Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

If you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that warms your soul, this Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is just the ticket! It’s one of those recipes that brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in. The combination of tender beef, creamy pinto beans, and zesty green chilies makes every spoonful a delight. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress friends at a casual get-together.

This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. You’ll find it becomes a go-to comfort food in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a warm and filling meal on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good soup, and this one is packed with flavors that appeal to both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Using simple, nutritious ingredients means you can feel good about serving this dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is as easy as pie! You’ll be using wholesome items that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you need:

• 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

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and adjust it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or corn for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add some jalapeños or extra chili powder to kick things up a notch!
• Make it vegetarian: Replace the beef with mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth for a hearty meatless version.

How to Make Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Browning the beef adds rich flavor to the base of your soup. If there’s excess fat after cooking, feel free to drain it off.

Step 2: Add Onion

Once the beef is browned, stir in the diced onion. Cook until it softens—about 3–4 minutes. This step is essential because sautéing the onions brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of your soup.

Step 3: Season

Now it’s time to spice things up! Add chili powder, ground cumin if you’re using it, smoked paprika if desired, along with salt and black pepper. Stir everything well so those spices coat the beef and onions evenly—this will create a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 4: Add Beans and Liquids

Pour in your cooked pinto beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, diced green chilies, and broth. Give everything a good stir to combine all those wonderful flavors together. This mixture will come together beautifully as it simmers!

Step 5: Simmer

Bring your soup to a gentle boil before reducing the heat. Cover it up and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This allows all those delightful flavors to meld together while making your kitchen smell amazing.

Step 6: Taste and Finish

After simmering, take a moment to taste your soup! Adjust any seasonings if necessary; sometimes a little extra salt or pepper does wonders. If you prefer a thicker texture, mash a few beans against the pot—it adds creaminess without needing heavy cream!

Step 7: Serve

Ladle generous portions into bowls and consider garnishing with freshly chopped cilantro or lime wedges for an extra zing! Your Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is now ready to enjoy—perfect for sharing with family or savoring all by yourself!

Pro Tips for Making Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

Creating a delicious bowl of Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is easier than you think! Here are some handy tips to enhance your cooking experience:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and quality ground beef can elevate the flavor profile of your soup, making it more aromatic and enjoyable.

• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a mild soup, reduce the amount of chili powder or skip the smoked paprika. Alternatively, for a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

• Experiment with herbs: Adding fresh herbs like oregano or thyme can introduce new layers of flavor. Just toss them in during the simmering stage for an aromatic boost.

• Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Allowing it to sit overnight lets the flavors meld beautifully, making leftovers something to look forward to.

• Try different beans: While pinto beans are delicious, feel free to substitute black beans or kidney beans for variety and unique flavors in your soup.

How to Serve Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

Serving your Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup can elevate the dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this hearty dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds brightness and complements the rich flavors of the soup.
• Lime wedges: Squeezing fresh lime juice over the top enhances acidity and freshness, balancing the savory notes.
• Sour cream or yogurt: A dollop on top adds creaminess and helps mellow out any spiciness, making each bite delightful.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This classic pairing is perfect for dipping into your soup. Its slightly sweet flavor complements the savory tones wonderfully.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips offer a great texture contrast and can be enjoyed as a side or topping for added crunch.
• Mexican rice: Fluffy Mexican rice seasoned with spices makes a satisfying side that rounds out your meal nicely.
• Avocado salad: A light salad with diced avocado, tomatoes, and onion dressed in lime juice brings a refreshing element that balances the richness of the soup.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’ll not only impress your family but also create memorable meals that everyone will love! Enjoy every spoonful.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it’s also easy to store and reheat for those busy nights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Keep it in a separate container from any garnishes to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label each container with the date and type of soup.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

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

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! Brown the ground beef and onion first, then add everything else 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 soup pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad. You can also enjoy it topped with cheese or avocado slices!

How do I adjust the spice level of Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup?

To increase the heat, add more chili powder or include fresh jalapeños. To reduce spice, use mild diced tomatoes and omit any optional spicy ingredients.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup as much as I do! It’s hearty, comforting, and such a delightful way to warm up on a chilly day. Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings or side dishes. Enjoy every spoonful!