Fifteen Minute Black Bean Soup

This Fifteen Minute Black Bean Soup is wholesome, easy to make, and packed with amazing flavors. Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free, it makes the perfect healthy addition to any dinner table. for a hands-off version, consider this Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup.

If you’ve been wondering what to do with those lonely cans of black beans that have been sitting in the pantry for ages, you’re in luck. This quick and easy black bean soup is a great way to utilize those extra beans and turn them into a meal that is both incredibly healthy and ultra-satisfying.

Not only that, but it can be whipped up in just fifteen minutes! Unlike so many soup recipes that take hours to prepare, this one comes together quickly so you can enjoy a flavorful meal without falling asleep while making it.

Because black beans are so versatile, we tend to stock up on them in bulk in my home. They can be used as the star ingredient in soups, salads, dips, burgers, or black bean bowls. Seriously! This healthy black bean recipe has become one of my favorite ways to clear out the pantry. You probably already have most of the ingredients laying around, so it’s also super cost-efficient.

Whether you’re looking for healthy soup recipes for rainy days or quick weeknight recipes for busy nights, this Fifteen Minute Black Bean Soup guarantees to hit the spot. Garnish it with fresh cilantro, lime juice, and cotija cheese for a meal you won’t forget! Love Southwestern-style soups, try this Healthy Taco Soup as well.

Key Ingredients and Easy Swaps

This dish is made with staple pantry ingredients, many of which you likely have at home already! The key ingredients you will need for this dish include:

• Black beans: Loaded with tons of protein and fiber, these delicious beans are the star of this dish. If you are out of black beans, this also works with other beans.
• Chicken broth: I like to use the low-sodium kind. You can also use vegetable broth to keep this dish vegan-friendly.
• Tomatoes: You will need a can of diced tomatoes for this recipe. If you don’t have any, you can use crushed tomatoes or canned whole tomatoes, but keep in mind this will alter the texture of the soup.
• Cilantro: Fresh herbs like cilantro brighten up the dish and add flavors that pair brilliantly with the rest of the ingredients. If you don't like cilantro, swap in parsley or another herb.
• Chipotle pepper: This adds delicious flavor and a nice kick to the soup. You can adjust the level of heat based on how much of the pepper you add. Swap in fresh jalapenos for a less smoky flavor or roasted red peppers if you don't like spicy food.
• Lime juice: Like the fresh cilantro, lime juice helps to brighten up the dish.

Health Benefits of Black Beans

Known as one of the healthiest legumes you can heat, black beans make an incredible addition to any healthy diet. They’re loaded with protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Because black beans are also incredibly versatile, they’re a popular source of protein for vegans and meat eaters alike. According to Women’s Health, these are some of the top health benefits of black beans:

• Stabilize blood sugar levels
• Fight against heart disease by lowering your cholesterol
• Reduce constipation and bloating
• Support healthy and strong bones
• Decrease the risk of cancer and diabetes
• Aid in weight loss and healthy weight maintenance

Serving and Substitution Tips

These are some of my top tips for servings and substitutions:

• If you want a thicker consistency, you can use an immersion blender to blend up part of the soup so it gets thicker.
• For more of a kick, use a whole chipotle pepper. For less of one, use only half of a pepper.
• For a gorgeous pop of color, garnish the dish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream.
• Some of my favorite side dishes to pair with this dish are rice, quinoa, and cornbread. Try my Cilantro Lime Rice for the perfect side dish.
• To make this recipe vegan-friendly, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It’s just as delicious!
• If you want to add meat to this dish, you can add cooked chorizo or ground beef.
• If you like more veggies in your soup, feel free to add diced carrots and celery when you saute the onions. You could also add spinach or kale at the end and mix it in until it’s wilted before serving the dish.

Black Bean Soup Toppings

There are a variety of toppings that you can use to garnish this soup! You can keep it simple with a touch of fresh cilantro or get creative and add more. Here are some of my favorite topping ideas:

• Chopped cilantro
• Lime juice
• Crushed tortilla chips
• Pico de gallo
• Avocado slices
• Cotija or feta cheese
• Greek yogurt or sour cream
• Fresh chives
• Pickled red onions

How to Store This Dish

Before storing this soup, make sure to let it cool down to room temperature. Once it’s been cooled, you can transfer it to an airtight bag or container and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. To make it last even longer, you can store it this way in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about this dish:

Is black bean soup good for you?

Yes! Black bean soup is loaded with protein, fiber, and tons of nutrients, making it a perfectly wholesome addition to a healthy diet.

How do I store this dish?

This dish can be stored in an airtight bag or container in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.

What toppings can I use for this dish?

This dish works great for any of your favorite Mexican toppings. Some of my top choices include fresh cilantro, lime juice, cotija cheese, avocado slices, crushed tortilla chips, and Greek yogurt.

More Healthy Black Bean Recipes

If you liked this black bean soup recipe, try these next:

• Black Bean and Butternut Squash Tacos
• Black Bean Hummus
• Southwest Black Bean Egg Muffins
• 4 Ingredient Salsa Black Bean Burgers
• Southwest Quinoa and Black Bean Salad