Few dishes offer the comfort of a warm soup on a chilly day, and our Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is no exception. Infused with the rich flavors of seductive spices and hearty beef, this recipe is destined to be a staple in your kitchen. With its easy preparation and flavors reminiscent of classic enchiladas, it’s a culinary delight that strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 ounces) red enchilada sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn kernels, drained
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro
Equipments
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Knife and cutting board
How to Make Ground Beef Enchilada Soup – Step By Step
Step 1 – Brown the Beef:
Begin by heating your large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This step allows the beef to cook evenly and renders out flavorful fat that will enrich your soup base. Ensure that the beef is nicely browned, adding depth to the overall flavor. Once browned, drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 2 – Sauté Aromatics:
With the beef set to the side, introduce the diced onions, green bell pepper, and minced garlic into the pot. Sauté these aromatics in the residual beef drippings until the onions become translucent and the peppers soften—around five minutes. The vegetables will release their natural sweetness and blend with the savory beef fat, creating a robust base for your soup.
Step 3 – Add Liquids & Seasonings:
Pour in the beef broth, enchilada sauce, and ground cumin into the pot. Stir the mixture, ensuring all ingredients are well combined. At this stage, the soup will start to embody the classic enchilada flavors, with the broth and sauce serving as a savory, tangy foundation.
Step 4 – Simmer with Beans & Corn:
Add the rinsed black beans and drained corn kernels. Stir these ingredients into the soup and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow the soup to cook for about 20 minutes, giving the flavors ample time to meld together, creating a harmonious and satisfying palate experience.
Step 5 – Final Season & Serve:
Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. Scoop the soup into bowls and garnish with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh cilantro for added zest. This finishing touch elevates the dish, offering a burst of flavor and color.
How to Serve Ground Beef Enchilada Soup
Serve your Ground Beef Enchilada Soup steaming hot, paired with crusty bread or a fresh salad to complement this hearty dish. For a complete meal, consider adding avocado slices or jalapeños for an extra kick.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
When selecting beef, opt for a moderately fatty ground beef to ensure a richer flavor profile. If you prefer spicier soups, substitute red enchilada sauce with a hot variant, or add sliced jalapeños during the sautéing step. Also, feel free to explore by incorporating other vegetables such as zucchini or carrots for a nutritious twist.
Pumped-Up Protein: High Protein Variation
For those seeking a protein-packed punch, this high-protein version of our classic Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is just the ticket. Substitute half of the beef with ground turkey or chicken breast to boost your protein intake without compromising deliciousness. Consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, which also contributes extra protein.
Count on Flavor, Not Carbs: Low-Carb Variation
If you’re watching your carbohydrates, this low-carb variation satisfies your cravings without the unwanted starchy additions. Simply omit the corn and black beans, replacing them with diced zucchini or cauliflower rice. This modification retains the wholesome goodness while adapting to your dietary preferences.
Storage Instructions
Stored properly, this soup remains fresh and flavorful. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
- Can I freeze this soup? Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to three months in a freezer-safe container.
- Is enchilada soup spicy? It depends on the enchilada sauce you choose. Opt for mild or hot to adjust the spice level to your preference.
- Can I use leftover cooked beef? Absolutely! Simply add your cooked beef during the liquid phase to heat through.
- How can I thicken the soup? If you prefer a thicker soup, mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the simmering soup until thickened.
Elevate Your Soup Experience by Sharing
We hope this Ground Beef Enchilada Soup recipe warms both your heart and your palate. Feel free to share this delightful dish with friends and family. Invite them to your table for conversation or engage through social media by sharing your own twists and presentations!
Ground Beef Enchilada Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- diced onions
- green bell pepper
- garlic
- beef broth
- red enchilada sauce
- black beans
- corn kernels
- ground cumin
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add diced onions, green bell pepper, and minced garlic, sauté until softened.
- Stir in beef broth, red enchilada sauce, and ground cumin. Mix well.
- Add black beans and corn kernels, stir to combine. Simmer for 20 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with optional toppings before serving.