Hearty Pinto Bean, Green Chile & Beef Soup

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Hearty Pinto Bean, Green Chile & Beef Soup – Warm, Comforting & Flavor-Packed 🍲🌶️

Introduction

This Hearty Pinto Bean, Green Chile & Beef Soup is the perfect comfort food for cool evenings or whenever you’re craving a warm, filling meal. Made with tender ground beef, smoky pinto beans, mild green chilies, and a blend of spices, this soup is rich in flavor yet easy to prepare. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main course and pairs beautifully with crusty bread or warm tortillas.

Best of all, it comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a weeknight-friendly recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 can (4 oz) green chilies, diced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Tips for Success

  1. Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat, or drain well after browning.
  2. Adjust spice levels by adding more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
  3. For a thicker soup, mash some of the pinto beans before adding them to the pot.
  4. Make it a complete meal by adding diced potatoes, corn, or bell peppers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until onion softens and becomes translucent.
  3. Stir in diced green chilies, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes to release the flavors.
  4. Add pinto beans and beef broth. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors blend together.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  7. Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)

  • Calories: 310
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Dietary Fiber: 8g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 20g

*Nutritional values vary based on beef fat content and broth sodium levels.*

Make It Lighter / Variations

  1. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein.
  2. Use vegetable broth for a lighter, less rich soup.
  3. Add fresh spinach or kale at the end of cooking for extra nutrients.
  4. Top with shredded cheese, avocado slices, or sour cream for extra flavor.

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
  • Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.

Keywords: pinto bean beef soup, green chile soup, hearty beef stew, easy winter soup, 30-minute soup recipe

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