Pinto Bean Soup

**Easy Pinto Bean & Smoked Sausage Soup** Big comfort, little effort! Tender pinto beans, savory Hillshire Farm smoked sausage, and zesty Ro-Tel tomatoes and green chiles come together in a hearty soup packed with smoky flavor. Creamy avocado slices, crispy bacon bits, and fresh cilantro top off every bowl with the perfect mix of richness, crunch, and freshness. It’s a quick, satisfying meal for busy nights—with all the cozy appeal of something that simmered all afternoon.

Good

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Brown bacon, remove bits, and save a tablespoon or two of fat, then sauté aromatics: Heat bacon fat or oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.

Step 2

Brown the sausage: Add sliced sausage and cook 3–4 minutes until lightly browned.

Step 3

Season: Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Cook 30 seconds to bloom the spices.

Step 4

Add beans and broth: Add the drained pinto beans and 3 cups of beef broth. Stir well. Add bay leaf if using, and add a handful of cilantro. When done, remove it along with the bay leaf, if using.

Step 5

Simmer: Bring to a gentle simmer. Cook 20–30 minutes, uncovered for a thicker stew or covered for a soupier consistency. Add more broth if needed.

Step 6

Adjust & finish: Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove bay leaf.

Step 7

Serve: Ladle into bowls. Serve as‑is or over rice. Garnish with cilantro, green onion, or hot sauce.