Step 1

Place pinto beans into a large container and cover with several inches of cool water; let soak, 8 hours to overnight.

Step 2

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir ground beef with vegetable blend and onion until beef is browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes. Drain and discard grease.

Step 3

Combine the beef mixture and pinto beans in a large pot. Stir in chicken broth, tomatoes, bacon bits, Creole seasoning, garlic, salt, black pepper, cumin, mustard, and red pepper flakes. Add enough water to cover. Simmer until beans are tender, adding more water as needed, 3 to 4 hours.