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This hearty chili-flavored beef soup is your go-to comfort food when you want something rich and full of bold tastes. Tender ground beef combined with beans and a mix of chili spices makes every bite warm and satisfying.
I threw this together one weekend on a whim and it quickly became my favorite comfort meal. The aroma fills the kitchen with spicy goodness that gets everyone ready to sit down and eat.
Needed Ingredients
- Lean ground beef: gives protein and a tasty base without too much fat
- Olive oil: used to gently cook the aromatics
- Small onion: adds some sweet depth; pick a firm one without soft spots
- Garlic: brings that warm, familiar spicy kick
- Chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano: layer the spices; fresh ones make it pop
- Salt and black pepper: balance the flavors
- Canned diced tomatoes and tomato sauce: give the soup its rich, tangy base; choose no salt added if you want control of saltiness
- Canned beans like kidney, pinto, or black: add texture and fiber; get cans without added preservatives
- Beef broth: adds depth and thins the soup just right; homemade broth boosts flavor even more
Step-by-Step Cooking
- Start the Base:
- Warm the olive oil in a big pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook slowly until it’s soft and clear, about 3 to 4 minutes. This slow cooking brings out its natural sweetness and sets the base.
- Cook Beef and Garlic:
- Stir in minced garlic, then add the ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon while it browns well. If there’s too much fat, pour some out to keep the soup from getting greasy.
- Spice It Up:
- Sprinkle chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper over the meat. Keep stirring for about a minute so the spices release their oils and flavor the mix.
- Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth:
- Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, drained and rinsed beans, and beef broth. Stir well to combine everything evenly.
- Simmer Slowly:
- Let the pot come to a gentle boil, then turn heat down to low. Leave it uncovered to simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir now and then so nothing sticks. This slow cook melts flavors together and thickens the soup naturally.
- Finish Up and Serve:
- If it’s too thick, add a splash more broth. Taste and fix salt or spices if needed. Serve hot with something fun on top like shredded cheese or chopped cilantro for a flavor boost.
I like to squeeze a bit of fresh lime juice in just before serving for a fresh punch. Once, when friends came over, we paired it with fresh cornbread and that simple combo made the night cozy and special.
Best Way to Store
You can keep this soup in a sealed container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors actually get better the next day. For longer, freeze individual portions and thaw them in the fridge. When warming up, do it gently on the stove so the meat stays tender and doesn’t get tough.
Swap Suggestions
Try switching ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles depending on your preference
Throw in chopped bell peppers or corn for a sweet crunch
Mix up beans to change texture—black beans are creamier, kidney beans offer a heartier bite
Tasty Side Ideas
Warm tortillas or crunchy tortilla chips go great for scooping
Add sliced avocado or guacamole for a cool creamy touch
Try a crisp green salad with a light citrus dressing to brighten things up
Seasonal Twists
In winter, stir in chopped kale or spinach near the end for added warmth and nutrients
Summer’s best with fresh tomatoes and a splash of lime for brightness
Top with chopped jalapeños when you want to turn up the heat
To me, this soup brings back those warm cozy nights. It smells like comfort and makes the kitchen feel inviting, one ladle at a time.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → Which spices give this chili-style soup its kick?
It’s all about chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and dried oregano for that smoky, warm taste.
- → Can I change how spicy this soup gets?
Definitely, just add more or less chili powder to make it as mild or hot as you like.
- → What beans work well in this kind of soup?
Kidney, pinto, or black beans all work great and add a good mix of texture and protein.
- → How do I make the soup thicker if it’s too watery?
Try mashing some beans before adding them back in to naturally thicken things up.
- → What are some tasty toppings for this chili-style soup?
Shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, and tortilla chips really kick it up.
- → Do I need to drain the fat after cooking the ground beef?
It’s up to you, but getting rid of extra fat makes the soup lighter and less greasy.