Looking for a delicious, warming meal to keep you cozy? This Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef Soup is the perfect answer. Packed with bold, savory flavors and simple ingredients, it’s a go-to comfort food that’s easy to prepare and ideal for any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 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
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Ground Beef
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally to break it into small pieces. Once the beef is fully cooked and no pink remains, drain any excess fat to prevent the soup from becoming greasy. Transfer the cooked beef to your slow cooker.
2. Sauté the Onion
Using the same skillet, sauté the diced onion until it becomes soft and translucent. The aroma will enhance the flavor base of your soup. Once sautéed, add the onion to the slow cooker with the ground beef.
3. Combine the Ingredients
Add the cooked pinto beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, diced green chilies, beef broth, and chili powder to the slow cooker. Stir everything together to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed and the spices are mixed throughout.
4. Cook in the Slow Cooker
Set your slow cooker to low heat and let the soup cook for 6-8 hours. This low, slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and hearty soup. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high heat for 3-4 hours instead.
5. Serve and Enjoy
When the cooking time is complete, give the soup a final stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—perhaps a pinch of salt or an extra sprinkle of chili powder for added kick. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as:
- Shredded cheese
- A dollop of sour cream
- Diced avocado
- A sprinkle of fresh cilantro
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Effortless Preparation
With minimal prep and the magic of a slow cooker, this recipe is perfect for busy days. You can assemble everything in the morning and come home to a warm, ready-to-serve meal.
Rich, Bold Flavors
The combination of green chilies, chili powder, and beef broth results in a hearty, savory soup with just the right amount of spice. The pinto beans and ground beef add substance, making it a truly satisfying dish.
Customizable to Your Tastes
Feel free to get creative! Add extra vegetables like corn, diced bell peppers, or even zucchini. For those who love heat, a dash of hot sauce or additional chili powder will elevate the spice level.
Great for Meal Prep
This soup stores beautifully. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze individual portions for a quick and easy meal later. Simply reheat and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
- Beans: If you’re using canned beans, rinse them well to remove excess sodium. For an extra boost of flavor, you can cook your own pinto beans from scratch.
- Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth to better control the salt level.
- Toppings: Don’t skip the garnishes! They add texture, flavor, and a pop of freshness to your bowl.
- Freezing: To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Label and date them for convenience.
Make It Your Own
This recipe is endlessly adaptable. For a vegetarian option, swap out the ground beef for plant-based protein crumbles or additional beans. You could even use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter variation. The possibilities are endless!
A Bowl of Comfort Awaits
Treat yourself to the warm, hearty goodness of this Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef Soup. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re simply craving something comforting, this dish is guaranteed to hit the spot. Simple, flavorful, and satisfying—it’s destined to become a staple in your household.
Grab your slow cooker and start prepping this delightful soup today. Happy cooking! 🌟
