ground beef pinto beans recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best ground beef pinto beans recipe

I have been making this ground beef pinto beans recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. My family loves it, and it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste. I’ve learned to make it with love, just like my mother taught me when I was growing up.

The combination of ground beef, pinto beans, and spices creates a rich and satisfying flavor that never gets old. One of the things I appreciate most about this recipe is the ease with which it can be made in large quantities, making it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks.

The leftovers also freeze beautifully, so you can enjoy this dish throughout the week. What I love most about this recipe is the way it brings people together – whether it’s a casual dinner at home or a big family gathering, everyone always leaves satisfied.

As a bonus, this recipe is also incredibly healthy – the pinto beans are packed with fiber and protein, while the ground beef adds lean protein without breaking the bank. Plus, you can customize the spice level to suit your taste buds.

My kids have grown up on this recipe, and now they’re making it for their own families. It’s truly a timeless classic that never goes out of style.

Ground Beef and Pinto Beans

4.5 from 1944 votes

A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal featuring seasoned ground beef and tender pinto beans. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and can be served with rice or tortillas.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (80/20)
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (15 oz each) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil

For Garnish (optional)

Fresh cilantro, chopped
Sour cream
Shredded cheddar cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes.
3Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it apart with a wooden spoon.
4Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 6 to 8 minutes, then drain off any excess fat.
5Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
6Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, then add the tomato paste and stir to coat the beef.
7Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the beef broth.
8Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
9Add the drained and rinsed pinto beans, stir to combine, and reduce the heat to low.
10Let the mixture simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld.
11Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
12Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Measuring spoons
Can opener
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 820mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 10g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

For a thicker consistency, mash some of the pinto beans with a fork before adding them to the skillet. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Watch Video Of How Ground Beef and Pinto Beans Works

This ground beef pinto beans recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re planning a family dinner or looking for something comforting after a long day.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can serve it as a main course, add some crusty bread on the side, or even turn it into tacos or burritos for added fun.

When storing leftovers, be sure to label them clearly so you know what you have in your fridge or freezer later on.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef and Pinto Beans

1. What type of ground beef should I use?

In this recipe, I prefer to use lean ground beef (90% or higher). This helps keep the dish healthy and reduces the overall fat content.

2. Can I use other types of beans instead of pinto beans?

While pinto beans are my favorite choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of beans such as black beans or kidney beans. However, keep in mind that each type will change the flavor profile slightly.

3. How do I cook pinto beans from scratch?

Cooking pinto beans from scratch requires soaking them overnight before boiling them until they’re tender. You can also use canned pinto beans as a quicker alternative.

4. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for slow cookers – simply brown the ground beef and add all the ingredients before letting it simmer on low for several hours.

5. How do I store leftover ground beef pinto bean mixture?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.

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