Ground Beef Enchilada Soup Recipe

There’s nothing better than a warm, hearty bowl of Ground Beef Enchilada Soup on a chilly evening. This one-pot wonder combines the zesty flavors of enchiladas with the coziness of a thick, satisfying soup. The aroma alone—spiced beef, tangy enchilada sauce, and a medley of savory toppings—will have your family rushing to the table.

I stumbled upon this recipe during a weeknight dinner experiment, and it instantly became a favorite. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, this soup is perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Enchilada Soup

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that hits all the right notes—flavorful, easy, and versatile! Here’s why this Ground Beef Enchilada Soup will become your new go-to recipe.

First off, it’s a one-pot meal, meaning less cleanup and more time to relax after dinner. With just one pot, you can sauté, simmer, and serve in no time.

The bold, Mexican-inspired flavors will transport your taste buds straight to a cozy cantina. It’s rich, slightly spicy, and perfectly balanced with creamy and tangy toppings.

This recipe is also incredibly budget-friendly. Using pantry staples like canned enchilada sauce, beans, and ground beef, you can create a filling meal that’s easy on your wallet.

Finally, it’s endlessly customizable. Whether you prefer it spicier, vegetarian, or loaded with toppings, this soup adapts to your tastes and pantry staples with ease.

Ingredients Notes

This Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is built on a foundation of simple, affordable ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Let’s dive into what makes each one special.

• Ground Beef: The star of the show, ground beef adds richness and hearty texture. Opt for an 80/20 blend for the best balance of flavor and fat. You can also swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Enchilada Sauce: The soul of the soup! Using canned red enchilada sauce keeps things quick and easy. For a deeper flavor, choose a medium or hot variety based on your spice preference.
• Black Beans and Corn: These pantry staples add texture, color, and extra nutrition. Drain and rinse your beans to remove excess sodium, and use canned or frozen corn.
• Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles: A must-have for authentic Tex-Mex flavor. If you can’t find this combo, use diced tomatoes and add a small can of green chiles separately.
• Spices: Cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika give the soup its signature warmth and depth. Feel free to adjust the amounts to suit your palate.
• Broth: Chicken or beef broth serves as the soup’s base. Low-sodium options are best so you can control the salt level.

You’ll also need a large pot or Dutch oven for this recipe. Its even heat distribution is perfect for soups and stews.

How to Make Ground Beef Enchilada Soup

Making this Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is as simple as sauté, simmer, and serve. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time.

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Drain excess grease if necessary.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Stir in diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened—about 3 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup.
3. Add Liquids and Spices: Pour in the enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes with green chiles, and broth. Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, then stir to combine.
4. Incorporate Beans and Corn: Add the drained black beans and corn to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you want more spice, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.

Serve the soup hot, with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro.

Storage Options

This Ground Beef Enchilada Soup stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
• Freezer: Freeze the soup in individual portions or a large container for up to 3 months. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating Tips: Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much during storage. Stir well and reheat gently to preserve the flavors.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe is how adaptable it is! Here are a few ways to switch things up:

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the ground beef and add extra beans, lentils, or diced sweet potatoes for a meatless twist.
• Spicy Kick: Use hot enchilada sauce, add diced jalapeños, or sprinkle in red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Protein Swap: Ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded rotisserie chicken make excellent substitutes for beef.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the beans and corn, and add diced zucchini or cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly version.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese before serving for a creamier texture.

Don’t be afraid to get creative—the possibilities are endless with this versatile soup!

With its comforting flavors and effortless preparation, this Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Try it tonight and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that’s as delicious as it is simple.

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