Hot Bean Soup
Hearty and flavorful bean soup with sausage, ground beef, and fresh vegetables, perfect for family dinners or comforting gatherings, with a spicy and savory profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sausage and ground beef in a Dutch oven; cook until browned, stirring to crumble.
- Add beans, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, chopped Ro-Tel tomatoes, and salsa to the meat mixture.
- Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using a combination of hot and mild sausage. You can substitute Great Northern beans with pinto or black beans if desired. If you want a thicker soup, mash some of the beans before adding them. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage and beans. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning as needed, especially when incorporating flavors from salsa and Ro-Tel.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Hot Bean Soup with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese on top for creaminess. It pairs beautifully with warm cornbread or tortilla chips for dipping. For a complete meal, consider adding a side salad or serving it with garlic bread. This hearty soup is perfect for gatherings, making it a great choice for game day or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Hot Bean Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This soup freezes well too, lasting up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Bean Soup contains roughly 1896 calories, with 60g protein, 185g carbohydrates, and 104g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (171% of the Daily Value), protein (120% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2241mg per serving (97% 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 make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, Hot Bean Soup can be made in advance and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Simply prepare it, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat thoroughly before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep or for busy weeknights.
What can I add to make the soup spicier?
To increase the heat level, you can add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce while cooking. For a smoky flavor, consider adding chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance, and taste as you go to achieve the desired heat.
Can I use different types of beans?
Absolutely! While Great Northern beans are the classic choice, you can experiment with other types like black beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas. Each will bring a unique texture and flavor to the soup, so feel free to mix and match based on your preference.
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).