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Ground Beef Enchilada Soup with Cheese

Elina James
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Soups
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Soup:
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (10 oz / 285 g) can red enchilada sauce
  • 1 (14.5 oz / 410 g) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup frozen or canned corn
  • 3 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional for creaminess)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
  • Optional Toppings:
  • Crushed tortilla chips or strips
  • Sour cream
  • Diced avocado
  • Chopped fresh cilantro
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Extra shredded cheese
  • Lime wedges

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef : Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, then ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
  • Step 2: Add Aromatics : Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, until the onion is soft and fragrant.
  • Step 3: Add Seasonings ; Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 1 minute to bloom the spices and enhance the flavor.
  • Step 4: Build the Soup Base : Pour in the enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and beef broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
  • Step 5: Simmer : Let the soup simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors meld and the soup thicken slightly.
  • Step 6: Add Cream and Cheese : Stir in the heavy cream (if using) and shredded cheese. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the soup becomes creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  • Step 7: Serve and Garnish : Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with crushed tortilla chips, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve warm and enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness!