When life gets hectic, having a quick, flavorful meal that feels homemade is a lifesaver. Enter Sizzling Ground Beef Enchilada Soup—a cozy, hearty, and creamy dish that brings bold Southwestern flavors to your dinner table in just 30 minutes. Packed with tender ground beef, savory spices, melty cream cheese, and vibrant veggies, this soup is perfect for weeknight dinners, busy families, or anytime you want comfort with a kick. Every spoonful is warm, satisfying, and downright addictive.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights
- Rich, creamy texture with cheesy goodness
- Packed with protein and veggies for a well-rounded meal
- Fully customizable spice level to suit your taste
- Great for leftovers or make-ahead meal prep
Ingredients
- Ground beef (1 lb) – Protein-packed and forms the hearty base of the soup. Use halal beef for a halal-friendly version.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp) – Helps brown the beef and adds a subtle richness.
- Yellow onion (1, chopped) – Adds natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Bell pepper (1, chopped) – Adds color, crunch, and a touch of sweetness.
- Minced garlic (1 tsp) – Aromatic and savory, enhancing the soup’s flavor.
- Taco seasoning (2 tbsp) – Brings bold Southwestern flavor with a perfect spice blend.
- Beef broth (2 cups) – Forms a rich, flavorful base for the soup.
- Enchilada sauce (10 oz can) – Adds tangy, smoky, and slightly spicy depth.
- Diced tomatoes and green chilies (10 oz can) – Contributes acidity, sweetness, and mild heat.
- Frozen corn (1 cup) – Adds natural sweetness and texture.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, cubed) – Melts into creamy perfection, creating a smooth, rich soup.
Optional Toppings:
- Broken tortilla chips or strips – Crunchy texture and fun garnish
- Shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar) – Extra melty goodness
- Sour cream – Adds tangy creaminess
- Fresh cilantro, chopped – Bright, fresh flavor
- Lime wedges – Optional, for a zesty finish
How to Make Sizzling Ground Beef Enchilada Soup
Brown the Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef, spreading it evenly across the bottom of the pan.
- Let it brown undisturbed for 3 minutes to develop color.
- Stir and continue browning until mostly cooked through, about 3 more minutes.
Cook the Veggies
- Add chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and taco seasoning. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Build the Soup
- Pour in beef broth, scraping up browned bits from the pan.
- Add diced tomatoes with green chilies, enchilada sauce, and corn. Stir to combine.
- Heat until the soup begins to bubble.
Add Creaminess
- Stir in cubed cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
- Remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve
- Ladle soup into bowls. Top with shredded cheese, tortilla strips, sour cream, cilantro, and lime wedges for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Tips for Success
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
- Adjust taco seasoning to control the spice level.
- For a thicker soup, simmer a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Make ahead: this soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Equipment Needed
- Large Dutch oven or pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board and knife
- Can opener
- Ladle
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or hot enchilada sauce for extra heat.
- Vegetable Boost: Include zucchini, carrots, or black beans for added nutrition.
- Low-Carb: Skip the corn and serve with cauliflower rice for a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm tortillas or cornbread on the side.
- Garnish with avocado slices or extra shredded cheese.
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Yes, both work well, though flavor will be slightly milder.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yes—cool completely, then freeze up to 3 months.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients (except cream cheese) to the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours. Add cream cheese at the end.
Can I make it creamier?
Yes—add an extra 2 oz of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream.
How spicy is this soup?
Mild by default; increase taco seasoning or use hot enchilada sauce to taste.
Sizzling Ground Beef Enchilada Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty, flavorful soup with ground beef, enchilada sauce, and creamy goodness, perfect for busy days.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 10 oz can enchilada sauce
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 1 10 oz can diced tomatoes and green chilies
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- Toppings: broken tortilla chips or strips, sour cream, shredded cheese, lime, chopped cilantro
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven, warm oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, break into chunks, and let brown 3 minutes.
- Stir and cook another 3 minutes until mostly cooked through.
- Add onion and bell pepper; sauté 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and taco seasoning; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in broth, scraping browned bits, then add diced tomatoes, enchilada sauce, and corn. Heat until bubbling.
- Stir in cream cheese until melted and combined. Remove from heat.
- Serve with shredded cheese, sour cream, tortilla strips, cilantro, and lime.
Notes
- Adjust spice level with more or less taco seasoning.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for creamier texture.
- Can be made ahead and stored in refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Final Thoughts
Sizzling Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is the ultimate weeknight lifesaver—quick, creamy, hearty, and full of bold flavor. It’s perfect for busy evenings, family dinners, or anytime you want a comforting bowl of Southwestern goodness. Try it tonight and enjoy the satisfaction of a rich, cheesy, and satisfying homemade soup that’s sure to impress.
