Pinto Bean, Green Chile, and Beef Soup Recipe 🌟
Packed with hearty ingredients and smoky spices, Pinto Bean, Green Chile, and Beef Soup is a satisfying, flavor-rich dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for chilly evenings. With customizable spice levels and toppings, this one-pot meal is sure to be a favorite for families and gatherings alike.
Ingredients
Soup Base:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for lean beef)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups cooked pinto beans (or 1 can, 15 oz, drained and rinsed)
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles (mild or hot, to taste)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 4 cups beef broth (or substitute chicken/vegetable broth)
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup frozen corn (adds a touch of sweetness)
Garnish & Sides:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Cornbread, tortillas, or crusty bread
Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
- If the beef is lean, add olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Drain excess grease and set the beef aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add diced onion and sauté for 3–5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Build the Soup Base
- Add green chiles, diced tomatoes, and pinto beans to the pot.
- Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Add the Broth
- Pour in beef broth and stir to combine.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Simmer for 15–20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Optional Additions
- Stir in frozen corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a touch of sweetness.
6. Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve with lime wedges and your choice of cornbread, tortillas, or crusty bread for dipping.
Tips & Variations
- Adjust the Spice Level:
- Use mild or spicy green chiles based on your preference.
- For extra heat, add chili powder, cayenne, or diced jalapeños.
- Switch Up the Beans:
- Substitute or mix pinto beans with black beans, kidney beans, or cannellini beans for variety.
- Make It Vegetarian:
- Skip the ground beef and use vegetable broth.
- Add hearty vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Top It Off:
- Customize with shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, tortilla chips, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Bold Flavors: The smoky spices, green chiles, and tender beef create a rich and satisfying taste.
- Easy Prep: Minimal chopping and one-pot convenience make this perfect for busy nights.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients and spice level to suit your tastes.
- Great for Leftovers: The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day!
Serve this Pinto Bean, Green Chile, and Beef Soup on a cozy evening or as a hearty option for a crowd. It’s nourishing, delicious, and guaranteed to warm you up. Enjoy—and don’t forget to let me know how yours turns out! 🍲✨