Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings, this soup combines the rich taste of ground beef with the distinctive zing of green chiles. It’s simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights while still impressing your guests. Enjoy a bowl packed with protein and comforting flavors that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With only 20 minutes of preparation, you can have this delicious soup on the table in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef, tomatoes, and spices ensures a savory depth that elevates this soup beyond the ordinary.
• Versatile Ingredients: Utilize pantry staples like pinto beans and canned tomatoes to whip up a satisfying meal any day of the week.
• Customizable Garnishes: Add fresh cilantro or lime for an extra layer of flavor tailored to your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week, making it a convenient choice for busy schedules.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the ingredients, gather your essential kitchen tools to make cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A necessity for simmering soups evenly and allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping your onion, ensuring clean cuts and safety in the kitchen.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes dicing vegetables quick and easy, saving you time during prep.

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

For Seasoning

• 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

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. Drain fat if needed.

Step 2: Add Onion

Stir in diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Season

Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine flavors.

Step 4: Add Beans and Liquids

Pour in pinto beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, diced green chilies, and broth. Stir thoroughly to blend ingredients.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer covered for 30 minutes for flavors to develop.

Step 6: Taste and Finish

Taste your soup and adjust seasoning as needed. For a thicker consistency, mash a few beans against the pot with a spoon and stir them back into the soup.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls. Top with optional garnishes like cilantro or lime wedges before serving for an added burst of flavor.

Enjoy your delicious Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup!

How to Serve Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

Serving Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup can elevate your dining experience. This hearty soup is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways to suit different tastes.

Garnish Ideas

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds freshness and a burst of flavor.
• Lime Wedges: Squeeze over the soup for a zesty kick.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A creamy addition that balances the spice.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Its sweet flavor pairs perfectly with the spicy soup.
• Tortilla Chips: Great for dipping and adding a crunchy texture.
• Fresh Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the soup’s richness.

Additional Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: Melted cheese on top adds indulgence.
• Jalapeños: For those who like an extra kick of heat.

How to Perfect Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

To achieve the best version of Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup, consider these useful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies enhance the flavor profile significantly.
• Adjust Spices Carefully: Start with less chili powder and add more if you prefer it spicier.
• Simmer Longer for Depth: Allowing the soup to simmer longer develops a richer taste.
• Mash Some Beans: Mashing a few beans will thicken the soup naturally without additional ingredients.
• Experiment with Broth: Try using different broths (like chicken or vegetable) for varying flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

Pairing sides with your Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Cornbread: A classic pairing, slightly sweet and perfect for soaking up the broth.
2. Guacamole: Creamy and rich, it contrasts nicely with the spicy soup.
3. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice adds substance and can absorb flavors well.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Roasting brings out natural sweetness, making them a delightful side.
5. Crispy Tortillas: Great for dipping into the soup or enjoying on their own.
6. Garden Salad: A fresh salad adds crunch and balances out the hearty soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Not Browning the Meat Properly: Ensure the ground beef is well-browned to develop rich flavors. Undercooking can lead to a bland soup.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Taste your soup before serving. Some may like it spicier or saltier, so adjust seasoning to suit your preference.
• Using Canned Beans Without Rinsing: Always rinse canned beans to eliminate excess sodium and improve flavor. This will enhance the overall taste of your soup.
• Skipping the Simmering Time: Don’t rush the simmering process. Allowing the soup to simmer melds flavors together, resulting in a deeper taste.
• Overloading with Ingredients: Stick to the recipe for balance. Adding too many extra ingredients can overwhelm the dish and alter its intended flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before refrigerating for best results.

Freezing Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

• Freeze in portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stir occasionally until heated thoroughly, approximately 5-10 minutes.

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 swap pinto beans for black beans or kidney beans if you prefer a different flavor or texture.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted by using mild or hot diced green chilies. Taste as you go!

How do I thicken my soup?

For a thicker consistency, mash some of the pinto beans against the pot while cooking or add more beans.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

How long does it take to make Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup?

The total time is about 1 hour and 5 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

This Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is both hearty and flavorful, perfect for any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different proteins or spices based on your taste preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x

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Description

Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the robust flavors of ground beef with creamy pinto beans and zesty green chiles. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a delicious way to warm up on chilly evenings. Packed with protein and nutrients, it’s not just satisfying but also customizable—add your favorite garnishes or sides to create a meal everyone will enjoy. With its rich flavor profile and simple preparation, this soup makes for an ideal weeknight dinner that can be served up in no time.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Smoked paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened (about 3–4 minutes).
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; mix well.
4. Add pinto beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, diced green chiles, and beef broth. Stir thoroughly.
5. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer covered for 30 minutes to develop flavors.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning; mash some beans against the pot for thickening if desired.
7. Serve hot with optional garnishes like chopped cilantro or lime wedges.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 315
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 70mg