Ground Beef Enchilada Soup Recipe

There's nothing like a warm bowl of Ground Beef Enchilada Soup to comfort you on a chilly evening. This hearty, flavorful dish combines the bold, zesty flavors of enchiladas with the ease and coziness of soup, creating a meal that's both satisfying and effortless.

The first time I made this soup, it was a complete hit with my family. Packed with savory ground beef, smoky spices, and melty cheese, it's become our go-to recipe for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Keep reading to learn why this recipe is a must-try and how you can make it your own!

Why You'll Love This Ground Beef Enchilada Soup

Get ready to meet your new favorite comfort food! Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is more than just a dish—it's a delicious way to bring everyone together around the table.

First, this soup is incredibly easy to make, requiring just one pot and under 40 minutes from start to finish. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner, you'll love how straightforward it is.

The bold, Mexican-inspired flavors are another standout. From the smoky chili powder to the zesty enchilada sauce, every bite bursts with warmth and spice that’s not too overpowering.

You'll also appreciate how budget-friendly and filling this soup is. Using simple pantry staples like ground beef, beans, and canned tomatoes, you can create a hearty meal that feeds the whole family without breaking the bank.

Finally, the versatility of this soup is unmatched. You can customize it to suit your preferences, whether by adjusting the spice level or swapping out ingredients.

So, grab a bowl and your favorite toppings—this Ground Beef Enchilada Soup will become a regular on your menu rotation!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this soup lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component works together to deliver that signature enchilada taste in every spoonful.

Ground beef forms the base of this soup, adding richness and protein. I recommend using an 85/15 blend for the perfect balance of flavor and fat. If you prefer leaner meat, ground turkey or chicken works well too.

Enchilada sauce is the star of the show, providing that classic tangy, smoky flavor. You can use mild or spicy sauce depending on your heat preference. For an extra homemade touch, try making your own enchilada sauce!

Black beans and corn add texture and heartiness to the soup. Their natural sweetness balances the spice and enhances the overall flavor.

Fire-roasted tomatoes give the broth a smoky depth that pairs beautifully with the spices. If you can’t find fire-roasted, regular diced tomatoes will work just fine.

Cheddar cheese melts into the soup, creating a creamy, comforting finish. A sharp cheddar is ideal, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend for a different twist.

No special equipment is needed for this recipe—just a large pot or Dutch oven, and you're good to go!

How To Make This Ground Beef Enchilada Soup

Making Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is as simple as it is satisfying. Let me walk you through the steps for a foolproof dinner.

Start by browning your ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks, ensuring even browning. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat if needed.

Next, add diced onions and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. These aromatics form the flavorful base of the soup.

Now, it’s time to bring in the spices. Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, stirring to coat the beef and onions. Toasting the spices briefly enhances their flavor and aroma.

Pour in the enchilada sauce, fire-roasted tomatoes, and beef broth, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the soup cook for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Add the black beans and corn to the pot, cooking just until heated through. Finish with a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts into the broth.

Serve your Ground Beef Enchilada Soup hot, garnished with your favorite toppings. I recommend diced avocado, sour cream, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.

Storage Options

Leftover Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is a gift that keeps on giving! Store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day.

To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

For reheating, warm individual portions on medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much in the fridge.

Variations and Substitutions

This Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is endlessly adaptable to suit your tastes and dietary needs.

For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or additional beans. Use vegetable broth in place of beef broth for a completely meatless meal.

Looking for a spicier kick? Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper during the cooking process.

Prefer a creamier soup? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end.

If you're gluten-free, double-check that your enchilada sauce is gluten-free and use certified gluten-free spices and broth.

Finally, don’t be afraid to play around with toppings! Crushed tortilla chips, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of queso fresco can elevate this soup to new heights.

Whether you're making this for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together, Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it tonight, and let the flavors warm your soul!

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