This dish is a warm and filling mix of ground beef and creamy chicken soup. It’s quick to make and is perfect for busy nights when you need something tasty!
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just brown the beef, mix in the soup, and let it cook. It’s a great comfort food that makes everyone feel at home. Plus, it pairs well with rice or bread!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: A pound of ground beef is perfect for this recipe for a hearty base. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using ground turkey or chicken, which work well too. For a vegetarian alternative, try using lentils or a meat substitute.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, you can use homemade cream of chicken soup or opt for cream of mushroom soup. Dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream can also work.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: These provide flavor and a bit of heat. If you don’t have this specific kind, regular diced tomatoes with a pinch of cayenne pepper or jalapeños will do just fine.
Taco Seasoning: This is key for that South-of-the-Border flavor. If you don’t have it on hand, mix up a blend of cumin, paprika, and chili powder for a quick homemade version.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright taste as a garnish. If you’re not a fan, parsley or even green onions are great alternatives that can still add freshness.
How Do I Get the Ground Beef to Brown Perfectly?
Getting perfect browned ground beef is crucial for flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot pan, which helps sear the meat. Don’t overcrowd the pan; if you’re cooking more than a pound, split it into batches.
- Use a wooden spoon to break up the beef as it cooks, allowing even browning. Avoid stirring too much, as it can prevent browning.
- Drain excess grease if there’s too much; this keeps your soup from getting greasy.
Taking your time and letting the beef crust up lightly will give your soup great depth of flavor!
Hearty Ground Beef and Cream of Chicken Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For Garnish:
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup tortilla strips
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large pot set over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it until browned, using a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. If there’s any excess grease, drain it off carefully to keep your soup nice and healthy.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic into the pot with the beef. Sauté everything together for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are nice and tender. You’ll love the aroma!
3. Mix in the Soupy Ingredients:
Now, stir in the cream of chicken soup, the undrained diced tomatoes, the beef broth, and taco seasoning. Mix everything well so all those delicious flavors combine.
4. Simmer and Blend the Flavors:
Bring the whole mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 15–20 minutes, stirring it occasionally. This will help the flavors meld beautifully together.
5. Season and Adjust Consistency:
After simmering, taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. If you find the soup is too thick for your liking, don’t hesitate to add a bit more beef broth until it reaches your preferred consistency.
6. Add the Cheese:
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup becomes creamy. Yum!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the soup hot, and don’t forget to garnish it with diced avocado, tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges on the side to squeeze over the top. It adds a delightful fresh flavor!
Enjoy your hearty and comforting ground beef and cream of chicken soup!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat as a substitute. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, especially if you choose a leaner meat like turkey.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to kick up the heat, consider adding extra diced green chilies or a dash of hot sauce. You can also replace the taco seasoning with a spicier blend or add some chopped jalapeños for an extra layer of flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, this soup stores well! You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just allow it to cool before transferring to an airtight container. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove and add a splash of broth if needed to adjust the consistency.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stovetop.
