The Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is a delightful fusion of Tex-Mex flavors, combining hearty ground beef with creamy cheese, enchilada sauce, and a vibrant mix of vegetables. Every spoonful is a warm embrace of zesty, comforting spices balanced with the coolness of sour cream and the crunch of tortilla strips. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend gathering. It’s easy to prepare, customizable to suit different palates, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Serve it with cornbread or warm tortillas to create a complete, soul-warming meal that’s as delightful to make as it is to enjoy.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes and green chiles
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend or cheddar cheese
- Optional toppings: tortilla strips, sour cream, chopped cilantro, lime wedges
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart into crumbles, and brown for 5-6 minutes.
- Stir in chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and taco seasoning, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in beef broth, enchilada sauce, and diced tomatoes with green chiles. Stir to combine, then bring to a gentle boil.
- Add frozen corn and reduce heat to a simmer. Let the soup cook for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Stir in cream cheese and shredded cheese, mixing until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
- Serve hot, garnished with tortilla strips, sour cream, cilantro, and lime wedges, as desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 320 per serving | Servings: 6
A Tex-Mex Comfort Food Delight
When it comes to comfort food, there’s something undeniably magical about Tex-Mex cuisine. Its unique combination of bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and satisfying textures creates dishes that leave an impression long after the meal is over. Ground Beef Enchilada Soup perfectly embodies these traits, combining the robust flavors of traditional enchiladas with the cozy, warming appeal of soup. It’s a dish that stands out not only for its taste but for its versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to bring people together over a shared love of food.
The Origins of Tex-Mex Cuisine
Tex-Mex cuisine is a vibrant blend of Mexican and American culinary traditions, originating from the Texas-Mexico borderlands. Its roots run deep in the melding of native Mexican ingredients like corn, beans, and chilies with the European influence of meats, cheeses, and spices brought by settlers. Over time, this fusion has evolved into a distinct and beloved culinary identity. Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is a modern interpretation of these classic flavors, encapsulating the spirit of Tex-Mex while offering a fresh and comforting twist.
The Appeal of Ground Beef Enchilada Soup
What makes Ground Beef Enchilada Soup so appealing is its ability to deliver a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort. The soup is rich, creamy, and packed with satisfying ingredients like ground beef, enchilada sauce, and cheese. Each spoonful carries the robust, zesty flavors of classic enchiladas, but in a format that’s perfect for a cozy evening at home or a quick weeknight dinner. Its versatility allows it to be a standalone meal or paired with side dishes like cornbread or a crisp salad for a more complete dining experience.
A Symphony of Flavors
One of the standout features of this soup is its complex and well-balanced flavor profile. It starts with the rich, savory taste of browned ground beef, which serves as the foundation for the dish. Layered on top are the zesty and slightly smoky notes of enchilada sauce, the aromatic warmth of taco seasoning, and the sweetness of corn. These flavors are enhanced by the addition of creamy cheeses, which add depth and richness to the soup. Finally, toppings like fresh cilantro, lime, and crunchy tortilla strips bring brightness and texture, elevating the dish from a simple soup to a culinary masterpiece.
Easy to Customize
Another reason this soup has become a favorite among home cooks is its incredible adaptability. It’s easy to adjust the recipe to suit dietary preferences or what’s available in your pantry. For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. If you’re looking to increase the soup’s nutritional value, consider adding black beans or extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach. Prefer a spicier kick? Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. These modifications not only make the dish accessible to a wide range of eaters but also keep it exciting, even for those who make it often.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is also an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts. It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it a convenient option for busy weeks. When reheated, the flavors become even more pronounced, making the leftovers just as delicious—if not more—than the freshly prepared dish. Pack it in individual portions for a quick lunch, or reheat a pot for an easy dinner that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
A Crowd-Pleaser for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or preparing a weeknight family dinner, this soup is guaranteed to be a hit. Its bold, comforting flavors appeal to adults and kids alike, and the interactive element of choosing your own toppings adds a fun, personalized touch. For larger gatherings, you can easily double or triple the recipe, serving it alongside a taco bar or nacho station for a Tex-Mex-themed feast.
The Role of Garnishes
The toppings you choose for this soup can completely transform the dining experience. Crispy tortilla strips or crumbled tortilla chips add a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese enhances the richness, while diced avocado and fresh cilantro provide a refreshing, herbaceous lift. A squeeze of lime juice ties all the flavors together, adding a tangy brightness that cuts through the richness of the dish. These garnishes not only enhance the taste but also create a visually appealing bowl that’s as satisfying to look at as it is to eat.
Tips for Serving and Pairing
When serving Ground Beef Enchilada Soup, presentation is key. Use colorful bowls and arrange garnishes neatly to make the dish even more inviting. Pairing it with simple sides can turn the meal into a well-rounded dining experience. Consider serving warm flour tortillas or a loaf of crusty bread for dipping, or add a side of Mexican rice for an extra hearty option. For beverages, a chilled margarita or a cold glass of Mexican beer complements the dish beautifully, while non-alcoholic options like a citrus-infused sparkling water work just as well.
Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot in Your Kitchen
Ground Beef Enchilada Soup isn’t just another recipe; it’s a testament to the joys of cooking and sharing meals with loved ones. Its ease of preparation makes it accessible to cooks of all skill levels, while its bold flavors and endless customization options ensure it never gets old. Whether you’re a Tex-Mex aficionado or new to the cuisine, this soup offers a delicious entry point into the world of spicy, savory comfort food.
Conclusion:
In a world where we’re constantly searching for meals that are both convenient and satisfying, Ground Beef Enchilada Soup shines as a standout choice. Its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and effortless preparation make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, and everything in between. Beyond its practicality, this soup is a celebration of Tex-Mex cuisine, bringing the vibrant, comforting flavors of enchiladas into a format that warms both the body and the soul. Once you’ve tasted it, it’s sure to become a cherished addition to your recipe repertoire a dish you’ll return to time and time again for its unbeatable combination of simplicity, flavor, and comfort.
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Ground Beef Enchilada Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
The Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is a delightful fusion of Tex-Mex flavors, combining hearty ground beef with creamy cheese, enchilada sauce, and a vibrant mix of vegetables. Every spoonful is a warm embrace of zesty, comforting spices balanced with the coolness of sour cream and the crunch of tortilla strips. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend gathering. It’s easy to prepare, customizable to suit different palates, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Serve it with cornbread or warm tortillas to create a complete, soul-warming meal that’s as delightful to make as it is to enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes and green chiles
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend or cheddar cheese
- Optional toppings: tortilla strips, sour cream, chopped cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart into crumbles, and brown for 5-6 minutes.
- Stir in chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and taco seasoning, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in beef broth, enchilada sauce, and diced tomatoes with green chiles. Stir to combine, then bring to a gentle boil.
- Add frozen corn and reduce heat to a simmer. Let the soup cook for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Stir in cream cheese and shredded cheese, mixing until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
- Serve hot, garnished with tortilla strips, sour cream, cilantro, and lime wedges, as desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
