The Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. This comforting soup features tender pinto beans, savory beef, and the zesty kick of green chiles, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Its heartiness and rich flavors will warm you up on chilly nights, while its straightforward preparation makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Soup Base
- Spices and Seasoning
- 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
- Garnish with Fresh Ingredients
- Pair with Bread
- Create a Complete Meal
- 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
- What can I serve with Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup?
- Can I use other types of beans?
- How do I make it spicier?
- Can I make Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup in a slow cooker?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of beef and pinto beans creates a rich, fulfilling taste that is enhanced by the addition of zesty green chiles.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, this soup can be made in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main dish or alongside cornbread or fresh tortillas for a complete meal.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from the beef and fiber from the beans, this soup is both satisfying and nutritious.
- Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the amount of chili powder and green chiles to suit your spice preferences.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Pot: Essential for simmering the soup ingredients together evenly without spilling over.
- Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching the pot’s surface while blending all flavors well.

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
Spices and Seasoning
- 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. 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 incorporate all spices.
Step 4: Add Beans and Liquids
Pour in pinto beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, diced green chilies, and broth. Stir to combine thoroughly.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Let simmer for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 6: Taste and Finish
Adjust seasoning as preferred. For a thicker consistency, mash a few beans against the pot’s side and stir them back into the soup.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle into bowls. Top with optional garnishes like chopped cilantro or lime wedges for added flavor. Enjoy your delicious Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup!
How to Serve Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup
Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Garnish with Fresh Ingredients
- Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbal flavor that complements the soup.
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime enhances the taste and adds brightness.
Pair with Bread
- Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread or a baguette is perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs well with the spiciness of the soup, adding a delightful texture.
Create a Complete Meal
- Side Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal option.
How to Perfect Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup
To make your Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup even better, consider these tips for perfection.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can enhance flavor significantly.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Modify chili powder and peppers according to your heat preference.
- Let it Sit: Allowing the soup to rest for a while deepens the flavors.
- Add More Beans: For an even heartier soup, include additional beans or lentils.
Best Side Dishes for Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup
Complement your Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup with these delicious side dishes that pair well.
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds richness and complements the spices in the soup.
- Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips provide a contrasting texture that enhances your meal.
- Mexican Rice: Flavored rice cooked with spices will round out your meal nicely.
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies add a smoky flavor that works perfectly with the soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices make a hearty side dish.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw can add freshness and balance the warm soup’s flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to make errors when preparing Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Not Browning the Beef Properly: Skipping the browning step can lead to less flavor. Always brown the beef well for a richer taste.
- Overcooking the Beans: If using canned beans, they only need to be heated through. Overcooking can make them mushy. Add them towards the end of cooking time.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your soup bland. Taste as you go and adjust with salt, pepper, or spices.
- Using Low-Quality Broth: A good broth enhances flavor. Choose a high-quality beef broth for a more delicious soup experience.
- Forgetting Optional Ingredients: Garnishes like cilantro or lime can elevate your dish. Don’t skip them for a fresh finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of containers for expansion when freezing.
Reheating Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring every minute until heated through.
- Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup.
What can I serve with Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or rice. You can also add tortilla chips for crunch!
Can I use other types of beans?
Yes! You can substitute pinto beans with black beans or kidney beans according to your preference.
How do I make it spicier?
Add more diced green chilies or include jalapeños during cooking for an extra kick.
Can I make Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Final Thoughts
Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand. Try adding different vegetables or spices to make it your own!
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
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Pinto Beans Green Chile And Beef Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this soup combines tender ground beef with protein-packed pinto beans and the zesty kick of green chiles. Its rich flavors meld together beautifully during simmering, creating a satisfying meal that is easy to prepare. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, and enjoy the comforting tastes that make this soup a favorite among family and friends.
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 chiles
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 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 until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until softened (about 3–4 minutes).
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add cooked pinto beans, diced tomatoes with green chiles, diced green chiles, and beef broth. Mix well.
- Bring the soup to a boil; then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for about 30 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. For a thicker consistency, mash some beans against the pot's side and stir back in.
- Serve hot in bowls topped with chopped cilantro or lime wedges.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg