Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef Soup

Craving something warm, hearty, and bursting with flavor? Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef Soup is the answer! This comforting, rich soup combines tender pinto beans, succulent beef, and the perfect balance of smoky green chiles. It’s the kind of soup that will make your kitchen smell amazing and your belly feel oh-so-satisfied. Trust me, one spoonful, and you’ll be hooked!

Packed with protein, fiber, and just the right amount of spice, this soup is a wonderful combination of comfort and bold flavors. Whether you’re serving it up for a cozy family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef Soup

Hearty & Filling

With tender pinto beans, flavorful beef, and green chiles, this soup is satisfying enough to be a full meal. It’s perfect for those chilly nights when you want something that will warm you up from the inside out.

Flavorful & Spicy

The green chiles provide just the right amount of heat, while the beef adds richness and depth. Add a squeeze of lime at the end, and you’ve got a deliciously balanced soup that’s both comforting and exciting to your taste buds.

Easy to Make

This soup is as simple to make as it is delicious. Just simmer everything together in a big pot, and let the flavors meld together. You can let it cook for as little as 30 minutes, or let it simmer for longer to develop even more depth.

Customizable

You can make this soup your own! Add extra vegetables, spice it up with more chiles, or adjust the seasonings to suit your preferences. It’s super flexible and easily adaptable.

Meal Prep Friendly

Make a big batch and store it for later. This soup reheats beautifully and can last in the fridge for several days, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this hearty, comforting soup:

For the Soup:

• Ground Beef: Adds richness and flavor to the soup. You can use lean ground beef or ground chuck, depending on your preference.
• Pinto Beans: These beans are creamy, hearty, and the perfect base for this soup. Canned or dried work, though if using dried, you’ll need to soak them beforehand.
• Green Chiles: The star of the soup! These add a mild to moderate heat and a smoky flavor that gives the soup its signature kick.
• Onion: A bit of sweetness and depth, chopped and ready to be sautéed.
• Garlic: A few cloves, minced, for extra aromatic flavor.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds a little bit of acidity and juiciness to balance the richness of the beef and beans.
• Beef Broth: The base of the soup, providing depth and heartiness.
• Spices: Cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano bring warmth and complexity to the soup.
• Lime: A fresh squeeze at the end adds a bright, zesty finish that elevates the flavors.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 10g
  • Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Potassium: 800mg
• Calcium: 6% DV
• Iron: 20% DV

(Note: Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredient choices and portion sizes.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Instructions

Ready to dive into making this flavorful soup? Here’s how to do it!

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Stir in the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano. Let the spices toast for 1-2 minutes to bring out their flavors.

Step 4: Add the Remaining Ingredients

Add the pinto beans (drained and rinsed if using canned), diced tomatoes, green chiles, and beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The beans will absorb the flavors of the beef and spices, and the soup will thicken as it cooks.

Step 6: Adjust the Seasonings

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra chili powder if needed. You can also add more green chiles if you prefer more heat!

Step 7: Add Lime Juice

Before serving, squeeze fresh lime juice into the soup to brighten up the flavors.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef Soup hot, topped with optional garnishes like chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or shredded cheese. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef Soup

With Cornbread

Serve this soup with a slice of warm, buttery cornbread on the side. The sweetness of the cornbread complements the spicy soup perfectly.

With a Side Salad

Pair the soup with a crisp, refreshing salad to balance the richness of the dish. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would work beautifully.

With Rice

If you want to make it a heartier meal, serve the soup over a bed of rice to soak up all the flavorful broth.

With Tortilla Chips

Crunchy tortilla chips on the side or crumbled on top of the soup add a fun texture contrast.

Additional Tips

Use Fresh or Canned Beans

If using dried pinto beans, be sure to soak them overnight before cooking. You’ll need to add extra cooking time for dried beans, so plan accordingly.

Add More Veggies

Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.

Make it Vegetarian

To make a vegetarian version, skip the beef and use vegetable broth. You can replace the beef with more beans or tofu for protein.

Spice Level Adjustments

If you prefer a milder soup, use fewer green chiles or swap them for a less spicy variety. You can also omit the chili powder or use a mild paprika.

Freezer Friendly

This soup freezes really well! Store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use other types of beans for this soup?
A1: Yes, you can substitute pinto beans with black beans, kidney beans, or white beans. Each will bring a slightly different texture and flavor, but they all work great in this soup.

Q2: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. It’s perfect for meal prep or make-ahead dinners.

Q3: Can I add more vegetables to the soup?
A3: Yes! You can add any veggies you like. Try adding bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach for some extra nutrients.

Q4: Can I make this soup spicier?
A4: Yes, if you like more heat, you can add extra green chiles, a splash of hot sauce, or even fresh jalapeños for more spice.

Q5: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A5: Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute for beef and will give you a leaner version of this soup. You can also use ground chicken or pork if you prefer.

Q6: Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?
A6: Yes, chicken broth works just fine. It will give the soup a slightly lighter flavor, but it will still be delicious.

Q7: How can I make this soup creamy?
A7: If you’d like a creamier version, you can stir in some heavy cream, sour cream, or even cream cheese near the end of cooking.

Q8: Can I freeze this soup?
A8: Yes, this soup freezes really well! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and reheat.

Q9: What can I use instead of lime juice?
A9: If you don’t have lime juice, lemon juice is a great alternative. It’ll still add that nice bright acidity to the soup.

Q10: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
A10: Yes, simply skip the beef and use vegetable broth instead. You can also add more beans or vegetables to make it hearty and filling.

Conclusion

This Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef Soup is a perfect balance of hearty, savory flavors with a touch of heat. It’s comforting, customizable, and simple to make—what’s not to love? Whether you enjoy it as a cozy meal at home or serve it to friends and family, this soup is sure to impress. Enjoy every warm, flavorful bite!

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