Ground Beef Enchilada Soup Recipe

There's something magical about the comforting aroma of Ground Beef Enchilada Soup simmering on the stovetop. Rich, hearty, and packed with bold, zesty flavors, this soup is the perfect cure for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.

this Recipe

The first time I made this recipe, I was looking for a way to combine the irresistible flavors of enchiladas into a cozy, one-pot meal. Little did I know it would become a family favorite, requested again and again.

Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how easy it is to make!

Why You'll Love This Ground Beef Enchilada Soup

Get ready to add this Ground Beef Enchilada Soup to your weekly meal rotation. It's everything you love about enchiladas, but in a fuss-free soup form!

First, this recipe is quick and convenient. With a prep time of only 10 minutes and a cook time of around 30, you can have a piping hot bowl of comfort on the table in under 40 minutes.

It's also budget-friendly! Using pantry staples like canned enchilada sauce, beans, and ground beef, this soup is a delicious meal that won't break the bank.

And did I mention it's perfect for meal prep? Make a big batch, and you'll have leftovers that taste even better the next day. Plus, it freezes beautifully for those nights when you just don't feel like cooking.

Finally, it's endlessly customizable. Add your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado slices, and make it your own. You can even spice it up or tone it down to suit your family's preferences.

Let’s talk about the simple, flavorful ingredients you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Ground Beef Enchilada Soup lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one is carefully chosen to deliver bold, satisfying flavors with minimal effort.

• Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) for a hearty base. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Enchilada Sauce: The key to the rich, bold flavor! Use a good-quality canned red enchilada sauce. For a spicier kick, opt for a medium or hot version.
• Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: These add a zesty, slightly smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the enchilada sauce. If you can’t find this, plain diced tomatoes work too.
• Black Beans and Corn: These pantry staples add texture, flavor, and heartiness to the soup. Drain and rinse the black beans for the best results.
• Chicken or Beef Broth: This forms the base of the soup and enhances its savory depth. Use a low-sodium option to control the salt level.
• Spices: A combination of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder elevates the flavor. Adjust the spices to your taste!

Special Equipment

A large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven works best for evenly cooking and simmering this soup to perfection.

How To Make This Ground Beef Enchilada Soup

Creating this delicious Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is a breeze. Follow these simple steps to get dinner on the table in no time!

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Start by heating a tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add a diced onion and cook until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add Broth and Base Ingredients: Pour in the enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Incorporate Beans and Corn: Stir in the black beans and corn, ensuring everything is well combined. Add your seasonings (chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder) and let the soup simmer for 15–20 minutes to meld the flavors.
5. Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. Want more heat? Add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce!
6. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, diced avocado, or a handful of tortilla chips.

This soup is ready in under 40 minutes, making it the perfect quick dinner option!

Storage Options

This soup is not only easy to make but also easy to store. Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
• Freeze: To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating from Frozen: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Variations and Substitutions

This Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to make it your own:

• Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or use spicy enchilada sauce for an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or extra beans for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Add Rice or Pasta: Bulk up the soup by stirring in cooked rice, quinoa, or small pasta shapes before serving.
• Cheesy Twist: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for an extra creamy, cheesy finish.
• Low-Carb Version: Skip the beans and corn and replace with extra vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower for a keto-friendly option.

Experiment with these ideas to suit your tastes and dietary needs. You might just discover a new favorite!

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is everything you need in a dinner: quick, comforting, and loaded with flavor. Whether you're feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Gather your ingredients, top it with your favorite garnishes, and enjoy the cozy, Tex-Mex flavors in every bite.

Happy cooking!

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