Chicken Tortilla Soup Ground Round Recipe

Chicken Tortilla Soup is one of those classic comfort foods that’s equal parts hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s the perfect dish for a chilly day, a cozy family dinner, or even when you need something quick and easy to prepare that will leave you feeling full and content. What makes it so special is the combination of tender chicken, bold spices, fresh vegetables, and crunchy tortilla strips all simmered together in a delicious, savory broth. The addition of ground round (or ground beef) adds a twist, giving the soup a richer, meatier base. If you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine, this is a must-try recipe!

This version is versatile, allowing you to customize the spice level, toppings, and even the protein used. So, whether you prefer a milder soup or you like it with an extra kick, there’s a way to make it your own.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect Chicken Tortilla Soup with ground round, from the ingredients to the cooking process, to expert tips and recipe variations. Let’s dive in!

Chicken Tortilla Soup Ground Round Recipe

This recipe takes the classic chicken tortilla soup and adds ground round for a richer flavor profile. The result is a deep, hearty soup with a satisfying combination of textures and tastes. Ready to get started? Here’s how you can make this crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients Needed

• 1 lb ground round – Adds a beefy richness that complements the chicken and broth.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables and ground beef.
• 1 medium onion – Diced, it provides a mild sweetness that balances the spices.
• 3 cloves garlic – Minced, to give the soup that aromatic depth.
• 1 bell pepper – Chopped, for a bit of crunch and color.
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes – Adds acidity and body to the broth.
• 4 cups chicken broth – The base of the soup; make sure it’s good quality for the best flavor.
• 2 cups cooked chicken – Shredded. You can use rotisserie chicken to save time!
• 1 can (4 oz) green chilies – For a slight heat and added flavor.
• 1 tsp ground cumin – The earthy, warm flavor is essential in any tortilla soup.
• 1 tsp chili powder – Adds that signature kick and depth of flavor.
• 1 tsp smoked paprika – For a smoky undertone.
• 1 tsp salt – To bring all the flavors together.
• ½ tsp black pepper – Adds just the right amount of sharpness.
• 1 cup corn kernels – Fresh or frozen, they add sweetness and texture.
• Tortilla strips – Either store-bought or homemade; they’ll add a wonderful crunch.
• Sour cream – For garnish, adding richness and creaminess.
• Shredded cheese – A nice meltable cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack.
• Fresh cilantro – Chopped, for a fresh herbal kick.
• Lime wedges – A squeeze of lime brightens up the soup with a burst of citrus.

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook The Ground Round

   • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground round and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove any excess fat from the pot if needed.

2. Sauté The Vegetables

   • Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Stir occasionally and cook until the onion softens, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Add The Spices And Canned Ingredients

   • Stir in the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 1 minute, allowing the spices to become fragrant.
   • Add the diced tomatoes, green chilies, chicken broth, and corn kernels. Stir to combine.

4. Simmer The Soup

   • Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Add The Chicken

   • Stir in the cooked, shredded chicken. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to ensure everything is heated through and the chicken absorbs the flavors.

6. Serve And Garnish

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and top with tortilla strips, sour cream, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Ingredient Insights

• Ground Round: Often chosen for its leaner composition compared to other ground beef cuts, ground round brings a satisfying richness to the soup without being too greasy. It’s perfect for adding a meaty base without overwhelming the other flavors.
• Chicken Broth: Using a high-quality, flavorful broth is essential in any soup. If you can, use homemade chicken broth for the richest taste. If using store-bought, look for low-sodium versions to better control the salt levels in your soup.
• Green Chilies: These small but mighty peppers bring a tangy, mild heat to the soup. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount or use a mild version.
• Tortilla Strips: Whether you fry your own or use pre-made strips, they bring a crispy, crunchy element that contrasts wonderfully with the smooth broth. They can be seasoned with a little bit of salt or chili powder to enhance their flavor.

Expert Tips

• Control the spice level: If you want a mild soup, use only a small amount of chili powder and green chilies. On the flip side, if you love spice, add more chili powder or even a chopped jalapeño for extra heat.
• Make it ahead: Tortilla soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. So, feel free to prepare it ahead of time for a quick meal the next day!
• Beef + chicken combo: If you love both beef and chicken, you can easily increase the amount of each. Just remember to adjust the seasonings accordingly to balance the flavors.
• Add some beans: For extra heartiness, add a can of black beans or pinto beans to the soup. They’ll add some texture and fiber while absorbing the delicious broth.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian version: Skip the ground round and chicken, and substitute with more vegetables (e.g., zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms) or a protein like tofu or tempeh. You can also add a can of beans for protein and texture.
• Spicy version: If you love heat, add some sliced jalapeños, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, or even a dash of hot sauce to give it an extra kick.
• Slow cooker method: You can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the ground round and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 4-6 hours for a delicious, slow-simmered soup.
• Vegan version: Use plant-based ground beef (like Beyond Meat or lentils), vegetable broth, and skip the cheese and sour cream for a totally vegan dish.

Final Words

This Chicken Tortilla Soup with ground round is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table. It’s warm, filling, and packed with bold flavors that will satisfy your hunger and your taste buds. The hearty combination of chicken and beef, along with the seasonings and toppings, makes for an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family or just looking for a meal prep winner, this soup is incredibly versatile and easy to tweak based on what you have on hand.