Pinto Bean, Green Chile, and Beef Soup

 

This hearty soup combines tender beef, pinto beans, and green chiles to deliver a bold, smoky flavor that's perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. Easy to customize and packed with wholesome ingredients, it's a satisfying one-pot meal that everyone will love!

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Ingredients

Soup Base:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for lean beef)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups cooked pinto beans (or 1 can, 15 oz, rinsed and drained)
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles (choose mild or spicy to suit your taste)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (including juices)
• 4 cups beef broth (or substitute with chicken or vegetable broth)

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup frozen corn (adds a touch of sweetness)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Beef:

• Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
• If using lean beef, add olive oil to prevent sticking. Drain any excess fat.

2. Sauté Aromatics:

• Add diced onion to the pot and sauté for 3–5 minutes until softened.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, until fragrant.

3. Build the Base:

• Mix in the green chiles, diced tomatoes, and pinto beans.
• Add cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if desired), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

4. Simmer:

• Pour in the beef broth and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
• Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

5. Optional Additions:

• Stir in frozen corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added sweetness and texture.

6. Serve:

• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro.
• Serve with lime wedges for a zesty finish. Pair with cornbread, tortillas, or crusty bread.

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Tips and Variations

Adjust Spice Level:

• Use mild or spicy green chiles based on your heat preference. Add cayenne or extra chili powder for a spicier kick.

Swap Beans:

• Mix things up by substituting pinto beans with black beans, kidney beans, or a combination.

Vegetarian Option:

• Replace the beef with diced zucchini or mushrooms and use vegetable broth for a delicious meat-free version.

Toppings:

• Customize with shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, or crushed tortilla chips for extra flavor and crunch.

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Why You’ll Love This Soup

• Flavorful and Smoky: Green chiles and spices create a bold, irresistible taste.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal prep and cleanup.
• Highly Versatile: Easily adjust ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

Serve this comforting soup and enjoy a bowl of goodness that's guaranteed to satisfy! 🍲