Discover how to make a delicious, smoky, and spicy chipotle ground beef soup with this easy-to-follow recipe.
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Why You’ll Love This Chipotle Ground Beef Soup
If you’re a fan of bold flavors and hearty meals, this chipotle ground beef soup will quickly become a staple in your home. Made with rich, smoky chipotle peppers, tender ground beef, and an assortment of fresh vegetables, this soup is not only comforting but also incredibly nutritious. Perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep, it’s a one-pot dish that’s simple to prepare and bursting with flavor.
What Makes This Soup Special?
- Smoky Chipotle Flavor: The chipotle peppers bring a deep, smoky heat that enhances the taste of the beef and broth.
- Easy One-Pot Meal: Minimal dishes, maximum flavor.
- Customizable Ingredients: Adjust spice levels and add extra veggies or proteins to suit your preferences.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Nutritional Benefits of Chipotle Ground Beef Soup
This soup is not only delicious but also provides a range of essential nutrients:
- Protein-Packed: Ground beef delivers a high-protein meal, helping with muscle repair and growth.
- Rich in Fiber: The addition of black beans, corn, and vegetables aids digestion and promotes gut health.
- Loaded with Vitamins and Minerals: Tomatoes provide vitamin C, while bell peppers contribute vitamin A for immune support.
- Healthy Fats: Avocado and olive oil add good fats that support heart health.
Ingredients for Chipotle Ground Beef Soup
To make this flavorful chipotle ground beef soup, gather the following ingredients:
Core Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Liquid and Base:
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon oregano
Vegetables and Extras:
- 1 medium bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 medium zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 medium carrot, chopped
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro
- Sliced avocado
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Lime wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chipotle Ground Beef Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating a drizzle of oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. As the oil shimmers, add finely chopped onions, letting them sizzle and soften, their sweetness gradually intensifying. Stir occasionally, coaxing out their natural sugars until they turn translucent and fragrant.
Next, toss in minced garlic, allowing its pungent aroma to bloom as it mingles with the onions. Soon after, add finely diced bell peppers, their vibrant colors brightening the pan. Let them cook down, releasing their subtle sweetness and adding depth to the base. As the ingredients meld together, the kitchen fills with a warm, savory fragrance, an irresistible prelude to the bold flavors to come.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Push the softened aromatics to the side of the pot, making room for the star ingredient, rich, savory ground beef. Crumble it into the pan, listening for that satisfying sizzle as it makes contact with the heat. Let it sear undisturbed for a moment, allowing a golden-brown crust to develop before breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
As the beef cooks, its natural juices release, mingling with the fragrant onions, garlic, and peppers, deepening the layers of flavor. Stir occasionally, ensuring each bite-sized piece is browned to perfection, its edges slightly crisped and infused with the smoky, savory essence of the aromatics. As the meat transforms from raw to rich, browned morsels, the foundation of the soup grows heartier, preparing for the bold chipotle heat to come.
Step 3: Add Seasonings and Chipotle Peppers
With the beef beautifully browned and aromatic, it’s time to infuse the soup with deep, smoky warmth. Sprinkle in a generous blend of spices—earthy cumin, smoky paprika, and a touch of oregano—each one blooming in the heat, releasing its essence into the sizzling mixture. A pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper join the medley, enhancing every layer of flavor.
Now, the star of the show: chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Spoon in finely chopped chipotle peppers, their deep red hue hinting at the bold smokiness they’ll impart. Stir in a spoonful of the rich, tangy adobo sauce, letting its velvety texture coat the beef and aromatics. As the spices meld with the heat of the chipotle, the mixture transforms, taking on a sultry depth that will define the soul of this soup. A quick stir ensures every bite is infused with bold, complex flavor, setting the stage for the next layer of comforting ingredients.
Step 4: Pour in Liquids and Simmer
With the rich, smoky beef mixture sizzling in the pot, it’s time to introduce the soul-warming liquids that will bring the soup to life. Slowly pour in a hearty splash of beef broth, its deep, savory essence lifting every browned bit from the bottom of the pan, infusing the broth with an extra layer of roasted flavor. Next, add a can of fire-roasted tomatoes, their slightly charred sweetness balancing the smoky heat of the chipotle. Stir gently, watching as the ingredients swirl together, their colors deepening into a rich, inviting hue.
For an extra touch of heartiness, a ladleful of black beans or corn can be added, their textures complementing the velvety broth. As the pot comes to a gentle simmer, the flavors begin to marry, the broth thickening slightly as it absorbs every note of spice, smoke, and umami. Let it bubble softly, the steam carrying hints of chipotle and roasted tomato through the air. This slow simmer allows each ingredient to fully develop, ensuring every spoonful is packed with deep, comforting flavor.
Step 5: Add Vegetables
As the broth simmers and the flavors deepen, it’s time to introduce a vibrant medley of vegetables, adding texture, color, and freshness to the soup. Gently stir in diced zucchini, their pale green flesh soaking up the smoky, spiced broth as they soften. Next, scatter in sweet corn kernels, each golden morsel bringing a subtle pop of sweetness that balances the heat of the chipotle.
For an extra layer of heartiness, toss in tender black beans, their earthy richness adding depth to every spoonful. Bell peppers, sliced into strips or diced, mingle into the pot, their crisp edges yielding as they absorb the bold, savory essence of the soup. Each vegetable contributes its own unique texture, creating a dynamic balance between velvety broth and tender bites.
As the pot continues to simmer, the vegetables soften just enough to meld into the soup without losing their vibrant essence. Their natural sweetness and fresh flavors contrast beautifully against the smoky spice, creating a perfectly rounded, comforting dish that’s rich in both taste and texture.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
As the soup gently simmers, its aromas filling the kitchen with smoky warmth, it’s time for the final, crucial step: tasting and perfecting. Dip a spoon into the rich, velvety broth and take a slow, thoughtful sip. Let the flavors settle on your palate: does the smoky chipotle shine through? Is there enough depth from the spices? Does it need a touch more salt to bring everything into perfect harmony?
If the heat feels too bold, a squeeze of fresh lime juice can brighten and balance the flavors, cutting through the richness with a hint of citrusy zing. If the soup needs a deeper, more savory backbone, a dash of salt or a sprinkle of cumin will amplify its complexity. For those who crave an extra kick, a pinch of cayenne or an extra spoonful of adobo sauce can take the heat to the next level.
Gently stir in any final adjustments, letting the ingredients meld for a few more minutes. This step is where the magic happens: where the soup transforms from delicious to absolutely perfect, tailored exactly to your taste. With each tweak, the flavors settle into their rightful place, ensuring that every spoonful is bold, balanced, and irresistibly comforting.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
It’s time to ladle it into bowls and bring it to life with the finishing touches. As you pour the rich, chipotle-infused broth over the tender vegetables and hearty beef, the steam rises, carrying with it the deep aromas of roasted tomatoes, warm spices, and slow-simmered perfection.
A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro adds a pop of herbal brightness, its fresh green hue standing out against the deep, red-hued broth.
Variations and Substitutions
Protein Swaps
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a leaner alternative, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based crumbles or lentils instead of meat for a hearty vegetarian version.
Additional Vegetables
- Spinach or Kale: Stir in greens during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.
- Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms for an umami boost.
Spice Adjustments
- Milder Soup: Use fewer chipotle peppers or remove the seeds for less heat.
- Extra Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Tips for Enhancing Flavor
Want to take your chipotle ground beef soup to the next level? Try these expert tips:
- Use Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: They add a natural smoky depth to the soup.
- Roast the Peppers: If using fresh bell peppers, roasting them beforehand intensifies their sweetness.
- Simmer Longer: Letting the soup cook for an extra 10–15 minutes deepens the flavors.
- Add a Touch of Honey: A small drizzle balances the heat from the chipotle peppers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! Brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic before transferring everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Is the Beef at Chipotle Grass-Fed?
Chipotle has stated that they source responsibly raised beef, with a focus on quality and ethical standards. However, they do not exclusively use grass-fed beef at all locations.
Final Thoughts
This chipotle ground beef soup is the ultimate comfort food with a spicy twist. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or meal prepping for the week, it’s a satisfying and flavorful choice. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out!
For more delicious recipes, check out this Hearty Soup Recipe!