This hearty Southwest Black Bean Soup comes together in about 30 minutes and cooks all in one pot to give you a quick and easy dinner that your family will love! If you’re looking for a meal that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, this soup is perfect. Plus, you can switch up the ingredients based on what you have lying around or use it as a ‘clean out the fridge’ meal. It’s so versatile, and honestly, it’s my go-to recipe on busy weeknights!
The Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 yellow onion: This will add a sweet and savory base to your soup.
- 8 oz. gold potato: I love the creaminess of gold potatoes, but feel free to swap in whatever potatoes you have on hand!
- 4 cloves garlic: Fresh garlic is vital here for that aromatic kick.
- 4 cups vegetable broth: This forms the soup’s deliciously warming base.
- 30 oz. canned black beans: The protein! Canned beans are a lifesaver for quick meals.
- 15 oz. can fire-roasted diced tomatoes: Adds that smoky depth of flavor.
- 4 oz. diced green chiles: For a little heat and flavor boost.
- 1 cup sweet corn (frozen): Gives a nice sweetness and texture contrast.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro: The special herb that ties everything together.
- 2 tsp. ground cumin: A quintessential spice in Southwest cuisine.
- 1 tsp. chili powder: Adds warmth and a hint of spice.
- 1 tsp. smoked paprika: Because who doesn’t love a smoky note?
- 1/2 tsp. dried oregano: A magical herb that pairs beautifully.
- Optional toppings:
- Avocado
- Fresh cilantro
- Green onion
- Tortilla strips
- Hot sauce
- Nutritional yeast
- Chipotle crema
- Cashew sour cream
- Fresh lime juice

Feel free to mix this up based on what you’ve got in the pantry!
Let’s Get Cooking!
How to Make Southwest Black Bean Soup
Sauté the onion: Start by dicing your onion and the potato. In a large stockpot over medium-high heat, sauté the onion with a pinch of salt for about 7-8 minutes until it’s all nice and translucent. If you’re trying to keep things oil-free, you can use 3 tablespoons of veggie broth or water, just add a splash more if it starts sticking!
Add garlic and spices: While your onion is cooking, go ahead and mince the garlic. Once the onion is good to go, toss in the diced potato, garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano. Stir everything together and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Bring it all together: Now it’s time to bring the soup to life! Pour in the vegetable broth, and then add in the rinsed and drained black beans, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, green chiles, and sweet corn. Give it a good stir, and get it to a light boil then lower the heat, cover it up, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potato is tender.
Prep your toppings: While that’s happening, chop up your fresh cilantro and get your toppings ready. You’ll want to have them handy for that gorgeous finishing touch!
Make it taste amazing: Before serving, don’t forget to stir the cilantro right into the pot and give the soup a taste! Really, a couple pinches of salt and pepper can make all the difference!
Serve and enjoy: Serve up your warm soup with all your favorite toppings like creamy avocado, a splash of fresh lime juice, and a drizzle of hot sauce. Enjoy every spoonful!

Why I Love This Recipe
This is truly my go-to recipe when I’m feeling a little overwhelmed or just plain tired after a long day. It’s comfort food at its best! My kids absolutely devour it, and I just love how it warms up the house with its delicious aroma really, it’s a cozy hug in a bowl! I’m a real sucker for a good black bean soup, especially because you can use whatever you’ve got on hand. The best part is that it holds so well, making leftovers even more delightful!
If you loved this quick and easy Southwest Black Bean Soup, be sure to check out my Broccoli Cheese Soup, my Easy Witch’s Cauldron Beef Stew, or my Best Lentil Soup!
Why This Recipe Works
Quick & Easy
Comes together in under 30 minutes! Honestly, you don’t have to slave away in the kitchen to whip up something hearty and satisfying.
One Pot Wonder
This meal comes together all in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. You’ll have more time to kick back and relax after dinner instead of scrubbing endless dishes!
Budget-Friendly
It uses affordable, everyday ingredients most of us have in our pantry. Plus, canned beans and frozen veggies are pantry staples that provide tons of nutrition without breaking the bank.
Customizable
One of the best parts is that this soup is super customizable! You can easily swap in different beans, add any leftover veggies, or use whatever spices you love.
Comfort Food
Chock-full of flavors and textures, this soup is loaded with tons of flavor, the kind that warms your heart and soul. Seriously, it’s everything you’re looking for in a cozy meal!
Serving and Storage Tips
What to Serve With This
This Southwest Black Bean Soup is delicious on its own, but I love serving it with some warm tortilla chips, crusty bread, or a simple side salad. You can even jazz it up with a dollop of sour cream or some cheese if that’s your jam!
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. But trust me, it’s so tasty you probably won’t have any leftovers!
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also pop this soup in the microwave (in a microwave-safe bowl) for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Freezer Friendly
Yes! This soup is freezer-friendly. Just cool it completely, store it in freezer-safe containers or bags, and it’ll keep for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Food is really about bringing people together, you know? So, when the days are busy and a chill sets in the air, gather your family around the table for this cozy Southwest Black Bean Soup. So, what are you waiting for? Grab those ingredients and let’s get started! Happy cooking!
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