Save
This chili-style ground beef soup is the perfect bowl of comfort when you want something hearty and bubbling with bold flavors. Combining tender ground beef with beans and a melange of chili spices, it brings warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful.
I first made this recipe on a spontaneous weekend and it quickly became a go-to when I wanted something both comforting and packed with flavor. The smell alone fills the kitchen with inviting spices that make everyone eager to gather around the table.
Ingredients You Need
- Ground beef: provides protein and a savory base& choose lean to keep it hearty but not greasy
- Olive oil: to gently sauté and bring out aromatics
- Small onion: adds a subtle sweetness and depth& select firm with no soft spots
- Garlic: infuses the soup with that signature warm aromatic punch
- Chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano: build layered spice notes& fresh spices always make a difference
- Salt and black pepper: for seasoning balance
- Canned diced tomatoes and tomato sauce: create the rich, tangy body of the soup& look for no salt added if you want control over saltiness
- Canned beans—kidney, pinto, or black: bring fiber and texture& pick cans with no extra preservatives
- Beef broth: adds umami and thins the soup to just the right consistency& homemade broth enhances flavor when possible
Detailed Cooking Directions
- Build the Flavor Foundation:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook patiently until soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. This gentle cooking brings out natural sweetness and forms the base.
- Brown the Beef and Garlic:
- Add minced garlic followed by the ground beef. Break the meat apart with a wooden spoon as it browns thoroughly. If the pan releases excess fat, drain it off to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
- Toast the Spices:
- Sprinkle chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper over the browned meat. Stir continuously for a full minute allowing the oils in the spices to bloom and really infuse the mixture.
- Combine Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth:
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, drained and rinsed beans, and beef broth. Stir everything together making sure the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Simmer and Meld:
- Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 20 to 25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This slow simmer melds flavors and thickens the soup naturally.
- Final Seasoning and Serve:
- Check the consistency and add a little more broth if the soup is thicker than you prefer. Taste and adjust salt or spice levels. Serve steaming hot with toppings like shredded cheese or chopped cilantro for extra texture and flavor.
I love adding a touch of freshly squeezed lime juice just before serving for a bright twist. Once, when hosting friends, we enjoyed this alongside freshly baked cornbread& those simple sides made the evenings so special and inviting.
Smart Storage Tips
Soup stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors deepen overnight, so the next day can be even better. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions and thaw in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove. Avoid microwaving too aggressively to keep the meat tender.
Ingredient Variations
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for different dietary options
Add diced bell peppers or corn for extra sweetness and texture
Experiment with beans& using black beans gives a slightly creamier mouthfeel while kidney beans add a hearty bite
Perfect Pairing Ideas
Serve with warm tortillas or crunchy tortilla chips to scoop up every savory spoonful
A side of avocado slices or guacamole adds a cool, creamy contrast
Pair with a crisp green salad tossed in a light citrus vinaigrette to brighten the meal
Seasonal Makeovers
In colder months, toss in chopped kale or spinach near the end of cooking for warmth and nutrition
Summer versions could feature fresh tomatoes and a squeeze of lime for brightness
Top with freshly chopped jalapeños for an extra kick when you want to spice things up
This soup always reminds me of cozy evenings when the house fills with the scent of spices and comfort. Making it feels like welcoming warmth into the kitchen, one ladle at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What spices are used to flavor this chili-style soup?
The soup features chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and dried oregano to create its distinctive warm and smoky flavor.
- → Can I adjust the spice level in this dish?
Yes, you can increase or decrease the chili powder amount to suit your preferred heat intensity.
- → What types of beans work best in this soup?
Kidney, pinto, or black beans are all great choices, adding texture and protein to the soup.
- → How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
Mashing some of the beans before stirring them in helps thicken the soup naturally.
- → What toppings complement this chili-inspired soup?
Shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and tortilla chips add flavor and texture as finishing touches.
- → Is it necessary to drain the excess fat after cooking the ground beef?
Draining excess fat is optional but recommended for a leaner, less greasy soup.