Seeking a hearty, flavorful, and remarkably easy meal that comes together in mere minutes? This Pinto Bean Soup Recipe is your perfect answer! Sometimes affectionately known as Refried Bean Soup, this dish is a comforting classic that seamlessly fits into vegetarian and vegan lifestyles. It’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying meal, packed with savory goodness, making it ideal for bustling weeknights or a relaxed weekend lunch.

A Note from the Author

The 20-Minute Soup I Can’t Stop Making!

My culinary love affair with Pinto Bean Soup began serendipitously at a charming local Mexican restaurant. Its creamy texture, rich flavor, and comforting simplicity captivated me instantly. The memory of that bowl lingered, inspiring me to recreate its magic in my own kitchen. Like many good intentions, it took a while to manifest.

One evening, with a fairly sparse pantry containing just a can of pinto beans, refried beans, and crushed tomatoes, I decided it was the perfect moment to tackle my homemade version. I began by whisking the creamy refried beans into vegetable broth, then added the whole pinto beans and crushed tomatoes, letting the concoction simmer gently on the stove.

To my absolute delight, in less than 20 minutes, I had created a soup that not only rivaled that memorable restaurant experience but swiftly became a beloved family staple. It’s a dish that genuinely pleases everyone: the kids eagerly scoop it up with tortilla chips, my husband loads his bowl with melted cheese, and I simply savor its profound and satisfying flavor. This recipe is a testament to the fact that incredibly delicious and wholesome meals don’t require extensive effort or time!

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Pinto Bean Soup

This isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a game-changer for quick, healthy, and satisfying meals. Here are just a few reasons why this Pinto Bean Soup will become a regular in your rotation:

• Effortlessly Quick: From start to finish, this soup is ready in under 30 minutes, making it the ultimate solution for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
• Bursting with Flavor: Despite its minimal ingredient list, this soup delivers a surprisingly deep, savory, and incredibly comforting flavor profile that belies its simplicity.
• Dietary Inclusivity: Naturally vegetarian and easily made vegan (just ensure your refried beans are plant-based and choose vegan toppings), it’s a versatile dish that caters to various dietary preferences without compromising on taste.
• Wholesome & Nourishing: Packed with the goodness of pinto beans, it’s an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, keeping you feeling full, energized, and satisfied.
• Budget-Friendly: Crafted from inexpensive pantry staples, this recipe proves that delicious and nutritious eating doesn’t have to be costly. It’s a smart choice for economical meal planning.
• Endlessly Customizable: The beauty of this soup lies in its adaptability. Easily modify the seasonings, add extra vegetables, or pile on your favorite toppings to create a personalized experience every time.

The Humble Pinto Bean: A Nutritional Powerhouse

Pinto beans are much more than just a flavorful ingredient; they are a nutritional treasure trove, playing a vital role in countless cuisines, particularly Mexican and Southwestern dishes. Incorporating them into your diet, especially in a delicious and easy soup like this, offers a multitude of health benefits:

• Rich in Fiber: Pinto beans are an outstanding source of dietary fiber. This is crucial for maintaining digestive health, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels, and contributing significantly to satiety, which can be beneficial for weight management.
• Excellent Source of Plant-Based Protein: As a robust source of plant protein, pinto beans are fundamental for muscle repair, growth, and overall physiological function. They are an indispensable component for individuals following vegetarian and vegan diets.
• Abundant in Essential Micronutrients: These versatile beans supply a generous amount of vital vitamins and minerals. This includes folate, which is essential for cell growth and function; iron, critical for oxygen transport throughout the body; magnesium, supporting nerve and muscle function; and potassium, vital for maintaining proper fluid balance and blood pressure.
• Supports Heart Health: The synergistic effect of fiber and potassium found in pinto beans actively contributes to cardiovascular wellness by helping to lower undesirable cholesterol levels and manage blood pressure.
• Antioxidant Properties: Pinto beans contain various beneficial antioxidants that combat oxidative stress by protecting your cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals.

By making this delicious Pinto Bean Soup, you’re not just enjoying a tasty meal; you’re also making a smart choice for your health, leveraging the incredible nutritional benefits of pinto beans.

Essential Ingredients for Your Pinto Bean Soup

Creating this incredibly flavorful and easy soup requires just a handful of straightforward pantry items. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the potential for delicious customization. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need, along with invaluable tips and exciting swap ideas:

How To Make This Easy Pinto Bean Soup

This recipe is incredibly simple and delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, coming together in less than 30 minutes. It’s truly an ideal choice for a quick and satisfying meal. Follow these easy steps to create a perfect bowl of Pinto Bean Soup every time:

1. Combine Refried Beans and Broth: In a medium-sized pot or Dutch oven, placed over medium-high heat, combine the canned refried beans with the vegetable broth. Whisk these ingredients together vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth and thoroughly combined. This step creates the essential creamy base and initial depth of flavor for your soup.
2. Add Tomatoes and Pinto Beans: Once the refried bean and broth mixture is heated through and smooth, carefully stir in the crushed tomatoes and the entire can of pinto beans, including their liquid. The liquid from the canned pinto beans is vital as it contributes natural starches that help thicken the soup and adds another layer of bean flavor. Stir everything well to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Simmer and Season to Perfection: Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat slightly to maintain a consistent simmer and continue cooking for approximately 5 to 7 minutes. During this time, stir occasionally, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to prevent any beans from sticking. This simmering period allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. After simmering, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt and freshly ground black pepper. A good starting point is 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of each, but always adjust to your personal preference. Remember, the saltiness of broths and canned beans can vary significantly, so tasting before adding is key!
4. Serve Hot with All Your Favorite Toppings: Once seasoned to your liking, ladle the hot Pinto Bean Soup into individual serving bowls. This is where you can truly customize your experience! Serve your soup with a generous selection of your favorite toppings. We highly recommend classics like freshly shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack for non-vegan options), a dollop of cooling sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, fresh homemade guacamole or thinly sliced avocado, a sprinkle of bright chopped fresh cilantro, and a pile of crispy tortilla chips for dipping.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Pinto Bean Soup

While this recipe is incredibly simple, a few extra tips can elevate your Pinto Bean Soup from great to absolutely exceptional:

• Invest in Quality Crushed Tomatoes: The crushed tomatoes contribute a significant amount of the soup’s overall flavor. Opting for high-quality brands (like those mentioned in the recipe notes, such as San Marzano varieties) can truly make a difference in the depth and richness of your soup.
• Do Not Drain the Pinto Beans: This is a crucial step! The starchy liquid that comes in the can with the pinto beans is essential for achieving the soup’s desirable creamy consistency and adds an extra layer of bean flavor. Draining them would result in a thinner soup and less robust taste.
• Allow for Sufficient Simmering Time: Although it’s a quick recipe, giving the soup a full 5-7 minutes of simmering time allows all the individual flavors to meld and deepen, transforming simple ingredients into a complex and satisfying dish.
• Adjust Consistency to Your Liking: If you find your soup is too thick, simply stir in a little more vegetable broth (or water) until it reaches your preferred consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, you can mash a portion of the pinto beans against the side of the pot with the back of a spoon or use an immersion blender briefly to release more starch, which will help thicken it. Alternatively, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate.
• Control the Heat Level: For those who love a spicy kick, this soup is a fantastic canvas for heat. Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or a finely diced jalapeño or serrano pepper (remove seeds for less heat) along with the crushed tomatoes.

Customizing Your Soup: Endless Possibilities

One of the most appealing aspects of this Pinto Bean Soup is its incredible versatility. It serves as an excellent base for numerous modifications, allowing you to tailor it perfectly to your taste and what you have on hand. Get creative with these fantastic variations:

• Experiment with Different Beans: While pinto beans are the star, this recipe is adaptable to other legumes. Try using black beans for a bolder, earthier flavor, cannellini beans for a smoother texture, or even a mix of your favorite beans for a unique blend.
• Boost with Additional Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and texture by stirring in a variety of finely diced vegetables. Corn kernels (fresh or frozen), chopped bell peppers, or even a handful of fresh spinach or kale added during the last few minutes of cooking would be delicious.
• Broth Variations: While vegetable broth ensures it remains vegan, if you’re not adhering to a plant-based diet, swapping it for chicken broth will impart a richer, more traditional savory base.
• Incorporate More Protein: To transform this soup into an even more substantial meal, consider adding cooked protein. Shredded chicken, browned ground beef, spicy crumbled sausage, or diced ham are excellent choices. For plant-based protein, crumbled firm tofu, tempeh, or textured vegetable protein (TVP) can be fantastic additions.
• Amplify the Spice: If you’re a fan of heat, don’t hesitate to infuse more warmth and spice. Beyond cumin and chili powder, try a dash of chipotle powder for smoky heat, or mix in your favorite salsa for both flavor and a kick.
• Add Fresh or Dried Herbs: While fresh cilantro is a classic garnish, stirring in a bit of dried oregano, a bay leaf during simmering, or even some epazote can introduce more authentic Mexican flavors.

What To Serve With Pinto Bean Soup: Perfect Pairings

This flavorful Pinto Bean Soup is wonderfully satisfying on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a range of sides to create a more comprehensive and delightful meal. Here are some excellent companions that complement its rich flavors:

Pinto Bean Soup Recipe Card

Pinto Bean Soup Recipe

By Chelsea Lords

Get ready to love this Pinto Bean Soup Recipe, also known as Refried Bean Soup! It’s quick, easy, healthy, and so delicious, perfect for vegetarians and vegans alike.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yields: 4 servings

Equipment

• Medium pot

Ingredients

• 1 (15.3-ounce) can refried beans (ensure vegetarian for vegan option, or 2 cups homemade)
• 1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth, if not vegetarian/vegan)
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes (approximately 1/2 of a 15-ounce can, see note 1)
• 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans (undrained, or 2 cups homemade)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Desired toppings (see note 2 for suggestions like cotija cheese)

Instructions

1. In a medium pot, over medium-high heat, combine refried beans and broth. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and thoroughly combined. Allow the mixture to heat through.
2. Next, add the crushed tomatoes and the undrained pinto beans to the pot. Stir all ingredients well to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the soup.
3. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and continue cooking for approximately 5 minutes. Stir occasionally, being sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to prevent any sticking. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed (start with 1/4 to 1/2 tsp of each, then adjust).
4. Ladle the hot soup into four individual bowls. Garnish generously with your favorite toppings. For an optimal experience, we highly recommend melting some shredded cheese (if not vegan) into the warm soup and serving it alongside crispy tortilla chips!

Recipe Notes

Note 1: Crushed Tomatoes Quality: The quality of your crushed tomatoes can significantly impact the final flavor of the soup. We highly recommend using good-quality crushed tomatoes such as Cento Marzano®, Carmelina Marzano Italian®, or Muir Glen® for the best taste. For an added layer of smoky depth, consider using fire-roasted crushed tomatoes, which are charred over a flame before canning, providing extra flavor without any additional work.

Note 2: Topping Suggestions: Elevate your Pinto Bean Soup with a variety of delicious toppings! Our favorites include crunchy tortilla chips, freshly shredded sharp Cheddar cheese (or a vegan alternative), a dollop of creamy sour cream or plain plant-based yogurt, fresh guacamole or sliced avocado, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and a sprinkle of vibrant fresh cilantro. Crumbled cotija cheese also adds an authentic and savory touch.

Storage Instructions: To store any leftover soup, first allow it to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or warm it in the microwave until thoroughly heated through.

Nutrition Information

(Per 1 serving, approximate values)

• Calories: 181 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 1g
• Saturated Fat: 0.1g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g
• Sodium: 1211mg
• Potassium: 471mg
• Fiber: 11g
• Sugar: 7g
• Vitamin A: 343 IU
• Vitamin C: 6mg
• Calcium: 106mg
• Iron: 3mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Pinto Bean Soup

We hope you thoroughly enjoy this quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful Pinto Bean Soup! We’d love to hear about your experience. Please consider leaving a comment and rating the recipe below to share your thoughts!