Three Bean Soup
A hearty, flavorful three bean soup combining ground beef, bacon, and a sweet-tangy tomato base, perfect for comfort food lovers and versatile for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a crock-pot.
- Put the mixture into the crock-pot.
- Cook all day on low heat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding diced carrots or celery. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can also use different bean varieties like black beans or chickpeas based on your preference. If using canned beans, rinse them well to reduce sodium content. This recipe is a great way to use up any leftover meats from dishes like Shredded Barbecued Beef.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Three Bean Soup with crusty bread or cornbread for a satisfying meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top can enhance the flavors. This soup pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside Oven Barbecued Meatballs for a delightful combination that highlights American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Three Bean Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, covering it loosely to allow steam to escape. If the soup thickens, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Three Bean Soup contains roughly 361 calories, with 7g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 959mg per serving (42% 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, this soup can be made ahead of time and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Simply prepare it, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat as needed, and enjoy the enhanced taste.
What kind of beans should I use?
You can use any combination of beans you like, such as pinto, kidney, or black beans. The variety of beans adds different textures and flavors to the soup. Canned beans are convenient, but dried beans can be used if soaked and cooked beforehand.
Is it possible to freeze the soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).