Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

If you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying dish that warms you from the inside out, let me introduce you to my favorite comfort food: Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup. This soup is packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of tender pinto beans, zesty green chiles, and savory beef. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where everyone gathers around the table. Trust me, once you make this delicious soup, it will quickly become a staple in your home!

One of the best things about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. You can have a pot simmering on the stove while you catch up on your favorite show or help the kids with their homework. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—everyone in the family can customize their bowls with their favorite toppings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a flavorful soup ready to enjoy.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a warm bowl of soup! It’s sure to please even picky eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This soup keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber from pinto beans, it’s both filling and healthy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup, you’ll need some wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll gather:

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 parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or corn for extra color and crunch.
• Spice it up: Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper if you like a little heat.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute beef with vegetable broth and add more beans or lentils.

How to Make Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, cook your ground beef until it’s browned. This step is crucial because browning adds depth of flavor to your soup. If there’s excess fat, be sure to drain it off so your soup doesn’t become greasy.

Step 2: Add Onion

Next, stir in the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Sautéing the onions brings out their natural sweetness and adds an aromatic base that enhances all other flavors in the soup.

Step 3: Season

Now it’s time to season! Add chili powder, cumin (if you’re using it), smoked paprika (if desired), salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is combined. This step infuses your soup with warmth and depth.

Step 4: Add Beans and Liquids

Pour in your cooked pinto beans along with the diced tomatoes with green chilies, diced green chilies, and beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine. This mixture creates that wonderful heartiness we all crave in a good soup.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Cover your pot and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Taste and Finish

After simmering, taste your soup and adjust seasoning as needed. If you’d like a thicker consistency, mash a few beans against the side of the pot and stir them back in—this gives an incredible creamy texture without any cream!

Step 7: Serve

Ladle your delicious Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup into bowls. Top each serving with fresh chopped cilantro or squeeze some lime juice on top for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

Making this soup is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you can take it to the next level!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh ingredients like onions and herbs. Fresh produce enhances the flavor and nutritional value of your soup.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of chili powder and green chilies based on your taste preference. This way, you can make the soup milder or spicier to suit your family’s palate.

• Experiment with Add-Ins: Consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added texture and flavor. This not only increases the nutritional value but also makes your soup heartier.

• Let It Rest: If time allows, let the soup sit for a while after cooking. The flavors will meld together beautifully, creating a richer taste experience when it’s time to serve.

• Make It Ahead: This soup freezes well! Double the recipe and store leftovers in airtight containers. You’ll have a delicious meal ready for busy days ahead.

How to Serve Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

Serving this comforting soup can be as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present it beautifully at your dining table.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Adds freshness and a pop of color that brightens up each bowl.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice right before eating gives a zesty kick that enhances all the flavors.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and pairs perfectly with the spice of the soup.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: A warm slice of cornbread complements this soup perfectly, balancing its savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips provide a delightful contrast in texture and make for a fun dipping experience!
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette pairs well by adding freshness alongside the hearty soup.
• Rice or quinoa: Serving the soup over rice or quinoa transforms it into an even more filling meal while adding additional nutrients.

Enjoy crafting this Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup, and don’t hesitate to personalize it according to your taste! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

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

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool to room temperature.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space 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 stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between.

FAQs

Got questions about this comforting recipe? Here are some common queries!

What can I serve with Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup?

Pairing this flavorful soup with crusty bread, a side salad, or even tortilla chips can enhance your meal experience. Enjoy dipping or scooping!

Can I make Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup is great for meal prep. You can store leftovers in the fridge or freeze them for future meals without sacrificing flavor.

Is there a vegetarian option for Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup?

Yes! You can replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a satisfying vegetarian version.

How can I adjust the spiciness of Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup?

To control the heat, start by using mild diced green chilies. You can always add more chili powder or hot sauce later based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm bowl of comfort that brings friends and family together. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as part of your weekly meal prep, I’m excited for you to savor every bite. Happy cooking!