (vegan options work well), avocado slices, or even crispy tortilla strips for added texture.

• Consider slow cooking: For a hands-off approach, use a slow cooker! Brown the beef and onions first, then add all ingredients into the cooker. Set it on low for 6-8 hours and return to a beautifully blended soup.

How to Serve Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

Serving this hearty soup can turn a simple meal into a comforting feast for family and friends. Here are some delightful ways to present it!

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds color and brightness that complements the rich flavors of your soup.
• Lime wedges: Squeezing fresh lime juice just before eating adds a zesty kick that brightens each spoonful.
• Sour cream or yogurt: A dollop of sour cream (or dairy-free alternative) offers a creamy contrast to the spiciness and enhances overall richness.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Sweet and moist cornbread is perfect for soaking up every drop of this delicious soup, making it an ideal pairing.
• Tortilla chips: Crispy tortilla chips provide crunch and an element of fun; they can be served on the side or crumbled directly into the soup.
• Mexican-style rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with tomatoes and spices is an excellent accompaniment that rounds out this meal nicely.
• Simple green salad: A refreshing green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the warmth of the soup while adding freshness to your plate.

Enjoy crafting this delightful dish that’s sure to warm hearts and stomachs alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is a fantastic option for meal prepping! It holds up well in the fridge and freezer, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and contents, then freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, use a microwave, heating in short intervals until hot.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about this delicious soup.

Can I use dried pinto beans instead of canned?

Absolutely! If you prefer using dried pinto beans, soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to your Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup. This will enhance the flavor and texture!

How spicy is the Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup?

The spiciness largely depends on the brand of diced tomatoes with green chilies you choose. For a milder soup, opt for a less spicy variety or adjust the amount of green chilies according to your taste preferences.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! To make a vegetarian version of Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup, simply replace the ground beef with your favorite plant-based protein or omit it entirely. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for added flavor.

What can I serve with this soup?

This hearty soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple side salad. You can also top it with avocado slices or crispy tortilla strips for extra crunch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup as much as I do! It’s warm, comforting, and packed full of flavors that will surely become a family favorite. Whether you’re meal prepping or just looking for something delicious to whip up quickly, this recipe has got you covered. Happy cooking!