Name: Mexican Beef, Tomato, and Bean Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 1 can black or kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 4 cups beef or chicken broth; 1 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; Salt and pepper, to taste; Lime wedges; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Shredded cheese

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 147 reviews

If you are craving something hearty, comforting, and bursting with vibrant flavors, the Mexican Beef, Tomato, and Bean Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish combines the warmth of seasoned ground beef, the tangy sweetness of tomatoes, and the satisfying creaminess of black beans to create a bowl that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day. It’s incredibly family-friendly and perfect for any occasion when you want that bold Mexican-inspired taste without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various cooking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. There are two small clear glass bowls, one containing bright red sliced bell peppers with a smooth, shiny texture, and the other filled with chopped purple onions showing layers and a slightly translucent look. Above them, a third clear bowl holds a mix of spices in brown, orange, and green hues with a powdery texture. In the lower area, there are two black cans, one labeled

Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the key to making this soup truly shine. Each element contributes a unique texture, color, or depth of flavor that, when combined, creates an irresistible bowl of soul-warming delight.

1 lb ground beef: Provides rich protein and the hearty base for the soup’s meaty flavor.
1 onion, diced: Adds a sweet and savory foundation that perfectly complements the spices.
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz): Brings juiciness and a subtle acidity for balance.
1 can black or kidney beans: Offers creamy texture and extra protein for a filling meal.
4 cups beef or chicken broth: Creates the flavorful liquid body that ties everything together.
1 tbsp chili powder: Gives the soup its signature smoky and mildly spicy kick.
1 tsp cumin: Introduces a warm, earthy note that enhances the Mexican flavor profile.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors.
Lime, cilantro, shredded cheese: Fresh garnishes that add brightness and creaminess to finish the dish beautifully.

How to Make Mexican Beef, Tomato, and Bean Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and adding the ground beef along with diced onions. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions are translucent, making sure to break up the meat so it cooks evenly. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy while retaining that delicious beefy flavor.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices, followed by the drained and rinsed beans. Next, add the broth of your choice—beef or chicken will both work beautifully. This step builds the soup’s rich liquid base, balancing the ingredients for a well-rounded bowl.

Step 3: Season with Spices

Sprinkle in the chili powder and cumin, then stir everything well. These spices are the heart of this Mexican Beef, Tomato, and Bean Soup Recipe, infusing each spoonful with that authentic warmth and complexity you crave in Mexican-inspired dishes.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the soup to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together. This simmer also helps thicken the soup slightly, making it perfect for spooning up with your favorite tortilla chips.

How to Serve Mexican Beef, Tomato, and Bean Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Nothing elevates this soup like fresh garnishes. A squeeze of lime juice adds a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness, while a sprinkle of chopped cilantro brings a fresh herbaceous note. For extra indulgence, add shredded cheese that melts delightfully into the hot soup.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping. A simple green salad or Mexican-style street corn on the side can elevate your meal with contrasting textures and flavors, perfect for a complete dining experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in rustic bowls with a dollop of sour cream on top and a few extra sprigs of cilantro for a vibrant pop of color. You can also offer an assortment of toppings like diced avocado, jalapeño slices, or even a handful of crushed tortilla chips to let everyone customize their bowls just how they like.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Mexican Beef, Tomato, and Bean Soup Recipe tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent make-ahead meal. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, keeping those bold flavors intact.

Freezing

If you’d like to stock up, this soup freezes beautifully. Place cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or bags, then freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, simply thaw overnight in the fridge for convenient, comforting meals anytime.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving at high power to preserve the soup’s texture and flavor, though it certainly works in a pinch.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey makes for a leaner option and will still absorb the chili and cumin spices beautifully, creating a lighter but just as tasty version of this soup.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, swap the ground beef for a plant-based protein like textured vegetable protein or extra beans and use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth for a satisfying vegetarian twist.

How spicy is this Mexican Beef, Tomato, and Bean Soup Recipe?

The chili powder adds a moderate warmth that’s mild enough for most palates but can be increased for more heat. Feel free to add fresh jalapeños or hot sauce for extra spice.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Corn, bell peppers, or zucchini all make fantastic additions and add lovely color and texture without overpowering the soup’s signature flavor.

What is the best way to thicken the soup?

If you prefer a thicker soup, allow it to simmer a bit longer uncovered, or mash some of the beans against the pot’s side with a spoon to naturally thicken the broth.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Beef, Tomato, and Bean Soup Recipe truly feels like a warm, comforting embrace in a bowl. Its combination of hearty beef, vibrant tomatoes, creamy beans, and zesty spices is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Don’t hesitate to try it out—you’re going to love sharing this cozy, flavorful dish with your friends and family time and time again.