Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef Soup

Looking for a warm, hearty, and flavorful meal that practically cooks itself? This Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef Soup is the perfect comfort food! Packed with tender pinto beans, savory ground beef, and smoky green chilies, this dish is easy to prepare, incredibly filling, and full of bold Southwestern flavors. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this slow cooker soup will quickly become a favorite!

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 (such as Rotel)
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef.
2. Cook, breaking it into crumbles, until browned and fully cooked.
3. Add the diced onion and cook for another 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
4. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Load the Slow Cooker

1. Transfer the cooked beef and onions into the slow cooker.
2. Add the pinto beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, diced green chilies, and beef broth.
3. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Season the Soup

• Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
• If you like extra heat, add cayenne pepper or extra chili powder.

Step 4: Slow Cook

• Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours.
• Let the flavors meld together into a rich, smoky soup.

Step 5: Final Adjustments

• Once cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

• Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes:
  • Sour cream for creaminess
  • Shredded cheese for extra richness
  • Tortilla chips for a little crunch
  • Fresh cilantro and lime juice for a bright finish

Why You’ll Love This Soup

✔ Hearty and Filling: Ground beef and pinto beans provide protein and fiber, making this soup both nutritious and satisfying.
✔ Bold and Flavorful: Smoky green chilies, chili powder, and tomatoes add depth and warmth without being overwhelming.
✔ Effortless Cooking: Let the slow cooker do the work while you go about your day!
✔ Customizable: Add extra vegetables, potatoes, or corn for variety, or spice it up to your liking.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day!

Tips and Variations

• Make It Spicier: Add cayenne pepper, chipotle powder, or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for added texture and nutrition.
• Thicker Soup: Mash some of the pinto beans or stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste for a heartier texture.
• Swap the Meat: Use ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even chorizo for a twist on flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Add extra beans for protein.

How to Store and Reheat

Refrigeration

• Let the soup cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• Stovetop: Warm the soup over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use dry pinto beans instead of canned?

Yes! Soak 1 ½ cups of dried pinto beans overnight, drain, and add them directly to the slow cooker with an extra 2 cups of broth. Cook on low for 8–10 hours until tender.

2. Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead?

Absolutely! Simmer all ingredients in a large pot over medium-low heat for about 45 minutes until the flavors are well blended.

3. How can I make this soup creamier?

• Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end.
• You can also blend a portion of the soup for a thicker consistency.

4. What sides go well with this soup?

• Cornbread or tortillas
• A fresh green salad
• Mexican rice or cauliflower rice

5. Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Yes! Double all the ingredients and use a larger slow cooker (at least 6 quarts) to accommodate the extra volume.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef Soup is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or meal prepping for the week ahead. With rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and minimal effort, this dish will quickly become a household favorite.