Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for cozy evenings or casual gatherings. This soup combines tender pinto beans, spicy green chilies, and savory beef to create a comforting bowl of goodness. It’s not only delicious but also versatile enough to serve as a main course or a side dish. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or something to impress your guests, this recipe won’t disappoint!
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Soup Base
- Seasoning Ingredients
- Optional Garnishes
- How to Make Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup
- Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Step 2: Add Onion
- Step 3: Season
- Step 4: Add Beans and Liquids
- Step 5: Simmer
- Step 6: Taste and Finish
- Step 7: Serve
- How to Serve Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup
- With Fresh Tortillas
- Topped with Cheese
- Garnished with Fresh Ingredients
- How to Perfect Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup
- Best Side Dishes for Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup
- Reheating Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of beans?
- How spicy is this Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup?
- Can I make this soup vegetarian?
- How do I customize my Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have this warm soup ready in under an hour.
- Rich in Flavor: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a depth of flavor that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.
- Nutrient-Packed: Packed with protein and fiber from the beans and beef, this soup is both filling and nutritious.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice levels or add extra vegetables based on your preferences.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prepping for the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having the right equipment makes preparation efficient and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Stirring spoon
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly without spilling over.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients, keeping your kitchen organized.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes preparing the onion and other vegetables quick and easy.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 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
Seasoning Ingredients
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin (optional)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges
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. If there is excess fat after cooking, drain it off.
Step 2: Add Onion
Stir in the diced onion. Cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 3: Season
Add chili powder, cumin (if using), smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well so that all ingredients are coated with spices.
Step 4: Add Beans and Liquids
Pour in the pinto beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, diced green chilies, and beef broth. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
Step 6: Taste and Finish
After simmering, taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. For a thicker consistency, mash a few beans against the side of the pot before stirring.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with optional garnishes like chopped cilantro or lime wedges for an added burst of flavor!
How to Serve Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup
Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is a hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
With Fresh Tortillas
- Warm Flour Tortillas: Serve with warm flour tortillas for a delightful pairing. They are perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Corn Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips add texture and can be used to scoop up the soup, making each bite enjoyable.
Topped with Cheese
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top of the soup for a creamy finish that complements the spices.
- Queso Fresco Crumbles: Add crumbled queso fresco for a tangy twist. It balances the flavors of the soup wonderfully.
Garnished with Fresh Ingredients
- Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and freshness, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the dish and adds a refreshing zing.
How to Perfect Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup
For an exceptional soup experience, consider these useful tips.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality beef to elevate the flavor profile.
- Adjust Spices: Taste your soup as it simmers. You can adjust spices like chili powder or cumin according to your preference.
- Simmer Longer for Depth: If you have more time, let the soup simmer longer than 30 minutes. This enhances the flavors even more.
- Mash Some Beans: For a thicker consistency, mash a few pinto beans against the pot while stirring. This will create a creamy texture without adding extra ingredients.
Best Side Dishes for Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup can take your meal to another level. Here are some excellent options.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the flavors in the soup perfectly.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole served with tortilla chips makes for a tasty appetizer before enjoying your soup.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to spicy flavors and is great for dipping.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: This refreshing rice dish enhances the meal’s overall taste, especially when garnished with lime wedges.
- Salad Verde: A light green salad dressed in lime vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the hearty soup.
- Grilled Vegetables: Smoky grilled vegetables add another layer of flavor and make a healthy side option alongside your soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are a few to watch out for:
Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the beef first can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always brown the meat well before adding other ingredients.
Overcooking the Beans: If you use dried beans, be careful not to overcook them during the initial preparation. They should be tender but not mushy when added to the soup.
Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can result in bland soup. Always sample your dish as it cooks and add salt or spices as necessary.
Using Low-Quality Broth: Using poor-quality broth can impact the overall taste of your soup. Opt for a rich, flavorful beef broth to enhance your dish.
Not Allowing Enough Simmer Time: Rushing through the simmering process means flavors won’t have time to meld together. Aim for at least 30 minutes on low heat.
Neglecting Optional Garnishes: Skipping garnishes like cilantro or lime can make your soup less vibrant. These additions brighten up both flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup
- Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20–25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until fully heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup:
Can I use other types of beans?
Yes, you can substitute pinto beans with black beans or kidney beans if desired.
How spicy is this Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup?
The spice level depends on the type of green chilies used. You can adjust by adding more or less chili powder based on your preference.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace ground beef with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How do I customize my Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup?
You might add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra texture and nutrition. Feel free to experiment!
Final Thoughts
Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows for numerous customization options, whether you’re looking to adjust spiciness or incorporate different ingredients. Try this comforting recipe today!
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Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is a delightful dish that warms both the heart and the soul. This savory soup features tender pinto beans, seasoned ground beef, and zesty green chilies, creating a rich and satisfying meal perfect for cozy dinners or casual gatherings. With its robust flavors and nutritious ingredients, this soup works well as a main course or an accompaniment to your favorite sides. Easy to prepare in under an hour, it is also customizable to suit your taste preferences, making it ideal for weeknight meals or impressing guests at dinner parties. Enjoy a comforting bowl of this hearty soup tonight!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cups cooked pinto beans (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 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
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion and cook until softened.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin (if using), smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Combine pinto beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, diced green chilies, and beef broth. Mix thoroughly.
- Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary; mash some beans against the pot for thickness if desired.
- Serve hot with optional garnishes like chopped cilantro and lime wedges.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
