There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to wrap you in a cozy embrace, especially on chilly days. This Pinto Beans Green Chile and Beef Soup is a heartfelt combination of hearty pinto beans, zesty green chiles, and savory beef that dances together in the pot. Each spoonful is a comforting hug that reminds me of family dinners gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter. Trust me, it’s my go-to recipe when I need a little extra warmth in my life. Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to make! You’ll love how the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that’s perfect for cozy nights in or feeding a crowd. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Ingredients for Pinto Beans Green Chile and Beef Soup
- 1 pound ground beef – I like to use lean beef for a healthier option, but you can choose your favorite!
- 1 cup pinto beans, soaked overnight – This helps them cook faster and makes for a creamier texture in the soup.
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles – These add a wonderful kick and depth of flavor; don’t skip them!
- 1 onion, chopped – The foundation of flavor; I love using a sweet onion for a touch of sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds that aromatic punch that’s hard to resist!
- 4 cups beef broth – You can use store-bought or homemade; either way, it’s the soul of the soup.
- 1 teaspoon cumin – This spice brings a warm, earthy flavor that really ties everything together.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder – For a bit of heat and a nice depth; feel free to adjust to your spice preference!
- Salt and pepper to taste – Always taste as you go to get the perfect seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Just a little bit to get things started and sauté those aromatics.
How to Prepare Pinto Beans Green Chile and Beef Soup
Now, let’s dive into the magic of making this comforting soup! I promise, it’s a simple process, and you’ll have a delicious pot of goodness simmering on your stove in no time. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be ready to enjoy a hearty bowl of pinto beans green chile and beef soup!
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
First things first, heat up that tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Oh, the aroma that fills your kitchen at this point is heavenly! Sauté them together until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds a beautiful flavor base that’ll make your soup sing!
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Next, it’s time for the star of the show—add the ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it up, stirring occasionally until it’s browned all over, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This creates that savory, meaty flavor we all crave. Make sure to stir well so everything cooks evenly and nothing gets stuck to the bottom of the pot!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now that your beef is beautifully browned, it’s time to bring everything together! Add in the soaked pinto beans, the can of diced green chiles, and pour in those 4 cups of beef broth. Sprinkle in the cumin and chili powder, too. Give it all a good stir to combine. This is where the magic happens—each ingredient mingles together, creating layers of flavor that’ll warm your heart!
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 1 hour. This is the crucial part; simmering allows all those flavors to deepen and develop into that rich, comforting soup we’re after. Just let it do its thing, and don’t forget to stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom!
Step 5: Season and Serve
Once the hour is up, it’s time to season your soup! Taste it and add salt and pepper as needed—this is where you can really customize the flavor to your liking. Serve it hot, and don’t forget to pair it with some crusty bread or warm tortillas for dipping. Trust me, you’ll want to soak up every last drop of this delightful soup!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to comfort food like this Pinto Beans Green Chile and Beef Soup, it’s nice to know what you’re putting into your body! Below are the estimated nutritional values per serving, which is about 1 cup of this hearty soup:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 22g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and specific measurements. But knowing this can help you enjoy your soup guilt-free!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious soup on the stove in no time!
- Hearty Flavors: The combination of pinto beans, green chiles, and beef creates a rich and satisfying bowl that’s perfect for any meal.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is not only comforting but also nutritious!
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze portions for quick meals later. It’s always nice to have a homemade option ready to go!
- Customizable: Adjust the spice levels to your liking or add in your favorite veggies for a personal touch!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this soup is sure to impress and satisfy!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Pinto Beans Green Chile and Beef Soup turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips to elevate your soup game:
- Soak Those Beans: Don’t skip the overnight soaking! It not only cuts down cooking time but also helps achieve that lovely creamy texture. If you forget, you can do a quick soak by boiling them for 2 minutes and letting them sit for an hour.
- Adjust the Spice: If you like a little kick, feel free to add more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños! On the flip side, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the chili powder and balance it with a touch of honey or sugar.
- Get Creative with Seasoning: Besides salt and pepper, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice or a splash of hot sauce right before serving for an extra layer of flavor!
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: Letting the soup simmer for a good hour is key for flavor development. The longer it simmers, the more the ingredients will mingle and create that rich taste we all love.
- Top It Off: Don’t forget to garnish your soup! Fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream can take it to the next level.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers (which I bet you won’t!), let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months!
These little tips can make a world of difference, so keep them in mind as you whip up this delicious soup. Happy cooking!
Variations of Pinto Beans Green Chile and Beef Soup
One of the best things about this Pinto Beans Green Chile and Beef Soup is how easy it is to mix things up! If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to use what you have on hand, here are some fun variations to try:
- Different Meats: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. You could even use shredded rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time!
- Veggie Power: Add in some diced bell peppers, corn, or even carrots for extra nutrition and color. Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for a boost of greens!
- Tomato Twist: For a richer broth, add a can of diced tomatoes or a couple of tablespoons of tomato paste. This adds a lovely depth of flavor and a slightly different profile!
- Spice it Up: Feeling bold? Add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to crank up the heat. You can also experiment with different spices, like smoked paprika or oregano, for a unique twist.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley right before serving for a fresh burst of flavor. You could even use dried herbs during cooking for depth.
- Beans Galore: Mix in other types of beans, like black beans or kidney beans, for added variety and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if you’re using canned beans!
These variations are just the beginning! Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this soup your own. It’s all about what you love and what you have on hand, so have fun with it!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious Pinto Beans Green Chile and Beef Soup, and now you’re wondering how to store those tasty leftovers? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Proper storage is key to keeping your soup fresh and flavorful.
First things first, let the soup cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your soup watery. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days—perfect for quick lunches or cozy dinners!
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the soup! Just portion it into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It’ll stay good for about 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Now, for reheating, the best way to do it is on the stovetop. Just pour the desired amount into a pot and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. If it’s a bit thick after freezing, don’t hesitate to add a splash of beef broth or water to get it back to your preferred consistency. You can also microwave it, but be sure to heat it in intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming.
And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your hearty soup anytime you crave a warm, comforting bowl. Happy eating!
Print
Pinto Beans Green Chile and Beef Soup: 5 Cozy Comforts
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty soup featuring pinto beans, green chiles, and beef.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup pinto beans, soaked overnight
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until soft.
- Add ground beef; cook until browned.
- Stir in soaked pinto beans, diced green chiles, beef broth, cumin, and chili powder.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder.
- Serve with crusty bread or tortillas.
- This soup can be frozen for later use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: pinto beans green chile and beef soup