Ground Beef Tortilla Soup Recipe

Tortilla soup is one of those comforting dishes that strikes the perfect balance between hearty and flavorful. Imagine a bowl of warm, savory soup, brimming with rich spices, tender beef, and crispy tortilla strips floating atop. The great thing about tortilla soup is its versatility-it can be made in so many ways, with different proteins, spices, and toppings. But today, we’re diving into a delightful variation: Ground Beef Tortilla Soup.

The idea behind this recipe is to bring together the heartiness of ground beef with the Mexican-inspired flavors of tomato, chili, and, of course, crispy tortilla strips. Whether you’re hosting a dinner for friends, making a cozy family meal, or just in the mood for something that will warm you to your bones, this recipe will hit the spot.

This Ground Beef Tortilla Soup is loaded with protein, vegetables, and just the right amount of spice. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and packed with layers of flavor. The best part? You can make it in a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment. Let’s dive into the details of how to prepare this savory soup that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ground Beef Tortilla Soup Recipe

Here’s the step-by-step breakdown of the delicious Ground Beef Tortilla Soup:

Ingredients Needed

• Ground Beef (1 lb): The foundation of this soup. Lean ground beef adds richness without being too greasy. If you prefer, you can also swap it for ground turkey or chicken.
• Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds sweetness and depth to the soup’s base.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): The aromatic punch that enhances all the flavors.
• Canned Tomatoes (1 can, diced or crushed): Brings a tangy, slightly sweet acidity to balance the richness of the beef.
• Green Chilies (1 can, diced, or 1-2 fresh): Adds a mild heat and flavor.
• Beef Broth (4 cups): The liquid base for the soup. Beef broth will give it a deeper, more savory flavor, but chicken broth or vegetable broth can also work.
• Corn Tortillas (3-4, cut into strips): These will crisp up for garnish and give the soup its signature tortilla texture.

• Spices

  • Ground Cumin (1 tsp): Adds that earthy, warm flavor that defines many Mexican dishes.
  • Chili Powder (1 tsp): Gives the soup its signature smoky, slightly spicy kick.
  • Oregano (1/2 tsp): Complements the cumin and chili powder to deepen the flavor.
  • Salt & Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the ingredients.

• Toppings (optional but highly recommended):

  • Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
  • Sliced avocado
  • Lime wedges

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare The Tortilla Strips

   • Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Cut the corn tortillas into thin strips (about 1/2-inch wide). Lay them flat on a baking sheet in a single layer, drizzle lightly with olive oil, and toss them to coat evenly. Season with a pinch of salt.
   • Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Set aside.

2. Cook The Ground Beef

   • Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and crumbly, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes).
   • Once browned, drain any excess fat, leaving just a little for flavor.

3. Build The Soup Base

   • To the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
   • Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), green chilies, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the spices to toast and release their flavors.

4. Add Broth And Simmer

   • Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Assemble And Serve

   • To serve, ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top with the crispy tortilla strips, cheese, a dollop of sour cream, cilantro, and avocado slices. Squeeze a wedge of lime over the top for a fresh burst of acidity.
   • Enjoy while it’s still piping hot!

Ingredient Insights

• Ground Beef: The key to making this soup hearty and filling. Ground beef provides a rich, savory base that pairs perfectly with the spices and broth. You can use lean ground beef to reduce the fat content, or if you’re feeling indulgent, use regular ground beef for a more flavorful result.
• Tortillas: Cutting corn tortillas into strips and baking them until crispy is a brilliant way to add texture to the soup without making it soggy. This method creates a delightful contrast between the crunchy topping and the soothing liquid base.
• Chilies and Spices: The balance of cumin, chili powder, and oregano gives the soup its earthy warmth, while the green chilies add a mild heat. The combination of these ingredients evokes a sense of comfort, yet delivers enough bold flavor to keep your taste buds intrigued.
• Cheese and Sour Cream: These toppings are not just for flavor-they also serve to cool down the heat from the chilies, giving you a perfect balance in every spoonful.

Expert Tips

• Use a Leaner Cut of Ground Beef: If you prefer a less fatty soup, use lean ground beef (90% lean or higher). It will still provide a rich flavor without the greasy texture.
• Homemade Tortilla Chips: If you’ve got extra time and want a homemade touch, try frying your tortilla strips in oil instead of baking them. This will make them extra crispy, but it’s a bit more indulgent.
• Adjusting Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, you can use a milder variety of green chilies or opt for fewer spices. For those who enjoy a spicy kick, try adding some jalapeño slices or extra chili powder to amp up the heat.
• Double the Recipe: This soup is perfect for meal prep! Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well-just store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the ground beef and replace it with black beans or lentils for a hearty, plant-based alternative. You could also add a variety of vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn.
• Chicken Tortilla Soup: Swap the ground beef for cooked, shredded chicken for a lighter, leaner protein. You could use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker prep time.
• Spicy Version: For a more intense heat, throw in some fresh chopped jalapeños or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup base for an extra punch.
• Taco Soup: Add kidney beans, corn, and bell peppers to give it a more substantial texture, making it even closer to a taco in soup form.

Final Words

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the spot like a warm bowl of soup. This Ground Beef Tortilla Soup is the perfect balance of hearty and fresh, with flavors that burst in every bite. The richness of the beef, the tanginess of the tomatoes, the slight heat from the chilies, and the crunch of the tortilla strips make for a truly satisfying meal.

Whether you’re looking to feed a crowd, meal prep for the week, or simply enjoy a bowl on a chilly evening, this recipe is a winner. It’s customizable, quick, and absolutely delicious.