Welcome to a warm, comforting bowl of Ground Beef Enchilada Soup! Imagine the savory scent of ground beef mingling with zesty enchilada sauce, rich beef broth, and earthy beans, all blending together in a delicious symphony of flavor. As you spoon it into your bowl, the soup’s creamy texture (without a hint of cream!) wraps around your taste buds like a cozy blanket. This dish is perfect for cool evenings and will satisfy even the heartiest appetites. Plus, it’s quick, using mostly pantry staples, making it a go-to weeknight meal. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love Ground Beef Enchilada Soup (Creamy, Easy, and Cozy)
Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is everything you want in a cozy meal—creamy, satisfying, and downright delicious. Here are a few reasons why this soup is such a hit:
- Speed: Whip it up in under 30 minutes!
- Texture: Rich and creamy with that unmistakable enchilada goodness.
- Pantry-Friendly: Most ingredients you probably have on hand.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Make it at the start of the week for easy lunches.
- Customizable: Adjust spices and toppings to fit your taste.
- Dietary Notes: Easily adaptable for various needs (gluten-free, dairy-free).
- Family Favorite: Kids love it, and adults do too!
Key Ingredients for Ground Beef Enchilada Soup
- Ground Beef – Adds heartiness and flavor; swap for turkey or plant-based options if desired.
- Black Beans – Creamy texture contributes to the heartiness; can substitute with pinto beans.
- Kidney Beans – Adds depth and nutrition; any beans on hand can work too!
- Corn – Sweet pops of flavor and texture; use fresh, frozen, or canned.
- Onion – Builds a robust base flavor; shallots or leeks are good alternatives.
- Garlic – Adds aromatic richness; fresh is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
- Enchilada Sauce – The star for flavor; homemade or store-bought both shine.
- Beef Broth – Provides depth and body; vegetable broth works for a lighter option.
- Chili Powder & Cumin – Spice it up with these staples; adjust to your taste.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings; taste as you go!
- Shredded Cheese – For topping; try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a dairy-free alternative.
- Chopped Cilantro – Fresh garnish for a burst of color and flavor; omit if you’re not a fan.
Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below.
How to Make Ground Beef Enchilada Soup
Phase 1 – Prep
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Drain and rinse the black beans and kidney beans.
- Measure out all your ingredients to have them ready.
Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until onions are translucent.
- Stir in the black beans, kidney beans, corn, enchilada sauce, chili powder, cumin, and beef broth.
- Bring the soup to a simmer, letting it cook for about 15–20 minutes.
Phase 3 – Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Top with shredded cheese and chopped cilantro.
- Serve hot and enjoy that cozy embrace!
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Swap meats: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Add veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or diced tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Storage idea: Portion leftovers into individual containers for easy reheating throughout the week.
- Taste as you go: Adjust the spices to your liking for the perfect simmer!
- Garnish options: Avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream add a tasty finishing touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is cooking the beef too long; it can become dry. Cook just until browned! Another issue is over-seasoning; start with less spice and adjust as needed. Lastly, not simmering the soup long enough can leave flavors underdeveloped. Aim for at least 15 minutes for the best depth of flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free enchilada sauce and broth.
- Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.
- Spicy: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Herbal: Toss in fresh parsley or red pepper flakes for added flavor.
- Cooking Methods: This can be made on the stovetop, in an Instant Pot, or an air fryer, depending on your preference.
How to Serve Ground Beef Enchilada Soup
- Best Pairings: Serve with warm tortillas or crusty bread to soak up the soup!
- Toppings & Garnishes: Fresh sliced avocados, diced onions, or crushed tortilla chips add crunch.
- Drink Pairing: A cold glass of iced tea or a light beer complements this dish beautifully.
Make Ahead & Storage
Can I Meal Prep This?
Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep and holds up well in the fridge.
Storing Leftovers
Keep the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing
Freeze in a container for up to 3 months. Note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat in the microwave for about 2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or warm on the stove over medium heat until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables in this?
Yes! Frozen corn works well and adds convenience.
How to make it extra creamy without cream?
Add a mashed avocado or a bit of sour cream to give it a creamy texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Of course! Just make sure your pot is big enough to hold the extra ingredients.
How to fix a too-thick soup?
Add a bit more broth or water until the desired consistency is reached.
As you dive into this delicious Ground Beef Enchilada Soup, you’ll discover just how comforting and satisfying it can be. With its robust flavor and creamy texture, it’s a dish that invites warmth and happiness around the dinner table. Don’t forget to share your experience here, and if you love this recipe, check out our other hearty soups for more delicious ideas!
Ground Beef Enchilada Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Drain and rinse the black beans and kidney beans.
- Measure out all your ingredients to have them ready.
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until onions are translucent.
- Stir in the black beans, kidney beans, corn, enchilada sauce, chili powder, cumin, and beef broth.
- Bring the soup to a simmer, letting it cook for about 15–20 minutes.
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Top with shredded cheese and chopped cilantro.
- Serve hot and enjoy!