Ground Beef Enchilada Soup Recipe

There's something magical about a steaming bowl of Ground Beef Enchilada Soup on a chilly evening. The rich, smoky aroma fills your kitchen, promising warmth and comfort with every spoonful. Packed with hearty ground beef, bold enchilada flavors, and a medley of beans and spices, this soup is as satisfying as it is easy to make.

I first discovered this recipe on a hectic weeknight when I needed a quick, one-pot solution to feed my hungry family. Now, it’s become a staple in our home—a perfect blend of convenience, affordability, and unbeatable taste. Let’s dive into why this soup deserves a spot in your weekly meal rotation.

Why You'll Love This Ground Beef Enchilada Soup

Get ready to fall head over heels for your new favorite cold-weather dinner. This Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is everything you need to warm up and fill up on busy nights.

First off, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make. From start to finish, you’ll need just 30 minutes and one pot—perfect for when you’re juggling dinner, homework, and everything in between.

Not only is this soup convenient, but it’s also packed with bold, irresistible flavors. Smoky enchilada sauce, savory ground beef, and the perfect blend of spices create a dish that’s a fiesta in every bite.

Budget-conscious cooks will love this recipe. Using pantry staples like canned beans, corn, and tomatoes, you can whip up a hearty meal for a fraction of the cost of dining out.

Finally, this soup is completely customizable. Whether you prefer it mild or spicy, thick or brothy, this recipe adapts to suit your taste. Add toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or tortilla strips for extra flair.

With so much to offer, it’s no wonder this soup is a hit with the whole family. Ready to make it yourself? Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this soup’s incredible flavor lies in its simple, yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to bring it to life:

• Ground Beef: The heart of this dish, ground beef adds richness and protein. Opt for an 85/15 blend for the best balance of flavor and texture. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey works beautifully too.
• Enchilada Sauce: A star player in this recipe, enchilada sauce brings smoky, tangy depth. Go for your favorite store-bought brand or make your own if you’re feeling ambitious.
• Beans: A combination of black beans and pinto beans adds both heartiness and nutrition. Drain and rinse them for the best results.
• Corn: Sweet corn kernels bring a pop of sweetness and color to the soup. Canned, frozen, or fresh—any will do.
• Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: This pantry staple adds a burst of flavor with a touch of spice. If you want to keep it mild, regular diced tomatoes are a great substitute.
• Spices: A mix of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika infuses the soup with that signature Tex-Mex flavor. Adjust the amounts to suit your heat preference.

No special equipment is needed for this recipe—just a trusty large pot or Dutch oven to cook everything to perfection.

How to Make This Ground Beef Enchilada Soup

Creating this Ground Beef Enchilada Soup couldn’t be easier. Follow these steps to have dinner on the table in no time:

1. Cook the Ground Beef
   Start by heating a drizzle of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles with a spoon. Drain any excess fat for a lighter soup.
2. Sauté Aromatics
   Toss in some diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until the onions turn translucent and fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor.
3. Add Liquids and Seasonings
   Stir in your enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, and broth, followed by the spices. Bring the mixture to a simmer to meld all those incredible flavors together.
4. Incorporate Beans and Corn
   Add the drained beans and corn to the pot. Let everything simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
5. Adjust and Serve
   Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if needed. Ladle it into bowls and top with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve with tortilla chips for dipping!

In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a soul-warming dinner that tastes like it took hours to make.

Storage Options

This soup is a dream when it comes to leftovers—perfect for meal prep or busy weeks. Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigeration: Transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot.
• Freezing: Place the soup in freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating Tips: Add a splash of broth or water to thin the soup if it thickens too much during storage. Warm gently to preserve the flavors.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable, making it easy to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Make It Spicier: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
• Swap the Protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu for a different twist.
• Go Vegetarian: Skip the meat altogether and add extra beans or lentils for a plant-based version.
• Add Rice or Quinoa: Stir in cooked rice or quinoa to make the soup even heartier.
• Experiment with Toppings: Think outside the box with avocado slices, pickled jalapeños, or crushed tortilla chips.

The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility, so don’t be afraid to experiment. Who knows? You might just discover your own signature variation.

Ready to give this Ground Beef Enchilada Soup a try? With its bold flavors, cozy vibes, and easy prep, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite in no time. Enjoy!

Print