School Bean Chowder
School Bean Chowder is a hearty, flavorful dish combining tender pinto beans with seasoned ground beef and aromatic spices. Its comforting profile makes it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying mix of savory, smoky, and spicy notes in each bowl.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the pinto beans in 3 quarts of water or more until nearly tender.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon chili powder and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt to the beans while they cook.
- While the beans are cooking, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, and garlic.
- Brown the meat mixture in a skillet on the stove or in a 350°F oven, stirring frequently.
- Add the pureed beans, chili powder, salt, and bread crumbs to the meat mixture.
- Simmer the combined mixture for 15 minutes.
- Combine the meat mixture with the cooked beans. Add more water if needed for desired consistency and seasoning.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced tomatoes or bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or quinoa. Use smoked paprika instead of chili powder for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, canned pinto beans can be used, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chowder with crusty bread or cornbread for a comforting meal. A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast. For a complete dinner, pair it with Easy One Dish Spaghetti for a satisfying and filling spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, ensuring it's heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of School Bean Chowder contains roughly 71 calories, with 3g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (19% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (18% of the Daily Value), and iron (18% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 800mg per serving (35% 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 chowder ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chowder actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it ahead of time, cool it completely, and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to reheat it gently to maintain its texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, add more chili powder or incorporate diced jalapeños. You could also mix in a splash of hot sauce before serving, adjusting to your preferred spice level.
What can I substitute for pinto beans?
If pinto beans aren't available, black beans or kidney beans work well as substitutes. Both will provide a different flavor and texture but will still create a delicious chowder. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly before mixing.
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).