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If you’re craving something comforting, hearty, and bursting with bold Southwestern flavors, the Ground Beef Enchilada Soup Recipe is your new best friend. This soup combines the savory richness of perfectly browned ground beef, the gentle heat of chili spices, and the satisfying mix of beans and corn that bring vibrant texture and color to every spoonful. It’s like enjoying your favorite enchilada in a warm, cozy bowl that’s perfect for any day of the year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, all of which come together to create a harmony of flavors, colors, and textures. Each component is simple but essential, adding depth and heartiness to this delicious soup.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides a rich, meaty base that makes the soup filling and flavorful.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and aroma that enhances the overall taste.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a warm, slightly spicy kick.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies: Delivers tanginess and a touch of heat, balancing the rich beef.
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies: Boosts the Southwestern flair and mild spiciness of the soup.
- 4 cups beef broth: Creates the flavorful, hearty liquid foundation of the soup.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Add earthiness and a creamy texture that complements the beef.
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Provides additional body and satisfying bite.
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels: Adds natural sweetness and a lovely pop of color.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: A must-have spice for authentic Mexican-inspired flavor.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Gives the soup its smoky, mildly spicy character.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Brings subtle warmth and enhances the soup’s rich color.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a slightly herbal, earthy note that rounds out the spices.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Just enough peppery heat to awaken the palate.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics and browning the beef evenly.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Classics topping providing gooey, melty indulgence.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and cool contrast to the spicy soup.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro: Finishing herb that brightens and freshens each bowl.
How to Make Ground Beef Enchilada Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. The warm oil coats the pan perfectly for cooking the onions and garlic, which are the flavor foundation of this soup. Sauté the chopped onion for about 4 to 5 minutes, until it becomes translucent and soft, releasing its sweetness. Then, add the minced garlic, cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning, making sure the garlic’s golden aroma permeates the pot.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add your ground beef to the aromatic mixture. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the meat into nice, even crumbles. Cook the beef thoroughly for around 6 to 8 minutes until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. This step is crucial because the browning intensifies the flavor, giving the soup its hearty, meaty essence. Once browned, drain off any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy and return the pot to the heat.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Chilies
In go the diced tomatoes with green chilies and the additional diced green chilies. These canned ingredients bring a wonderful tang and just the right amount of heat that balances the savory beef. Stir everything together so those vibrant chunks and flavors meld beautifully with the meat.
Step 4: Introduce the Broth and Beans
Pour in the beef broth to create your flavorful soup base. Increase the heat just enough to bring the liquid to a gentle simmer. As it starts bubbling softly, it’s time to add the black beans and kidney beans, which have been drained and rinsed to eliminate any excess sodium. These beans add texture and protein, making every bite substantial and satisfying.
Step 5: Stir in Corn and Spices
Now, toss in the frozen corn kernels for a slight sweetness and lovely color contrast. Then, season the soup with ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, dried oregano, and black pepper. These spices bring the authentic Southwestern flair to the soup, infusing it with smoky, earthy, and herbaceous notes that turn a simple bowl into an unforgettable experience.
Step 6: Simmer and Meld Flavors
Let your soup gently simmer for another 10 to 15 minutes. This step allows all those incredible flavors to marry and deepen, creating a rich, harmonious broth that’s both hearty and comforting. Give it an occasional stir to keep everything mixing well and to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
When the soup is ready, ladle it into warm bowls. Each serving can then be topped with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and freshly chopped cilantro. These garnishes add creaminess, freshness, and just the right tang, elevating the soup to something truly special and memorable.
How to Serve Ground Beef Enchilada Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Toppings are where you can get creative and turn this comforting soup into a vibrant meal. The classic shredded cheddar adds melty richness, while sour cream introduces a silky, tangy element that balances the spice. Fresh cilantro sprinkled on top brings a burst of color and a hint of citrus that lifts the entire dish.
Side Dishes
Pair this soup with some warm cornbread or crunchy tortilla chips to keep the Southwestern theme going strong. A simple green salad with a zesty lime vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast, making your meal feel well-rounded and complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in small bread bowls or cast-iron skillets for a rustic vibe. You can also offer toppings buffet-style so everyone can customize their bowls just the way they like. This dish makes a fantastic centerpiece for casual dinner parties or cozy family dinners alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Ground Beef Enchilada Soup Recipe keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store it in airtight containers to preserve its bold flavors and freshness. It’s perfect for those busy days when you want a comforting meal ready to reheat without any fuss.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully, making it an excellent candidate for meal prep. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, leaving space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing much of its delicious flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator for best results. Warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If reheating directly from frozen, do so over low heat and allow extra time to heat through evenly. Add fresh garnishes just before serving to keep that vibrant crunch and creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well with this recipe. Just make sure to brown it thoroughly, and you may want to add a touch more seasoning to maintain that rich flavor profile.
Is this soup very spicy?
The spice level is mild to moderate due to the green chilies and chili powder. If you prefer it less spicy, you can reduce the chili powder or omit the diced green chilies altogether. For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or textured vegetable protein, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The beans and spices will still create a satisfying and flavorful soup.
What toppings work best with Ground Beef Enchilada Soup Recipe?
Classic toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro. You can also add sliced avocado, chopped green onions, diced jalapeños, or crunchy tortilla strips for extra flavor and texture.
How thick or thin should the soup be?
This soup has a nicely balanced broth that is neither too thick nor watery. If you prefer it thicker, simmer longer to reduce some liquid or add a little masa harina or crushed tortilla chips. For a thinner soup, simply add a bit more beef broth before serving.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Ground Beef Enchilada Soup Recipe, it’s destined to find a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Cozy, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug after a busy day. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and dive into a bowl of joyful, comforting goodness that’s as easy to make as it is to love.
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