As I stirred the rich mixture in my pot, the enticing aroma of this Sizzling Ground Beef Enchilada Soup wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to my favorite Tex-Mex eatery. There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm bowl of comfort food, especially when it’s as easy to whip up as this recipe. Packed with hearty ground beef, vibrant spices, and a creamy texture, this soup is not just a cozy weeknight dinner; it’s also a flexibility-ready dish that welcomes ingredient swaps. Whether you’re short on time or just seeking something hearty and satisfying, this enchilada soup promises to become a cherished go-to for busy evenings. What’s your favorite topping to make it extra special?
Why Is This Soup a Game Changer?
Flavor Explosion: Each spoonful bursts with zesty Tex-Mex goodness, combining the richness of ground beef with stress-free ingredients.
Quick & Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can have a steaming pot of comfort on the table, perfect for busy weeknights!
Customizable Delight: Swap out ingredients like ground turkey or add black beans for a twist, making it suitable for everyone.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish promises to impress everyone at the table.
Pair it with some delicious Ground Beef Enchiladas for a full Tex-Mex feast!
Ground Beef Enchilada Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Ground Beef – The heart of this soup, adding rich flavor; substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish.
- Olive Oil – Used for sautéing, enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
- Beef Broth – Provides depth and richness; for a lighter option, use chicken or vegetable broth.
- Enchilada Sauce – Adds robust flavor and a hint of spice; consider homemade for a fresher touch.
- Cream Cheese – Makes the soup creamy and thick; swap for heavy cream or Greek yogurt if desired.
- Diced Tomatoes and Green Chiles – Bring acidity and a mild kick, enhancing flavor; fire-roasted tomatoes add a delightful smoky note.
- Minced Garlic – Offers aromatic depth; fresh garlic elevates the taste beautifully.
- Yellow Onion – Adds natural sweetness; can be substituted with shallots if needed.
- Bell Pepper – Contributes sweetness and crunch; any color will work, even poblano for a bit of heat.
- Frozen Corn – Introduces sweetness and texture; fresh corn in season is an excellent option.
- Taco Seasoning – Infuses a distinctive Tex-Mex flavor; homemade blends can add a personal touch.
For Garnishing
- Tortilla Chips – Adds a delightful crunch; feel free to use homemade for extra flavor.
- Sour Cream – Balances the spice and adds creaminess; Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative.
- Shredded Cheese – Provides richness; cheese blends like Monterey Jack or Cheddar complement the soup perfectly.
- Lime Wedges – Brighten the flavors with a fresh citrus kick.
- Cilantro – Adds a burst of herbal freshness; omit if you’re not a fan of the flavor.
This Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is destined to become a family favorite, perfect for those cozy nights!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ground Beef Enchilada Soup
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef, allowing it to brown undisturbed for about 3 minutes. Once a nice brown crust forms, stir and continue cooking until the beef is mostly browned, which will take an additional 3 minutes. This step builds a rich foundation for your Ground Beef Enchilada Soup.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add one chopped yellow onion and one diced bell pepper to the pot. Stir well and cook for approximately 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. The vibrant colors will enhance the visual appeal of your soup and add sweetness. This creates a harmonious blend with the rich beef.
Step 3: Add Aromatics and Seasoning
Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning, and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step will infuse the Ground Beef Enchilada Soup with a delicious Tex-Mex aroma, awakening the spices and making your kitchen feel welcoming.
Step 4: Incorporate the Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in 4 cups of beef broth while scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any savory bits. Then add one can of diced tomatoes and green chiles, along with one cup of enchilada sauce and 1 cup of frozen corn. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors meld together for about 10 minutes.
Step 5: Mix in the Cream Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and add 4 ounces of cream cheese, stirring until it’s melted and fully incorporated into the soup. This creamy addition transforms the Ground Beef Enchilada Soup into a luscious and comforting dish. Ensure it’s well blended, creating a velvety texture throughout.
Step 6: Serve with Toppings
Ladle the hot enchilada soup into bowls and garnish it with your choice of toppings. Consider crushed tortilla chips for crunch, a dollop of sour cream for creaminess, shredded cheese for richness, fresh lime wedges for a citrus kick, and freshly chopped cilantro for a herbal touch. This delightful finishing touch elevates your Ground Beef Enchilada Soup, ready to be enjoyed!
How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef Enchilada Soup
Fridge: Store your Ground Beef Enchilada Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Always allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in portioned bags for up to 3 months. Make sure to remove as much air as possible for the best results.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. This helps maintain the delicious creamy texture.
Thawing: If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for optimal flavor retention before reheating.
Make Ahead Options
These Ground Beef Enchilada Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop your vegetables (onion, bell pepper, and garlic) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to simplify cooking day. Additionally, you can brown the ground beef and cook it with the taco seasoning, letting it cool before refrigerating for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to finish the soup, simply sauté the prepped vegetables, add the pre-cooked beef, and incorporate the remaining ingredients as per the original recipe. This method ensures your soup remains just as delicious while minimizing weekday stress!
Ground Beef Enchilada Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with this Sizzling Ground Beef Enchilada Soup recipe—it’s your canvas!
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Ground Turkey: Swap ground beef for turkey to lighten the soup without sacrificing flavor. You’ll love the tender texture!
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Dairy-Free Twist: Replace cream cheese with coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free option. The rich coconut adds a unique flair.
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Extra Protein: Stir in black beans or pinto beans for an added boost of protein and fiber. They blend in beautifully and enhance the heartiness.
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Smoky Flavor: Choose fire-roasted tomatoes instead of regular diced ones for an extra layer of smoky goodness. It transforms the flavor profile delightfully.
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Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or diced green chilies for heat! Adjust to taste, and turn up the heat for those who crave a little fire in their soup.
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Herbal Freshness: Toss in fresh cilantro or a splash of lime juice just before serving. The vibrant notes uplift the soup, bringing it all together.
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Vegetarian Style: Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian-friendly version. This way, it remains tasty and satisfying for everyone!
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Creamy Alternative: Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a tangy twist! It thickens the soup while also adding a touch of healthfulness.
These variations are sure to make your Ground Beef Enchilada Soup experience uniquely yours. Don’t forget to try pairing it with a side of best stuffed shells with ground beef to create a deliciously comforting meal. Enjoy the creative process!
Expert Tips for Ground Beef Enchilada Soup
- Browning Matters: Ensure the beef is well-browned for rich flavor. Undercooking may lead to a less satisfying taste.
- Creamy Consistency: For a thicker soup, let it simmer longer after adding cream cheese. This builds a luscious texture that everyone will love.
- Gentle Stirring: Stir gently after adding cream cheese to avoid curdling, ensuring a smooth, creamy base for your Ground Beef Enchilada Soup.
- Salt Savvy: Check the salt level in your taco seasoning before adding more. It’s better to start light and adjust to taste as needed.
- Flavor Enhancer: Consider adding fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime after cooking for an extra burst of flavor that brightens each bowl.
What to Serve with Ground Beef Enchilada Soup
Cozy up your dinner table with delightful sides and drinks that elevate the heartwarming experience of this flavorful soup.
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Cornbread: This warm and slightly sweet bread perfectly complements the spice of the soup. Its texture adds a comforting bite that everyone will love.
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Fresh Flour Tortillas: Soft and warm tortillas are ideal for scooping up the soup. They add a delightful chewiness for an enjoyable meal.
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Simple Side Salad: A crisp salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette will provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the soup.
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Guacamole: Creamy guacamole with a hint of lime enhances the Tex-Mex flavors while adding a luxurious creaminess that pairs beautifully.
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Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips with fresh salsa make for a fun appetizer that compliments the flavors in the soup, enhancing your Tex-Mex experience.
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Margaritas: Sip on a refreshing margarita to elevate your dinner experience. Its citrus notes will brighten the flavors and add a festive touch to the evening.
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Chocolate Flan: End the meal with a slice of decadent chocolate flan for a delightful balance of rich and creamy textures against the savory soup.
Ground Beef Enchilada Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose fresh ingredients for this soup?
Absolutely! When selecting your ground beef, look for bright red color with minimal browning, as that’s a sign of freshness. The fat content should ideally be around 80/20 for the best flavor. For vegetables like bell peppers and onion, ensure they’re firm without any dark spots or blemishes. If you’re using canned tomatoes, opt for those without added sugars or preservatives for a cleaner taste.
How long can I store leftovers of Ground Beef Enchilada Soup?
Very! You can store your Ground Beef Enchilada Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the soup fresh, let it cool to room temperature before sealing it tightly. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop while giving it a gentle stir to reincorporate the flavors.
Can I freeze Ground Beef Enchilada Soup? If so, how?
Definitely! Freezing is a great option for this soup. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then portion it into resealable freezer bags or airtight containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can safely freeze the soup for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stovetop for the best texture.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
No worries! If you find your Ground Beef Enchilada Soup too thick after adding the cream cheese, you can easily fix it. Start by adding a bit of beef broth or water, about 1/2 cup at a time, stirring as you go until the desired consistency is achieved. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together again before serving.
Can pets eat Ground Beef Enchilada Soup?
It’s best to be cautious! While plain ground beef and vegetable ingredients are generally safe for pets, they shouldn’t consume onion or garlic, which can be harmful to them. If you’re considering sharing a small portion with your furry friend, ensure to omit the seasoning and any potentially harmful ingredients.
Are there any common allergy considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! This recipe contains common allergens such as dairy (from cream cheese and cheese toppings) and potentially gluten (from tortilla chips). If you’re catering to those with allergies, consider using dairy-free alternatives, like coconut milk for creaminess, and gluten-free tortilla chips or options for toppings. Always double-check ingredient labels to avoid cross-contamination!
Comforting Ground Beef Enchilada Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef, allowing it to brown undisturbed for about 3 minutes. Stir and continue cooking until mostly browned, taking an additional 3 minutes.
- Add one chopped yellow onion and one diced bell pepper to the pot. Stir well and cook for approximately 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning, and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in 4 cups of beef broth while scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any savory bits. Then add one can of diced tomatoes and green chiles, along with one cup of enchilada sauce and 1 cup of frozen corn. Bring to a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and add 4 ounces of cream cheese, stirring until melted and fully incorporated.
- Ladle the hot enchilada soup into bowls and garnish with toppings like tortilla chips, sour cream, shredded cheese, lime wedges, and cilantro.
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