This Mexican Style Black Bean Soup is a hearty, flavor-packed dish made with black beans, vegetables, and bold spices. It’s perfect for a cozy night in, offering a rich, smoky taste with every spoonful. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking for a nutritious meal, this soup is an easy, satisfying choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Full of authentic Mexican flavors
Rich in protein and fiber from the black beans
Naturally vegan and gluten-free
Budget-friendly and made with pantry staples
Quick and easy to prepare—ideal for weeknight dinners
Great for meal prep and freezer-friendly
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings
Warming and hearty without being heavy
Deliciously satisfying for both vegetarians and meat lovers
A perfect blend of spice and savoriness

ingredients

Mexican Style Black Bean Soup 10 This Mexican Style Black Bean Soup is a hearty, flavor-packed dish made with black beans, vegetables, and bold spices. It’s perfect for a cozy night in, offering a rich, smoky taste with every spoonful. Whether you're craving comfort food or looking for a nutritious meal, this soup is an easy, satisfying choice.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Black beans (canned or cooked from dried)
Olive oil
Onion
Garlic
Carrot
Celery
Red bell pepper
Diced tomatoes
Vegetable broth
Ground cumin
Smoked paprika
Chili powder
Oregano
Lime juice
Salt and pepper
Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, sour cream, tortilla strips

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Sauté chopped onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and bell pepper until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
Add cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and oregano. Stir and cook for another minute to bloom the spices.
Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes.
Use an immersion blender to blend the soup partially, leaving some beans whole for texture.
Stir in lime juice and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Add heat: Stir in chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Smoky depth: Use chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy twist.
Creamy version: Add a splash of coconut milk or blend the soup completely smooth.
Meaty option: Add cooked chorizo or shredded chicken for a heartier version.
Chunky texture: Skip blending and enjoy the soup with all its texture.
Topping fun: Try crumbled queso fresco, pickled onions, or crushed tortilla chips.

storage/reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. This soup also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What kind of black beans should I use?

You can use canned black beans for convenience or cook dried black beans ahead of time for a more economical option.

Is this soup spicy?

The base recipe has mild heat, but you can increase the spice by adding chili flakes, jalapeños, or chipotle peppers.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, sauté the vegetables first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Can I freeze black bean soup?

Absolutely. This soup freezes well in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?

Yes, if you’re not keeping it vegetarian, chicken broth adds a savory flavor.

How do I thicken the soup?

You can blend a portion of the soup or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

What toppings go best with black bean soup?

Avocado, sour cream, tortilla strips, cilantro, shredded cheese, and lime wedges are all great options.

Can I add corn to the soup?

Yes, sweet corn adds a nice pop of flavor and texture.

Is this soup vegan?

Yes, it’s naturally vegan if you use vegetable broth and skip dairy toppings.

Can I make it in advance?

Definitely. The flavors deepen after a day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Conclusion

Mexican Style Black Bean Soup is a simple, satisfying, and flavorful dish that works for any occasion—whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal for busy days. Packed with nutrients and customizable to your taste, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.