Ground Beef Enchilada Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the comforting warmth of Ground Beef Enchilada Soup on a chilly evening. With its rich, smoky flavors and hearty texture, this soup is like a hug in a bowl. The combination of tender ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and a medley of beans and vegetables creates a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

this Recipe

I first made this recipe when I was craving enchiladas but didn’t have the energy for all the assembly. What started as a lazy dinner hack has now become a family favorite. It's perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or cozy weekends spent at home.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Enchilada Soup

Get ready to meet your new go-to soup recipe. Ground Beef Enchilada Soup has everything you love about classic enchiladas, but in a quicker, one-pot form.

First, it’s ridiculously easy to make. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up this flavorful soup in under 30 minutes. It’s the ultimate recipe for when you’re short on time but still want something hearty and homemade.

This soup is also budget-friendly. By using affordable ingredients like ground beef, canned beans, and frozen corn, you can feed a crowd without breaking the bank.

Did I mention it’s incredibly versatile? Whether you want to spice it up, add extra veggies, or make it dairy-free, this recipe adapts beautifully to your preferences.

And finally, the flavor is simply out of this world. The combination of bold enchilada sauce, tender beef, and creamy toppings like sour cream and shredded cheese will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this soup lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one works together to create a hearty, satisfying meal you’ll want to make again and again.

• Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) for the perfect balance of flavor and texture. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken works just as well.
• Enchilada Sauce: The star of the show! Choose your favorite brand or make your own for a truly customized flavor. I usually opt for medium-spicy red enchilada sauce, but green enchilada sauce works too.
• Beans: Both black beans and pinto beans add a lovely creaminess and a boost of protein. Rinse and drain them before adding to the soup.
• Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: These bring a tangy, slightly spicy kick to the broth. If you’re not a fan of heat, plain diced tomatoes are a great alternative.
• Corn: Frozen or canned corn kernels add a touch of sweetness and color. Fresh corn works too when it’s in season!
• Broth: Chicken or beef broth creates a flavorful base. For a richer soup, use low-sodium beef broth.
• Seasonings: A blend of chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder gives the soup its signature Tex-Mex flair.

How to Make This Ground Beef Enchilada Soup

Making Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is as simple as it gets. Let me walk you through the steps:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil, then cook the ground beef, breaking it into crumbles. Once browned, drain any excess grease and return the beef to the pot.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Toss in some diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions turn translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the Liquids and Seasonings: Stir in the enchilada sauce, broth, and seasonings. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Incorporate the Veggies and Beans: Add the beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies to the pot. Let everything simmer for another 10-15 minutes. This is the perfect time to taste and adjust the seasoning.
5. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes, like shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, or crushed tortilla chips.

This soup comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights or whenever you need a quick, comforting meal.

Storage Options

One of the best things about this soup is how well it stores. It’s perfect for meal prep or leftovers!

• Refrigerator: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
• Freezer: Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.
• Reheating Tips: Add a splash of broth or water when reheating to loosen up the soup, as it tends to thicken as it sits.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as flexible as it is delicious. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Spicier Version: Add diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers in adobo, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or extra beans, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth.
• Creamy Twist: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or heavy cream at the end for a rich, creamy broth.
• Taco-Inspired: Add a packet of taco seasoning to amp up the flavor.
• Low-Carb: Skip the beans and corn and add diced zucchini or cauliflower rice instead.

Don’t be afraid to experiment – this soup is incredibly forgiving and adaptable.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re craving something cozy on a chilly night or need a quick, hearty meal for the family, Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is the answer. With bold flavors, easy prep, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket.

So grab your favorite soup pot, and let’s get cooking – your taste buds will thank you!

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