Hearty Tex-Mex Beef Soup (Printable Version)

Hearty blend of seasoned beef, beans, corn, and zesty tomatoes—ready in 45 minutes for family meals or gatherings.

# Ingredient List:

→ Meats

01 - 1 pound ground beef

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium onion, diced
03 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Canned Goods

05 - 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
06 - 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
07 - 1 can (15 ounces) corn kernels, drained
08 - 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
09 - 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
10 - 4 cups chicken broth

→ Spices and Seasonings

11 - 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
12 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
13 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
14 - 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
15 - Salt and black pepper to taste

# Steps:

01 - In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
02 - Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
03 - Stir in the taco seasoning, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to release the aromatic compounds.
04 - Add the black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
05 - Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
06 - Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices as needed to achieve desired flavor balance.
07 - Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot with desired toppings.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in under an hour using ingredients you probably already have stashed away.
  • The flavors deepen as it simmers, filling your kitchen with that smoky, spiced warmth that makes everyone wander in asking whats for dinner.
  • Toppings turn every bowl into a choose your own adventure, so picky eaters and spice lovers both leave happy.
02 -
  • Draining and rinsing the beans is non negotiable, skipping this step leaves the broth cloudy and overly starchy.
  • Let the spices bloom in the pot for a full minute before adding liquids, this small pause unlocks a depth of flavor that raw spices can't give you.
  • If your soup tastes flat, a squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end will brighten everything instantly.
03 -
  • Use a Dutch oven if you have one, it holds heat evenly and makes the simmer gentle and consistent.
  • If you want a thicker soup, mash a few spoonfuls of beans against the side of the pot before serving.
  • Make a double batch and freeze half, future you will be very grateful on a busy night.
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