Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for cozying up on a chilly evening. This soup combines the rich, savory taste of ground beef with the bold flavors of enchilada sauce, beef broth, and a variety of fresh vegetables. Topped with crispy tortilla chips, creamy sour cream, and melted cheese, it’s a delicious, comforting meal that’s simple to prepare and sure to please the whole family. With a perfect balance of spice and creaminess, this soup is an easy go-to for a weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is a satisfying meal that combines everything you love about enchiladas in one convenient bowl. The ground beef provides a rich, savory base, while the creamy cream cheese and enchilada sauce create a comforting, velvety texture. The soup is packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of beef broth, diced tomatoes and green chilies, and taco seasoning. Plus, the vegetables—onions, bell peppers, and corn—add a burst of freshness and color. It’s topped off with crispy tortilla chips, melted cheese, and a dollop of sour cream for added richness. Easy to make and incredibly flavorful, this soup is a perfect choice for busy nights when you crave something comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients

Soup:

Ground beef
Olive oil
Beef broth
Enchilada sauce
Cream cheese (cubed)
Diced tomatoes and green chilies
Minced garlic
Yellow onion (chopped)
Bell pepper (chopped)
Frozen corn
Taco seasoning

Toppings:

Broken tortilla chips or strips
Sour cream
Shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar)
Lime (optional)
Cilantro (chopped)

Variations

This Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is versatile and can be customized to suit different tastes. If you prefer a spicier version, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the soup. For a leaner alternative, you can swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. To make it a bit lighter, use reduced-fat cream cheese or swap it with Greek yogurt for a creamy yet healthier option. If you want to incorporate more veggies, consider adding zucchini, spinach, or black beans. For a richer soup, stir in some heavy cream or half-and-half. You can also adjust the level of taco seasoning to control the heat.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped yellow onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot with the ground beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and the garlic is fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Sauces

Stir in the beef broth, enchilada sauce, and diced tomatoes and green chilies. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.

Step 4: Incorporate the Cream Cheese and Corn

Add the cubed cream cheese to the pot, stirring constantly until it has melted and the soup becomes creamy. Stir in the frozen corn and taco seasoning. Let the soup simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or taco seasoning if desired.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your choice of toppings: broken tortilla chips, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

For extra flavor, use homemade taco seasoning instead of store-bought.
If the soup is too thick, add more beef broth to reach your desired consistency.
To make the soup spicier, include some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Make sure to stir the cream cheese in gradually to avoid lumps.
If you prefer a smoother soup, you can blend part of it using an immersion blender for a creamy texture.

How to Serve

Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with side dishes like a simple green salad or cornbread. For a more substantial meal, serve it with a side of warm tortillas. The soup also works well as a filling for soft tacos or burritos if you’re looking to switch things up.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, and it will taste even better the next day.

Freezing

To freeze the soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. The soup can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove over medium heat, adding a bit of beef broth if necessary to thin it out.

Reheating

Reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl. Add extra toppings when reheating for a fresh, flavorful meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different kind of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the ground beef if you prefer a leaner option.

2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can brown the beef and sauté the vegetables before transferring everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, and add the cream cheese about 30 minutes before serving.

3. Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh corn can be used instead of frozen. Just be sure to cook it first before adding it to the soup.

4. Can I make this soup spicier?

Absolutely! Add some diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the soup to increase the heat.

5. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this soup a day or two in advance. It tastes even better as the flavors meld together overnight.

6. How can I make this soup creamier?

You can add more cream cheese or a dollop of sour cream when serving to make the soup creamier.

7. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze Ground Beef Enchilada Soup. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in a freezer-safe container. Reheat thoroughly when you’re ready to enjoy.

8. Can I skip the tortilla chips?

Yes, you can skip the tortilla chips, but they add a delightful crunch to the soup. You can substitute them with crispy fried onions or croutons.

9. Can I add beans to the soup?

Yes, you can add black beans or kidney beans for extra protein and fiber. Add them along with the corn.

10. What kind of cheese should I use?

Mexican blend cheese or cheddar work best, but you can also use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or any cheese you like.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the bold, savory flavors of enchiladas in a warm, hearty soup. With its rich, creamy texture and the addition of crispy tortilla chips and melted cheese, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy. Perfect for busy nights, this soup is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed by the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a meal to impress, this Ground Beef Enchilada Soup delivers on taste, convenience, and comfort.