Craving tacos but also want something warm and comforting? This hearty chipotle ground beef soup transforms your favorite taco flavors into a steaming bowl of pure comfort! Ready in just 45 minutes, this naturally gluten-free recipe will quickly become your go-to dinner option for chilly evenings.
I discovered this ground beef soup recipe during an impromptu dinner on a cool autumn evening when I wanted to use ground beef while satisfying my taco cravings. Since then, it’s become a staple in my kitchen, always bringing smiles around the family table.
Table of Contents
Simple Ground Beef Soup Ingredients and Preparation Guide
| Main Ingredients | Amount | Garnishes (Optional) |
|---|---|---|
| Lean ground beef | 1 pound | Sliced avocado |
| Medium onion, diced | 1 | Fresh cilantro |
| Red bell pepper, diced | 1 | Sour cream or Greek yogurt |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 | Green onions |
| Chipotle peppers in adobo | 2 | Shredded cheddar cheese |
| Beans (pinto or red) | 2 cans | Tortilla chips |
| Crushed tomatoes | 14 oz can | Lime wedges |
| Beef broth | 3 cups | |
| Taco seasoning | 2 tablespoons |
Quick Chipotle Ground Beef Soup Cooking Steps
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until well-cooked, about 8-10 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break it into small pieces while cooking.
- Add diced onion and red bell pepper. Continue cooking for 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften. Add minced garlic and cook for one minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add chopped chipotle peppers with their adobo sauce and taco seasoning. Mix well to evenly coat the meat and vegetables.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, beans, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
Customizing Your Chipotle Ground Beef Soup Experience
This soup is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to make it your own:
- Protein alternatives: Switch ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version, or shredded chicken for a different texture.
- Vegetarian option: Double the beans and add chopped mushrooms for a hearty meatless version.
- Heat adjustment: Chipotle peppers can be spicy! Start with one pepper for a milder version, or increase the amount for more heat.
Chef’s Tips for Perfect Chipotle Ground Beef Soup Results
For an even more flavorful soup:
- Add a splash of fresh lime juice just before serving to enhance all flavors.
- In summer, use fresh, ripe tomatoes, peeled and crushed, instead of canned.
- Make your own taco seasoning blend for complete control over the flavors.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Serve this steaming soup in deep bowls, letting everyone customize their portion with their preferred toppings. For a complete meal, serve with homemade cornbread or a crisp salad.
Presentation makes all the difference: arrange toppings in separate small bowls to create a welcoming “toppings bar” that the whole family will love. The bright colors of the various garnishes transform each bowl into a true culinary masterpiece.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
This soup keeps perfectly for up to 3 days in the refrigerator and freezes well for up to 3 months. To reheat, add a bit of broth if needed and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Ready to warm up your evening with this delicious chipotle ground beef soup? Don’t forget to share your photos and favorite variations in the comments below! What are your favorite toppings? Have you tried any substitutions that worked well?
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