Easy Pinto Bean, Green Chile & Ground Beef Soup
If you’re craving a flavor-packed, hearty soup that’s ready in under 30 minutes, this Easy Pinto Bean, Green Chile & Ground Beef Soup is pure comfort in a bowl! Bursting with smoky spices, tender ground beef, and the zesty kick of green chiles, this recipe is so addictive that seconds are practically guaranteed. Perfect for busy weeknights, cozy dinners, or meal prep!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
1 pound ground beef (lean or regular)
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional if using lean beef)
1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups cooked pinto beans (or 1 can, 15 oz, drained & rinsed)
1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles (mild or spicy)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
4 cups beef broth (or chicken/vegetable broth)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
Salt & pepper to taste
1 cup frozen corn (optional, adds sweetness)
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Lime wedges, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking into crumbles. If using lean beef, add olive oil to prevent sticking. Drain excess grease.
Sauté Aromatics
Add diced onion and cook for 3–5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Build the Flavor Base
Mix in green chiles, diced tomatoes, and pinto beans. Season with cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (optional), salt, and pepper.
Add Broth & Simmer
Pour in beef broth, stir well, and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Optional Sweetness
Stir in frozen corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Serve & Enjoy
Ladle into bowls, garnish with cilantro, and serve with lime wedges. Pair with warm tortillas, crusty bread, or homemade cornbread for the ultimate comfort meal.
Tips & Variations:
Adjust Heat Use mild or spicy green chiles to control spice level. Add extra chili powder or cayenne for more kick.
Bean Swap Try black beans, kidney beans, or a mix for variety.
Vegetarian Option Skip beef, use veggie broth, and add zucchini or mushrooms.
Extra Toppings Shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, or tortilla chips take it over the top!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Smoky & Satisfying The perfect balance of spice, beefy richness, and bean goodness.
Quick & Easy One pot, minimal cleanup, and ready fast.
Great Leftovers Tastes even better the next day!
Weeknight dinners, Meal prep, Cold-weather comfort food
