Pinto Bean Soup Recipe

Learn how to make the best Pinto Bean Soup with sausage, vegetables, and creamy pinto beans. This hearty, one-pot recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep, packed with protein and flavor. Easy to customize for family-friendly meals or special diets!

Ingredients

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon EACH: dried basil, parsley
• ½ teaspoon EACH: oregano, mustard powder
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

Soup

• 1 pound ground sausage (regular, hot, or mild; see notes)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• ½ cup carrots, diced
• 2 ribs celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 (15.5 oz.) cans pinto beans, drained but not rinsed
• 3 cups spinach
• ¼ cup heavy cream (optional)

For Serving

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Sausage:
   • If using sausage links, remove the casings. Preheat a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it apart as it browns. When the sausage is halfway cooked, reduce the heat to medium-low and partially cover the pot. Stir occasionally and cook until fully browned, about 10-12 minutes total.
   • Transfer the cooked sausage to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving 1 tablespoon of drippings in the pot. (If drippings are insufficient, substitute with butter.)
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   • Add 1 tablespoon of reserved drippings and 2 tablespoons of butter to the pot over medium heat. Stir in the diced onions, celery, and carrots. Cook for 4 minutes, then add the garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.
3. Incorporate the Flour:
   • Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Add Seasonings and Base:
   • Stir in the hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, dried seasonings, and pinto beans. Pour in the chicken broth and use a silicone spatula to scrape and deglaze the bottom of the pot for extra flavor. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
5. Simmer the Soup:
   • Partially cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes. Add the cooked sausage back into the pot and simmer for another 10 minutes. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Finish and Serve:
   • If desired, stir in ¼ cup heavy cream for a richer texture. Ladle the soup into serving bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if using. Enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Hearty: Packed with flavorful sausage, tender vegetables, and creamy beans.
• Nutrient-Dense: Loaded with protein, fiber, and vitamins thanks to the pinto beans and spinach.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the seasonings and ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup for maximum satisfaction.

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Tips

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or basil can elevate the flavor if available.
• Deglaze Thoroughly: Scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the pot adds depth to the soup.
• Simmer Gently: Keeping the heat low while simmering ensures the flavors meld beautifully without overcooking the vegetables.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Alternatives: Swap sausage for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based sausage for a different twist.
• Vegetable Additions: Add diced zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans for more texture.
• Spice Level: Adjust the hot sauce or use mild sausage for a less spicy version.
• Dairy-Free: Skip the heavy cream or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

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FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this soup? Absolutely. Let the soup cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What if I don’t have mustard powder? You can omit it, but a small amount of Dijon mustard can be a good substitute.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread or cornbread for dipping.
• Pair with a simple side salad for a complete meal.
• Top with extra Parmesan cheese, croutons, or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.

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Enjoy this hearty and satisfying Pinto Bean Soup—perfect for a cozy meal at any time of the year!