Monterey Soup
A hearty, flavorful soup with smoky sausage, beans, corn, and melted Monterey Jack cheese, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for any bean lover or casual dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large soup pot, combine smoked sausage, pinto beans, corn, garbanzo beans, frozen hash browns, diced tomatoes, salsa, and cumin.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and cook for about 30 minutes or until garbanzo beans are fork tender.
- Add water as needed during cooking.
- Stir in shredded Monterey Jack cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding diced bell peppers or zucchini. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the smoked sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it entirely. You can also use black beans or kidney beans instead of pinto and garbanzo beans for variation. Adjust the salsa for desired spiciness, or add a pinch of chili powder for extra heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Monterey Soup with warm tortillas or crusty bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Tex-Mex Muffins or a side salad for a lighter option. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for added flavor. For a fun twist, serve it with a dollop of sour cream or avocado on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. This soup also freezes well; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Monterey Soup contains roughly 1188 calories, with 34g protein, 141g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (78% of the Daily Value), and protein (68% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 other types of beans in this soup?
Yes, you can substitute other beans like black beans or kidney beans based on your preference. Each type will add its own unique flavor and texture to the soup, so feel free to experiment.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider using a spicier salsa or incorporating diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust the level of spice to your taste by starting with a small amount and gradually increasing.
Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Simply combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cheese shortly before serving for a creamy finish.
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).