Chili Bean Soup
A hearty and flavorful chili bean soup packed with ground beef, vegetables, and spicy seasonings, perfect for warming up any mealtime. Its rich tomato base and bold chili flavors make it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering comforting goodness with a touch of heat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook beef, green pepper, onion, and garlic in oil until beef is slightly browned.
- Add all ingredients except beans and simmer, uncovered, for 45 minutes.
- Stir in undrained pinto beans.
- Simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
- For a thinner mixture, add hot water as needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef with the spices before adding the vegetables. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. You can also use canned diced tomatoes instead of whole for a smoother texture. Adjust the chili powder to your taste, especially if you enjoy a bit more heat, which pairs beautifully with the Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili bean soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream. It pairs well with cornbread or tortilla chips for a satisfying meal. For a complete dinner, consider a side salad or a light Mexican Soup Recipe to complement the flavors. This dish is also great for meal prep or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the soup. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Bean Soup contains roughly 840 calories, with 27g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (87% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1708mg per serving (74% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pinto beans are traditional, you can use black beans, kidney beans, or even a mix for a heartier texture. Just be sure to rinse and drain canned beans before adding them to the soup.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add more heat, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add fresh jalapeños. A few more dashes of Tabasco or a splash of hot sauce will also elevate the spice level to your liking.
Is there a way to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or sautéed mushrooms and lentils for added texture. You can also enhance the flavor with additional spices and vegetables to maintain a hearty consistency.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).