Mexican Beef and Rice Soup: A Delicious Comfort Food
There’s something truly special about a warm bowl of soup that brings family and friends together, and this Mexican Beef and Rice Soup is a perfect example. It combines comforting flavors and textures into a hearty dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrition. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a cozy weekend gathering, this recipe makes for a delightful main meal or a satisfying starter. A hint of spices coupled with tender beef and rice makes it not just comforting but also a nourishing option for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is all about convenience without compromising on flavor. It’s an excellent option for a quick weeknight dinner, yet it feels special enough for gatherings. Budget-friendly and easy to prepare, it’s also kid-approved, making it a go-to recipe for families. Imagine sitting down to a steaming bowl of soup that warms both your heart and your stomach—a true comfort food experience.
"I made this soup for my family and it was a hit! So flavorful and easy to make!" – Happy Home Cook
How to Make Mexican Beef and Rice Soup
Making this dish is a breeze! It involves browning ground beef, sautéing some aromatic veggies, and then simmering everything together for a comforting soup that’s ready in under an hour. Gather your ingredients, and follow along for a satisfying culinary experience.
Ingredients
Gather these items for the flavorful soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Substitution Tips: If you want a leaner option, consider using ground turkey. For a vegetarian version, swap out the beef for lentils or extra beans.
Directions
- In a large pot, heat over medium heat and brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent.
- Stir in the chili powder and cumin, cooking for an additional minute for a fragrant base.
- Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, rice, black beans, and corn. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste for extra flavor.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this delicious soup with a side of avocado salad or crispy tortilla chips for added texture and flavor. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese takes it to the next level, making each bowl even more indulgent. This soup is perfect for serving at family dinners, celebrations, or casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the soup for a quick meal later on—just make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove until heated through.
Pro Tips
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice right before serving. This will enhance the overall taste and brighten the dish. Cooking the beef with some diced jalapeños will give it a delightful kick if you prefer a spicier soup. Additionally, do not hesitate to add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance nutrition.
Variations
Feel free to mix it up! You can use different beans, such as pinto or kidney beans, or even throw in some diced bell peppers for a colorful twist. If you’re looking for a heartier version, add diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash. For those who love vibrant flavors, top the soup with freshly chopped avocado, lime wedges, or even a swirl of sour cream.
FAQs
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! The flavors deepen when it sits for a day, making it a fantastic make-ahead option.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice will require a longer cooking time. Adjust the simmering time accordingly.
Is this soup spicy?
Not overly—it’s mildly spiced, but you can always adjust the chili powder to suit your heat preference!
Want to explore more delicious recipes? Check out our post on hearty vegetable soups or add a little zing with spicy taco soup!
Print
Mexican Beef and Rice Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A warm and comforting Mexican Beef and Rice Soup that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrition.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat over medium heat and brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent.
- Stir in the chili powder and cumin, cooking for an additional minute for a fragrant base.
- Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, rice, black beans, and corn. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste for extra flavor.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Notes
For an extra kick, consider adding jalapeños or a splash of lime juice before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg