Title
Hearty Southern Pinto Beans with Ground Beef
Introduction
Hearty Southern Pinto Beans with Ground Beef is a warm, comforting dish packed with savory flavors and wholesome ingredients. Tender pinto beans, seasoned ground beef, onions, celery, and aromatic herbs simmer together to create a rich, satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners. Serve it with cornbread or rice for a classic Southern-inspired comfort food experience.
Instruction
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
3 cans (15 oz each) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Method
Step-by-Step Preparation Method (From Start to Finish)
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and celery, then sauté for 5 to 6 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Season the beef with smoked paprika, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper.
Pour in the beef broth and stir well to combine all the flavors.
Add the drained pinto beans and gently mix everything together.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
Cover and cook for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to blend and the broth to thicken slightly.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Stir in the chopped fresh parsley just before serving.
Serve hot with cornbread, rice, or crusty bread.
Benefits
Excellent source of protein from the beef and beans.
High in dietary fiber to support healthy digestion.
Rich in iron, potassium, and B vitamins.
A filling, budget-friendly meal for the whole family.
Easy to prepare and ideal for meal prep.
Nutrition
Calories: Approximately 430 kcal
Protein: 30 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fat: 21 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Fiber: 10 g
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 720 mg
Tips
Use dried pinto beans that have been soaked overnight for an even richer homemade flavor.
Add diced green bell peppers for extra color and sweetness.
For a smoky taste, stir in a small amount of cooked bacon or smoked sausage.
Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving to deepen the flavors.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Hearty Southern Pinto Beans with Ground Beef is a delicious one-pot meal that’s rich, nourishing, and packed with comforting flavors. Whether served for a cozy family dinner or prepared ahead for easy meals throughout the week, this hearty recipe is sure to become a favorite.