Beef Enchilada Soup Recipe

Introduction

Beef Enchilada Soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly nights, offering the rich and flavorful taste of enchiladas in the form of a hearty soup. This savory dish combines tender beef, a medley of spices, and a delicious blend of tomato, onion, and peppers, all simmered together into a satisfying, soul-warming bowl of goodness. With the depth of enchilada flavors and a creamy texture, this soup is sure to become a favorite at the dinner table, providing both comfort and a spicy kick.

Ideal for cozy weeknights, special occasions, or a casual get-together with friends, Beef Enchilada Soup is easy to make and packed with bold flavors. The dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to add or adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand. Whether you enjoy it mild or with an extra spicy kick, Beef Enchilada Soup is a delightful, filling meal that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful.

This guide will walk you through each step of preparing this savory soup, offering tips to enhance the flavor and texture. Plus, we’ll explore fun variations, helpful tips, and possible pairings to elevate your Beef Enchilada Soup experience.

Why You’ll Love Beef Enchilada Soup

• Bold, Rich Flavor: The hearty, flavorful base of the soup combines beef, tomatoes, onions, peppers, and enchilada sauce, making each bite deeply satisfying. It’s the perfect balance of savory, spicy, and slightly tangy flavors that enchilada lovers crave.
• Comforting and Filling: With its thick, satisfying broth and tender beef, this soup will fill you up while providing a warm, comforting meal for any occasion. Perfect for cool nights or when you need a little extra warmth.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with a variety of pantry staples like ground beef, enchilada sauce, and spices, this recipe doesn’t require any fancy ingredients. Everything is easy to find and comes together quickly for a delicious and easy meal.
• Customizable: Beef Enchilada Soup is very versatile. You can easily make it spicier by adding more chili powder or jalapeños, or you can make it milder with a little less heat. Plus, you can top it with your favorite garnishes like cheese, sour cream, or cilantro.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it for later use, ensuring you have a satisfying meal at the ready.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 300-350 calories per serving, depending on the specific ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 18-22g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g

Ingredients

For the Beef Enchilada Soup:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (4 oz) green chilies, diced (optional for extra spice)
• 3 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing

For the Garnishes (Optional):

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream
• Fresh cilantro
• Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips
• Sliced jalapeños

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by chopping the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Drain and rinse the black beans. If you’re using frozen corn, measure out one cup. You can also prepare your garnishes now so everything is ready once the soup is finished.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the beef for 5-7 minutes until it is fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary. This step adds depth to the soup, as the beef releases its juices and flavors.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

Once the beef is cooked, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Sauté the vegetables for 3-4 minutes until the onions are softened and the garlic is fragrant. This will help release the natural sweetness of the onions and bell pepper, and the garlic will add a savory foundation to the soup.

4. Add the Spices and Seasoning

Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix the spices thoroughly with the beef and vegetables to ensure an even coating. The spices will toast slightly in the pot, bringing out their aromatic flavors and adding a rich, deep flavor to the soup base.

5. Combine the Soup Ingredients

Next, add the red enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, green chilies (if using), and beef broth to the pot. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a simmer, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and develop.

6. Add the Beans, Corn, and Simmer

After the soup has simmered, add the black beans and corn to the pot. Stir to combine, and let the soup cook for an additional 10 minutes on low heat. The beans and corn will heat through, and the soup will thicken slightly. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices if needed.

7. Serve the Soup

Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and top with your desired garnishes. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, add a dollop of sour cream, and garnish with fresh cilantro and tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips for added crunch. If you like a little heat, you can also add sliced jalapeños to your soup.

Tips for Perfect Beef Enchilada Soup

• Use Lean Ground Beef: For a healthier version of this soup, you can use lean ground beef or substitute it with ground turkey or chicken. This will reduce the fat content while still maintaining a hearty flavor.
• Make It Spicier: If you prefer a spicier soup, you can add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or jalapeños. For an extra kick, add a few dashes of hot sauce or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
• Use Homemade Enchilada Sauce: If you have the time, making your own enchilada sauce can elevate the flavor of the soup even further. A homemade sauce will be fresh and customizable to your taste.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables to your soup. Chopped zucchini, spinach, or carrots are great additions and will add more nutrients and texture.
• Adjust the Broth for Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or let the soup simmer longer to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. For a thinner consistency, add a little more broth.

Variations of Beef Enchilada Soup

• Vegetarian Enchilada Soup: Skip the ground beef and use a variety of beans such as pinto beans, black beans, and kidney beans for a meat-free version of this soup. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to bulk it up.
• Chicken Enchilada Soup: Swap out the ground beef for shredded cooked chicken for a lighter version of the soup. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this variation.
• Spicy Beef Enchilada Soup: If you like a lot of heat, try adding more chili powder, fresh jalapeños, or a diced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce. This will give the soup a smokier, spicier flavor.
• Cheesy Beef Enchilada Soup: For a creamy and cheesy variation, stir in a cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend) into the soup as it simmers. This will add richness and a cheesy, velvety texture to the broth.

Storage and Shelf Life

Beef Enchilada Soup is an excellent make-ahead meal, and it stores well for later:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. When reheating, you can add a little extra broth or water to bring the soup back to the desired consistency.
• Freezing: You can freeze Beef Enchilada Soup for longer storage. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm the soup on the stove over low heat.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Beef Enchilada Soup

While Beef Enchilada Soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, it pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes:

• Cornbread: A slice of sweet, buttery cornbread is the perfect accompaniment to this flavorful soup. Its light, crumbly texture complements the richness of the soup.
• Mexican Rice: Serve the soup with a side of fluffy Mexican rice for a more filling meal. The rice soaks up the soup’s flavors and provides a nice contrast to the creamy broth.
• Tortillas: Warm flour or corn tortillas make a great side to Beef Enchilada Soup. You can use them to dip into the soup or wrap them around your garnishes for a delicious bite.
• Guacamole and Chips: A bowl of fresh guacamole and crispy tortilla chips is a perfect starter or side to enjoy with your soup. The creamy guacamole balances the heat from the soup.

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Conclusion

Beef Enchilada Soup is a delicious, flavorful, and satisfying meal that brings the beloved taste of enchiladas into a warm, comforting bowl. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a party, this soup is a sure winner. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a meal that’s packed with bold flavors and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the rich, savory goodness of Beef Enchilada Soup—it’s a comforting dish that will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.