Name: Hearty Black Bean Soup That's Quick and Full of Flavor
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive oil (Can substitute with avocado oil); 1 medium Red onion (Diced); 1 medium Bell pepper (Chopped); 4 cups Chicken stock (Can substitute with vegetable stock); 2 cans Black beans (Drained and rinsed); 1 teaspoon Ground cumin; 1 teaspoon Garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Dried oregano; 1 tablespoon Chili powder (Adjust according to preference); to taste Kosher salt; to taste Freshly cracked black pepper; 8 ounces Smoked sausage (Fully cooked, sliced)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I stood by the kitchen counter, the heavenly aroma of sautéing garlic and spices enveloped me, instantly lifting my spirits. This Smoky Black Bean Soup has become my go-to recipe for busy weeknights, delivering both warmth and comfort in a single bowl. Packed with protein and vibrant veggies, it’s an easy, hearty meal that can be on your table in no time. Whether you’re eager to impress with a nutritious dish or simply need to satisfy your craving for something cozy, this soup also offers a delightful vegetarian option if you skip the sausage. Curious how a few simple ingredients can transform into such a fulfilling delight? Let’s dive into the details!

Why is Black Bean Soup a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.

Hearty Comfort: The blend of black beans and spices creates a warming dish that will leave you feeling satisfied.

Versatile Options: Whether you’re in the mood for a vegetarian delight or want to add smoky sausage, this soup adapts to your cravings effortlessly.

Nutritious Benefits: With 23g of protein and plenty of fiber, this soup is not only delicious but also nourishing.

Perfect Pairing: Enjoy it alongside some warm homemade cornbread or rice for a complete meal that brings everyone to the table.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The rich, smoky taste ensures this dish is a hit, whether it’s family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Black Bean Soup Ingredients

This hearty dish is loaded with flavor and goodness!

For the Soup Base
• Olive oil – Adds richness and depth; can substitute with avocado oil for a neutral flavor.
• Red onion – Provides sweetness and depth of flavor; yellow onion can work as a substitute.
• Garlic – Infuses aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is recommended for the best results.
• Bell peppers – Contributes texture and sweetness; any color works, but green is slightly more bitter.
• Chicken stock – Forms the flavorful base of the soup; switch to vegetable stock for a vegetarian option.
• Black beans – The star ingredient, packed with protein and texture; using canned beans saves time—just drain and rinse.

For the Flavor Enhancers
• Ground cumin – Adds warmth and earthiness to the soup.
• Garlic powder – Boosts the garlic flavor for extra oomph.
• Dried oregano – Imparts herbal notes that balance the richness.
• Chili powder – Provides heat and depth; adjust according to your spice preference.
• Kosher salt & freshly cracked black pepper – Essential for enhancing overall taste.

For the Heartiness
• Smoked sausage – Introduces smokiness and heartiness to each bowl; fully cooked sausage can be added without further cooking.

This Black Bean Soup is not only quick and easy to prepare but also a delightful way to warm your soul!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smoky Black Bean Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 1 diced red onion and 1 chopped bell pepper, stirring frequently for about 4 minutes until they begin to soften. Next, stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, allowing them to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant, filling your kitchen with delicious aromas.

Step 2: Combine and Boil
Pour in 4 cups of chicken stock along with 2 cans of drained and rinsed black beans. Add 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 tablespoon chili powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well, bringing the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until flavors meld beautifully.

Step 3: Blend Soup
Using an immersion blender, purée about one-third of the soup until smooth, ensuring a creamy texture while leaving some beans and veggies whole for heartiness. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a standing blender. Once blended, return the luscious mixture back to the pot, enhancing the depth of the smoky black bean soup.

Step 4: Add Sausage
Slice 8 ounces of smoked sausage and stir it into the soup. Heat on medium for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sausage to warm through and infuse its rich, smoky flavor into the black bean soup. Ensure the soup is bubbling gently as the components meld together, creating a comforting and hearty dish.

Step 5: Serve
Ladle the smoky black bean soup into bowls, and consider garnishing with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of diced red onion for added color and flavor. This step not only elevates the presentation but also enhances the overall taste, providing a delightful finish to your comforting meal.

What to Serve with Smoky Black Bean Soup

Dive into a world of flavors as you create a delightful meal around this smoky black bean soup, packed with warmth and comfort.

Warm Cornbread: Soft and buttery, cornbread complements the soup’s smokiness while adding a touch of sweetness to each bite. It’s perfect for soaking up every drop of the hearty broth.
White Rice: Fluffy and mild, rice acts as a neutral base that balances the rich, spicy notes of the soup. Consider mixing in a few lime zest or cilantro for a fresh twist!
Guacamole: Creamy and zesty, this dip adds a refreshing layer to your meal, while the avocado’s richness pairs perfectly with the bold flavors in the soup. Serve with crispy tortilla chips for that satisfying crunch.
Crispy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for dipping or adding a crunchy texture, these chips bring a delightful contrast to the soup’s creamy consistency. Enjoy them alongside or crumbled on top for extra flair!
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with crisp veggies and a tangy vinaigrette can cleanse the palate, offering a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup. Include slices of avocado or citrus for an added burst of flavor.
Lime Wedges: A simple but effective addition, squeezing lime over the soup brightens the flavors and adds a citrusy zing, elevating your dish to new heights.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top of your soup adds creaminess and a slight tang, making each spoonful even more indulgent and satisfying.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc enhances the soup’s smoky notes and offers a refreshing sip that’s ideal for a cozy dinner.

Transform your meal into a delightful experience with these perfect pairings and make each bowl of smoky black bean soup a moment to savor!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing this smoky black bean soup in advance is a fantastic way to save time on busy evenings! You can sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, cook the soup base (without the sausage) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat the soup on the stove, stirring in the sliced smoked sausage and warming for an additional 5 minutes until everything is heated through. This ensures the flavors meld beautifully while maintaining the soup’s creamy texture, allowing you to serve a delicious, hearty dish with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Black Bean Soup

Fridge: Store leftover Black Bean Soup in an airtight container for up to one week. Make sure it has cooled down to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: To freeze, ladle cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, ensuring to leave some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating: Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave on a low setting. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or stock if needed to achieve desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions: Once reheated, serve your soup hot and consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and presentation.

Black Bean Soup Variations

Explore the endless possibilities to customize your smoky black bean soup, and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!

Vegetarian Delight: Omit the sausage and use vegetable stock instead for a fully plant-based rendition, keeping it hearty and delicious.
Spicy Kick: Stir in diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to elevate the heat, adding an exciting twist that ignites your taste buds.
Zesty Finish: Add a squeeze of lime juice right before serving to brighten the flavors and give the soup a refreshing pop.
Creamy Texture: For an extra creamy soup, blend in a bit of cream or coconut milk after heating, transforming your soup into a luxurious meal.
Flavorful Herbs: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley at the finish stage; this will add freshness and a burst of aroma to every bowl.
Protein Boost: Include shredded chicken or cooked quinoa for added protein, making it even heartier and filling, perfect for a family meal.
Savory Options: Replace smoked sausage with turkey bacon or chorizo for a unique flavor profile that adds depth and satisfaction to every bite.
Richer Broth: Use a homemade stock, like from a Chicken Green Bean stir-fry, to infuse even more flavor into your base.

This soup is as versatile as your cravings—each variation offers a unique twist, ensuring you can enjoy it again and again!

Expert Tips for Black Bean Soup

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality spices can elevate the flavor of your Black Bean Soup significantly, making it more aromatic and delicious.
Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend just half of the mixture. This maintains some texture, ensuring you enjoy the beans and veggies.
Enhance the Flavor: A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving brightens up the soup, giving it a refreshing twist that complements the smoky flavors beautifully.
Be Mindful of Spice: Start with a smaller amount of chili powder to gauge heat levels, and add more if you desire a spicier kick—everyone’s palate is different!
Storage Success: To maximize freshness, cool leftovers to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container. The Black Bean Soup can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for three months.

Black Bean Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of black beans should I use?
Absolutely! Canned black beans are a perfect option as they save time—just drain and rinse them before adding to the soup. If you’re feeling adventurous and have the time, you can also cook dry black beans. Soak them overnight, then cook them in a pot for about 1 to 1.5 hours until tender.

How do I store leftover black bean soup?
To keep your delicious Black Bean Soup fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Make sure it’s cooled down before sealing. This way, you can enjoy its rich flavors again soon!

Can I freeze black bean soup, and how?
Very! To freeze your black bean soup, first, allow it to cool completely. Then, ladle it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags—just remember to leave some space for expansion. When stored properly, it will stay fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave!

What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If your soup ends up thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of stock or water, stirring until you reach your desired consistency. Heat over low and stir occasionally, letting those fabulous flavors meld together even more.

Are there any dietary considerations for the soup?
Absolutely! If you’re preparing this soup for someone with allergies or dietary restrictions, you can easily modify it. Omitting the smoked sausage makes it vegetarian, and swapping chicken stock for vegetable stock keeps it plant-based. Always check labels for hidden allergens, especially in pre-packaged ingredients!

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Very! The flavors of the soup improve over time, making it an excellent dish to prepare a day in advance. Simply store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to serve; the hearty essence will warm your soul all over again!