Tomato Beef and Bean Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tomato Beef and Bean Soup is a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and hearty, making it an ideal comfort food. The combination of lean ground beef and fiber-rich beans adds protein and texture, while the tomatoes provide a delicious base with a rich, tangy flavor. The soup is quick to prepare and can be easily made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. It’s a versatile dish that can be adjusted to suit your taste—add more vegetables, adjust the seasoning, or use different beans. This soup is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

• 4 cups beef broth or water

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for extra flavor)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the beef: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

2. Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent.

3. Add the tomatoes and beans: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Add the kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Stir to combine all ingredients.

4. Season the soup: Add the dried basil, oregano, ground cumin (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix the seasonings into the soup.

5. Simmer the soup: Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat. Once it starts to boil, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally.

6. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. If the soup is too thick, you can add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

7. Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes about 6 servings.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Version: Add diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the soup for added vegetables and nutrition. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic.

• Spicy Version: Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to give the soup a bit of heat.

• Beans Variety: Feel free to swap out the kidney beans and black beans with other beans like pinto beans, navy beans, or chickpeas, depending on your preference.

• Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you prefer a leaner option, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this soup.

• Add Pasta: For an extra filling soup, add a small pasta like elbow macaroni or small shell pasta during the last 10 minutes of simmering.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use other beans in this soup?

Yes! Feel free to use any beans you prefer, such as pinto beans, great northern beans, or white beans. You can also mix and match different types of beans for a more varied texture.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Simply make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the ground beef and sauté the onion and garlic first, then add everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The soup will be just as flavorful and delicious!

4. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes in place of the canned tomatoes. About 6-8 medium-sized ripe tomatoes should be enough. Peel and dice them, and cook them down before adding to the soup. You may need to add a bit more broth to achieve the right consistency.

5. Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! You can add more vegetables like zucchini, corn, or spinach to the soup. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time so the vegetables are tender but not overcooked.

6. Is this soup spicy?

This version is not spicy, but you can add some heat if you prefer. Try adding chili powder, cayenne pepper, or a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.

7. Can I freeze Tomato Beef and Bean Soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

8. Can I use canned chili beans?

Yes, you can use canned chili beans instead of kidney or black beans. Just keep in mind that they may be pre-seasoned, so taste the soup before adding additional seasoning.

9. How do I thicken the soup?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans with a potato masher or blender and stir them back into the soup. Alternatively, you can let the soup simmer uncovered for a longer time to reduce and thicken.

10. Can I add cheese on top?

Yes, adding shredded cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a dollop of sour cream can add a creamy, tangy element to the soup. Garnish with cheese and fresh cilantro for a complete dish.

Conclusion

Tomato Beef and Bean Soup is the ultimate comfort food, with a rich and hearty base that’s packed with flavor. It’s easy to make, nutritious, and can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or making a big batch for meal prep, this soup will keep everyone satisfied and warm. With its combination of protein, beans, and tomatoes, it’s a one-pot meal that’s both delicious and filling!