Name: Pinto Bean and Rice Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional); 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed; 1/2 cup uncooked long-grain white or brown rice; 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional); Fresh cilantro, optional

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If you are craving a warm, nourishing meal that feels like a big, comforting hug in a bowl, this Pinto Bean and Rice Soup Recipe is just what you need. It’s a delicious, hearty, and budget-friendly soup filled with tender pinto beans, fluffy rice, and a fragrant blend of spices that bring everything together beautifully. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead, this soup is as versatile as it is satisfying. You’ll love how every spoonful is packed with wholesome flavors and textures that feel like home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a collection of ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. There are several white bowls filled with food: one bowl contains dark brown beans, another has chunky red tomatoes, a third holds a light brown broth, and one smaller bowl contains white sour cream. There is also a small wooden bowl filled with shredded cheese. On the surface, there are two small golden spoons with green and brown spices, a small black bowl with coarse salt, three cloves of garlic, two small yellow onions, a bright yellow corn cob, fresh green coriander leaves, a small light tan bowl with olive oil, and a silver pepper shaker. All items are neatly spread out with a clean and bright look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To create this wonderful Pinto Bean and Rice Soup Recipe, you’ll use simple, everyday ingredients that come together effortlessly to build layers of flavor. Each item plays an important role — from the earthy pinto beans to the spices that add warmth and depth, and the rice that brings hearty texture and body to the soup.

Olive oil: Helps sauté the aromatics and adds a subtle, fruity richness.
Small onion, diced: Provides a sweet, savory base for the soup’s flavor.
Garlic, minced: Adds a punch of fragrant, savory depth.
Ground cumin: Brings warm, earthy notes essential to Southwestern cuisine.
Smoked paprika: Offers smoky complexity that makes this soup truly inviting.
Chili powder (optional): Adds a gentle kick of heat without overpowering the dish.
Pinto beans, drained and rinsed: The star ingredient, providing protein and creaminess.
Uncooked long-grain white or brown rice: Absorbs the broth and gives substance to the soup.
Vegetable or chicken broth: Forms the flavorful liquid base, tying all elements together.
Diced tomatoes: Bring a subtle acidity and sweetness to brighten the soup.
Salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
Black pepper: Adds a mild spice and depth.
Lime juice (optional): Adds a fresh, zesty finish that wakes up the flavors.
Fresh cilantro (optional): Offers a bright, herbaceous garnish.

How to Make Pinto Bean and Rice Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once warm, add the diced onion and cook it gently until it softens and becomes translucent, about 4 minutes. This step unlocks the natural sweetness of the onion and forms a flavorful base for the soup.

Step 2: Build the Spice Layer

Stir in the minced garlic along with ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder if you’re using it. Cook this mixture for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This quick toasting of the spices helps release their essential oils and deepens their flavors, giving your soup that irresistible aroma.

Step 3: Add the Main Ingredients

Now, toss in the drained pinto beans, uncooked rice, broth, and diced tomatoes. Season with salt and black pepper. This is where your soup starts coming together, with the beans adding heartiness and the rice soaking up all those rich flavors.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the pot to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. During this time, the rice will cook to tender perfection, and the flavors will meld beautifully.

Step 5: Final Touches

If you like, stir in fresh lime juice for a bright pop of acidity that lifts the soup’s flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Your Pinto Bean and Rice Soup Recipe is now ready to warm your soul!

How to Serve Pinto Bean and Rice Soup Recipe

Pinto Bean and Rice Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro is a wonderful garnish for this soup, adding a vibrant herbal contrast. You can also sprinkle some shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess, or a few slices of avocado for richness. Each garnish brings its own personality and makes the meal feel extra special.

Side Dishes

This soup shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a crusty piece of bread or warm cornbread to soak up the flavorful broth. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables also complement the heartiness of the soup without overwhelming it.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in rustic bowls with a garnish station where everyone can customize their toppings. For a fun twist, ladle it into small bread bowls for a cozy, edible presentation. This eye-catching setup turns your Pinto Bean and Rice Soup into a centerpiece for casual family dinners or friendly gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps really well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to preserve freshness and flavor. Before serving again, give it a good stir since the rice tends to thicken the broth as it sits.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze leftover pint bean and rice soup for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags, and leave some space for expansion. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture.

Reheating

When reheating, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen the soup to your desired consistency, since the rice absorbs liquid and thickens it. Stir occasionally to heat it evenly and enjoy the comforting warmth.

FAQs

Can I use dried pinto beans instead of canned?

Yes! If you prefer dried beans, soak them overnight and cook them separately until tender before adding them to the soup. This will require extra time but intensifies the flavor and texture.

Is it possible to make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and skip any dairy-based garnishes or toppings to keep the recipe fully plant-based.

Can I substitute the rice with another grain?

You can swap rice for quinoa, barley, or even millet. Keep in mind that cooking times vary, so adjust the simmer time accordingly to ensure the grains cook through.

How spicy is this soup?

The chili powder is optional and used sparingly, so the soup has a gentle warmth without being spicy. Feel free to add more chili powder or cayenne pepper if you like a bit of heat.

Can I add protein like chicken or sausage?

Definitely! Adding cooked chicken or sausage enhances the heartiness of the soup, making it even more filling and flavorful. Stir them in during the last 5-10 minutes of simmering to heat through.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a bowl of warm, comforting soup that nourishes both body and soul. This Pinto Bean and Rice Soup Recipe is one of my all-time favorites to whip up whenever I want something filling, tasty, and simple. It’s perfect for cozy nights, feeding a crowd, or meal prepping with plenty of leftovers to enjoy. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!

Pinto Bean and Rice Soup Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need