Ground Beef Enchilada Soup Recipe

There's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Ground Beef Enchilada Soup to warm you up on a chilly evening. This hearty soup is packed with bold flavors, tender ground beef, and just the right amount of spice, making it the ultimate comfort food.

I first discovered this recipe on a cold winter night when I wanted the flavors of enchiladas but without all the prep work. Since then, it’s become a weeknight staple in our house. Let’s dive into the reasons this soup will become your favorite too.

Why You'll Love This Ground Beef Enchilada Soup

Get ready to embrace a meal that's comforting, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. This soup is the perfect combination of convenience and restaurant-quality taste.

First, it’s quick and fuss-free. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for those busy weeknights when you need something hearty on the table fast.

This recipe is also highly affordable, using pantry staples and ground beef to create a satisfying meal without stretching your grocery budget.

The flavors are absolutely irresistible. The savory richness of ground beef, the smoky heat from enchilada sauce, and the creamy texture from optional toppings like sour cream and cheese will make this soup a favorite for the whole family.

Finally, it’s versatile and customizable. Whether you like it mild or spicy, loaded with veggies, or topped with tortilla chips, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is in its simple, bold ingredients. Each one contributes to its rich, satisfying flavor profile.

Ground Beef is the star of the show. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and texture. You can also swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.

Enchilada Sauce brings all the smoky, tangy flavors of enchiladas into your soup. For extra depth, use homemade enchilada sauce, but store-bought works beautifully too.

Black Beans and Corn add heartiness and texture. They also balance out the spice, creating a well-rounded dish. Feel free to use fresh, frozen, or canned corn depending on what you have on hand.

Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles give this soup its signature Tex-Mex flair. If you like more heat, opt for the spicy version, or keep it mild with plain diced tomatoes.

Broth ties everything together. Chicken broth works well for a lighter flavor, but beef broth adds an extra layer of richness.

You’ll also need a few pantry staples like chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder to enhance the flavor. Don’t forget to gather your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped cilantro for the perfect finishing touch.

How To Make This Ground Beef Enchilada Soup

Making this Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is as easy as it gets. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks, ensuring it’s evenly browned. Once it’s cooked through, drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.

In the same pot, add a splash of olive oil, followed by diced onions. Sauté them until they’re soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Next, pour in the enchilada sauce and stir to combine. Add the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chiles, then stir in your spices – chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Slowly add the broth to the pot, stirring well to combine. Return the ground beef to the pot and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for another 10 minutes.

Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you want a creamier soup, stir in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream just before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes.

Storage Options

Ground Beef Enchilada Soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors only get better as the soup sits, making reheated bowls even more delicious.

To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.

When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or water to restore the soup’s original consistency, as it tends to thicken slightly over time.

Variations and Substitutions

This Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is endlessly versatile, so don’t be afraid to get creative with it.

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and double the beans. Pinto beans or chickpeas make excellent additions as well.

If you’re craving extra veggies, stir in diced zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.

To make it spicier, add a diced jalapeño along with the onions or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper with the spices.

For a cheesy twist, stir in a handful of shredded cheese during the final simmer or top each bowl with freshly grated cheese before serving.

Lastly, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, ensure your enchilada sauce and spices are certified gluten-free.

Experiment with these ideas to make the soup your own. With so many options, you’ll never get tired of this comforting, flavorful dish!

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