There’s something magical about a big, steaming bowl of soup. It’s warm, comforting, and feels like a cozy hug in food form. This Creamy Mexican-Inspired Tortilla Soup is exactly that kind of meal. Packed with bold, rich flavors and a creamy, satisfying texture, this soup is destined to become a family favorite. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty weeknight dinner or a delightful appetizer for a festive gathering, this soup ticks all the boxes.
I remember the first time I tried a creamy tortilla soup during a trip to a little family-owned Mexican restaurant. The blend of spices, creamy base, and the slight heat from the jalapeño created such an unforgettable experience. It was the perfect mix of comfort and excitement, and I knew I had to recreate that magic at home. After a few attempts, I found the perfect balance of ingredients that gives this soup its irresistible charm.
What makes this recipe so special is how easily it comes together. With simple, everyday ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have this soup ready to go in just about 30 minutes. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Whether you prefer a plant-based version with coconut milk or a classic creamy touch with heavy cream, this recipe accommodates everyone’s tastes.
Another wonderful aspect of this recipe is how customizable it is. You can adjust the spice level to your liking, add your favorite toppings, or even tweak the ingredients to make it heartier or lighter. The result? A comforting, creamy, and utterly delicious soup that’s perfect for all occasions.
So, if you’re looking for a recipe that brings warmth, comfort, and loads of flavor to your table, this Creamy Mexican-Inspired Tortilla Soup is exactly what you need. Let’s dive into what makes this soup so special and why you’re going to love making it again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this creamy, flavorful soup. From its quick preparation to its rich taste, here’s why this recipe deserves a place in your regular rotation:
Easy to Make: This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something delicious and satisfying on the table fast. With just a bit of chopping and simmering, you can have a comforting meal ready in about 30 minutes.
Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of garlic, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika provides that authentic, bold Mexican-inspired flavor. Adding a squeeze of lime at the end brings everything together with a burst of freshness.
Versatile and Customizable: Prefer it spicier? Keep the jalapeño seeds or add extra chili powder. Want it creamier? Opt for heavy cream. Need a dairy-free option? Use coconut milk instead. This soup adapts to your preferences effortlessly.
Healthy and Nutritious: Loaded with veggies, black beans, and corn, this soup is packed with nutrients and plant-based goodness. It’s hearty without being overly heavy, making it a feel-good meal you can enjoy any time of the year.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for make-ahead meals. It’s also freezer-friendly, which is a lifesaver on those days when cooking feels like a chore.
Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing: With all the toppings you can add, from tortilla strips to shredded cheese, this soup can easily be made fun and appealing for kids and adults alike.
One-Pot Wonder: Less mess, less stress. Everything comes together in a single pot, which means fewer dishes to clean afterward. What’s not to love about that?
In short, this Creamy Mexican-Inspired Tortilla Soup is comforting, hearty, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a crowd, this recipe will leave everyone satisfied and asking for more.
Health Benefits
Beyond its mouthwatering flavor and satisfying texture, this soup packs quite a nutritious punch. It’s not just comfort food; it’s also a healthy meal option that you can feel good about enjoying.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein: Thanks to the black beans, this soup offers a good dose of plant-based protein, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to reduce their meat intake or follow a vegetarian diet. Black beans are also loaded with essential nutrients like iron, magnesium, and folate.
High in Fiber: The combination of beans, corn, and vegetables like carrots and bell peppers provides an impressive amount of dietary fiber. Fiber is essential for healthy digestion, maintaining stable blood sugar levels, and promoting overall heart health.
Vitamins and Minerals: With ingredients like bell peppers, carrots, garlic, and tomatoes, this soup is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants that help protect your body against inflammation and cell damage.
Heart-Healthy Fats: If you choose to use coconut milk, you’ll be adding a source of healthy fats known to support brain function and provide sustained energy. Olive oil, used for sautéing the vegetables, also offers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
Weight Management-Friendly: Despite its creamy texture, this soup remains relatively low in calories, especially if you opt for coconut milk instead of heavy cream. It’s filling and satisfying without being overly rich or calorie-dense.
Boosts Immunity: Ingredients like garlic, onions, and bell peppers are known for their immune-boosting properties. Garlic, in particular, contains compounds that help strengthen the immune system.
Anti-Inflammatory Benefits: Spices like cumin and smoked paprika contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce symptoms of inflammation throughout the body.
Gluten-Free Option: As written, this soup is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free tortilla chips or strips. It’s a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Whether you’re looking for a wholesome meal to support your health goals or just craving something delicious, this soup has you covered. It’s the perfect blend of flavor, nutrition, and comfort, all in one satisfying bowl.
Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information
To make sure you have everything you need to plan your meal, here’s a breakdown of the preparation time, servings, and approximate nutritional information for this Creamy Mexican-Inspired Tortilla Soup.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings:
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings, which is perfect for a family dinner or for meal-prepping throughout the week.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: Approximately 320
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fats: 15g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 780mg
Important Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used. To reduce calories and fat content, you can use light coconut milk or low-fat cream.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to create this comforting, creamy, and satisfying soup.
Ingredients List
Before you start cooking, let’s make sure you have everything you need on hand. This recipe calls for basic pantry staples and fresh ingredients that are easy to find in most grocery stores.
For the Soup:
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Adds a beautiful, subtle richness to sauté the vegetables, enhancing their natural sweetness.
- Medium onion (1), chopped: Provides a flavorful base and adds depth to the soup.
- Red bell pepper (1), diced: Adds sweetness, vibrant color, and a bit of crunch.
- Medium carrot (1), chopped: Adds natural sweetness and nutrients to the soup.
- Jalapeño (1), seeded and diced (optional): Brings a touch of heat. Feel free to leave this out if you prefer a milder soup.
- Garlic (3 cloves), minced: Essential for that rich, savory aroma and depth of flavor.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz – fire-roasted if possible): Adds acidity and a hint of smokiness if you choose fire-roasted tomatoes.
- Black beans (1 can, 15 oz), drained & rinsed: Provides plant-based protein and fiber, making the soup hearty and satisfying.
- Corn kernels (1 cup – fresh, frozen, or canned): Adds a touch of sweetness and texture.
- Vegetable broth (4 cups): Forms the base of the soup, providing rich, savory flavor. Feel free to use chicken broth if you prefer.
- Heavy cream or coconut milk (1/2 cup): Creates that luxurious, creamy texture. Coconut milk adds a subtle tropical flavor, while heavy cream offers pure, velvety richness.
- Ground cumin (1 tsp): Adds warm, earthy flavor that’s essential to the overall taste.
- Chili powder (1/2 tsp): Provides a subtle heat and depth of flavor.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 tsp): Brings a smoky, slightly sweet note that elevates the whole soup.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing flavors and enhancing the spices.
- Juice of 1 lime: Adds brightness and a refreshing zing to the soup.
For Toppings (Optional but Highly Recommended!):
- Sliced avocado: Creamy and rich, perfect for adding texture and healthy fats.
- Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips: Adds that irresistible crunch, making each spoonful a delight.
- Cilantro, chopped: Provides a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor.
- Shredded cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack works well if you like an extra layer of creaminess.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt: For a cool, creamy contrast to the warm, spiced soup.
- Lime wedges: Serve on the side for those who like an extra squeeze of citrusy brightness.
Now that your ingredients are ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for making this creamy, satisfying soup.
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions
Making this Creamy Mexican-Inspired Tortilla Soup couldn’t be simpler. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a steaming, delicious pot of soup ready to enjoy in no time.
Step 1: Cook the Veggies
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion, diced red bell pepper, chopped carrot, and diced jalapeño (if using).
- Sauté the vegetables, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and the carrots and bell pepper have softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly. You’ll know it’s ready when the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
Pro Tip: Make sure to stir frequently while cooking the garlic to prevent it from burning, as that can create a bitter taste.
Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, drained and rinsed black beans, corn kernels, and vegetable broth.
- Give everything a good stir to combine.
- Sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir again to ensure the spices are well distributed.
- Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This simmering process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Pro Tip: Taste the soup halfway through simmering and adjust the seasonings as needed. Feel free to add a bit more cumin or chili powder if you like a stronger flavor.
Step 3: Make It Creamy
- Once the soup has simmered and all the flavors have mingled, it’s time to add the creamy element.
- Pour in the heavy cream or coconut milk and stir well to incorporate.
- Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes. This brief simmering allows the creamy ingredient to blend seamlessly with the broth, creating a luscious, smooth texture.
Pro Tip: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or transfer about a cup of the soup to a regular blender, then return it to the pot.
Step 4: Add the Final Touches
- Just before serving, add the freshly squeezed lime juice and stir to combine.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Adding a bit more salt or a dash of pepper can make all the difference.
Pro Tip: Lime juice is the secret ingredient that brightens the whole soup, enhancing all the other flavors. Don’t skip this step!
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and get ready to have some fun with toppings.
- Add your favorite toppings, such as sliced avocado, tortilla strips, chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Serve with extra lime wedges on the side for those who enjoy an extra hit of citrusy goodness.
Pro Tip: For an extra-crispy topping, toast tortilla strips in the oven at 375°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
Step 6: Enjoy!
- Dig into your creamy, flavorful masterpiece. Each spoonful delivers a satisfying combination of creamy, spicy, smoky, and fresh flavors.
Now that your delicious soup is ready, it’s time to think about how best to serve and enjoy it. Let’s explore some serving and pairing suggestions that will elevate your meal even further.
How to Serve
This Creamy Mexican-Inspired Tortilla Soup is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are some fantastic ways to enjoy it:
- As a Main Dish: Serve it as a hearty, satisfying meal by itself. The combination of beans, corn, and creamy broth is filling enough to be enjoyed as the star of your dinner table.
- With a Side of Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread or soft dinner rolls to dip into the creamy, flavorful broth.
- With a Simple Salad: Pair with a refreshing side salad made of arugula, spinach, or mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
- As an Appetizer: Serve smaller portions as a starter for a Mexican-themed dinner.
- Taco Night Companion: Pair this soup with tacos or quesadillas for a delightful, comforting feast.
- With a Rice Bowl: Serve alongside a simple rice bowl for an extra-filling meal.
This soup’s versatility makes it a wonderful addition to any meal plan. Now, let’s talk about some excellent pairing suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Pairing Suggestions
Pairing this Creamy Mexican-Inspired Tortilla Soup with the right sides and beverages can elevate your dining experience to a whole new level. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or serving it at a casual gathering, these pairing ideas will complement the flavors perfectly.
Bread & Grains
- Cornbread: A slightly sweet, moist slice of cornbread is the perfect companion for this creamy, spicy soup. The sweetness of the cornbread balances the spice and enhances the overall experience.
- Warm Tortillas: Soft, warm flour or corn tortillas served on the side provide an excellent vehicle for dipping and scooping up the flavorful broth.
- Cilantro-Lime Rice: For a heartier meal, serve the soup with a side of fragrant cilantro-lime rice. The fresh, citrusy notes of the rice beautifully complement the smoky and creamy flavors of the soup.
Salad Pairings
- Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote Salad): A creamy, zesty corn salad with crumbled cheese, fresh cilantro, and lime juice makes a perfect match. It adds a crunchy and refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
- Avocado and Tomato Salad: A simple salad of ripe avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and lime vinaigrette offers a refreshing, colorful side dish that enhances the creamy and spicy notes of the soup.
Drinks
- Agua Fresca: Light, refreshing fruit drinks like watermelon, pineapple, or cucumber-lime agua fresca pair wonderfully with the bold flavors of the soup.
- Iced Tea: A chilled, unsweetened iced tea with a splash of lemon balances the richness of the soup, making it an ideal beverage choice.
- Sparkling Water with Citrus: If you prefer something light and refreshing, sparkling water with a twist of lime or lemon provides a crisp, clean contrast to the creamy, spiced soup.
Additional Toppings and Sides
- Quesadillas: Serve with cheese-stuffed quesadillas for a delicious, cheesy pairing. The crunchy, melty quesadillas add another layer of comfort to the meal.
- Nachos: Top tortilla chips with melted cheese, jalapeños, and salsa, and serve as a crunchy, flavorful side.
- Sliced Fresh Veggies: For a lighter option, serve a side of fresh veggies like celery, carrots, or bell pepper slices with a creamy avocado dip.
Pairing this soup with the right sides and drinks will enhance the dining experience, making it feel like a complete and satisfying meal. Now, let’s talk about how you can store, freeze, and reheat this delicious soup without losing its creamy texture and bold flavors.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions
One of the best things about this Creamy Mexican-Inspired Tortilla Soup is how well it stores and reheats. Whether you want to make it ahead for meal prep or save leftovers for another day, here’s how to do it.
Storing in the Refrigerator
- Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Transfer the soup to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- When reheating, warm the soup over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Tip: If the soup thickens too much when refrigerated, add a splash of vegetable broth, water, or coconut milk while reheating to achieve the desired consistency.
Freezing for Later
- This soup is freezer-friendly and can be stored for up to 3 months.
- To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion during freezing.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
- To thaw, place the frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight.
Tip: If you used heavy cream, be aware that freezing may cause slight separation. To restore the creamy texture, gently whisk the soup while reheating.
Reheating Instructions
- Stovetop: Heat the soup over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring midway to ensure even heating.
Tip: Always taste the soup after reheating and adjust the seasonings if necessary. A fresh squeeze of lime juice can help revive the flavors.
Knowing how to store, freeze, and reheat this soup means you can always have a comforting, flavorful meal ready to go. Now, let’s make sure you avoid common mistakes that could affect your cooking process.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best recipes can go wrong if you’re not aware of potential pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making this Creamy Mexican-Inspired Tortilla Soup.
1. Adding Cream or Coconut Milk Too Early
One of the most important steps is adding the heavy cream or coconut milk toward the end of cooking. Adding it too early and letting it boil can cause the cream to curdle or the coconut milk to separate. Always let the soup simmer and meld the flavors before adding the creamy element.
2. Not Sautéing the Vegetables Properly
Sautéing the onions, bell peppers, carrots, and jalapeños until they’re softened is crucial for building depth of flavor. If you rush this step, the soup may taste flat. Take the time to let the vegetables cook and release their natural sweetness.
3. Over- or Under-Seasoning
Seasoning is key to a flavorful soup. Be sure to taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and spices as needed. Under-seasoning will result in a bland soup, while over-seasoning can be overpowering.
4. Overcooking the Soup
Simmering the soup for too long can break down the vegetables too much, resulting in a mushy texture. Once the vegetables are tender and the flavors have blended (about 15 minutes of simmering), the soup is ready for the cream to be added.
5. Skipping the Lime Juice
Lime juice is not just a garnish; it’s an essential ingredient that brightens the flavors of the soup. Without it, the soup may taste too rich or heavy. Always finish with a generous squeeze of lime juice.
6. Forgetting the Toppings
The toppings are more than just a pretty presentation; they add essential texture and flavor to the soup. Don’t skip the tortilla strips, avocado, cilantro, or cheese if you want the full experience.
By keeping these potential pitfalls in mind, you’ll be sure to end up with a delicious, creamy, and flavorful soup every time. Now, let’s move on to some pro tips that will help you achieve the absolute best results with this recipe.
Pro Tips
Want to take your Creamy Mexican-Inspired Tortilla Soup to the next level? Here are some expert tips to make sure your soup turns out perfect every single time.
1. Roast Your Vegetables for Extra Flavor
If you have a little extra time, try roasting the bell peppers, carrots, and even garlic before adding them to the soup. Roasting enhances their natural sweetness and adds a layer of smokiness that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. Simply drizzle them with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes until they’re tender and slightly charred.
2. Make It Thicker or Creamier
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend part of the soup using an immersion blender directly in the pot. Alternatively, transfer about a cup of the soup to a blender and blend until smooth before returning it to the pot. For extra creaminess, add more heavy cream or coconut milk, adjusting to your desired consistency.
3. Enhance the Smoky Flavor
If you love a deeper smoky flavor, consider using smoked salt or adding a touch more smoked paprika. You can also char the corn slightly in a hot skillet before adding it to the soup for added complexity.
4. Add Protein for a Heartier Soup
If you want to make this soup even more filling, consider adding shredded chicken or ground turkey. You can cook the meat separately and stir it in before serving. This variation works especially well if you’re serving the soup as a main dish.
5. Customize the Heat Level
The heat level of this soup is easy to adjust to your preference. For extra heat, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, simply omit the jalapeño or use only a small portion of it.
6. Use Fresh Herbs for Maximum Flavor
While dried spices are essential for building the base flavors, adding freshly chopped cilantro just before serving adds a burst of freshness that brightens the entire dish. You can also experiment with fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of fresh chives for a different herbal note.
7. Prepare Toppings Ahead of Time
To make serving quick and easy, prepare your toppings in advance. Toast tortilla strips, slice avocados, chop cilantro, and grate cheese while the soup is simmering. This way, everything is ready to go when it’s time to serve.
8. Store Toppings Separately
If you’re planning to store leftovers, keep the toppings like tortilla strips, avocado, and sour cream separate. This ensures that the toppings remain fresh and crunchy when you’re ready to reheat and serve the soup.
9. Double the Recipe for Meal Prep
This soup is incredibly freezer-friendly, so consider doubling the recipe if you want to have some ready for future meals. Just make sure to freeze it before adding the cream or coconut milk for best results.
10. Garnish Like a Pro
Presentation matters! After serving the soup, drizzle a tiny bit of heavy cream or coconut milk on top, then swirl it with a toothpick for a beautiful finishing touch. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and a few tortilla strips for a professional-looking dish.
By following these pro tips, you’ll make sure your soup turns out even better than you imagined. Now, let’s address some of the most commonly asked questions about this recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Curious about how to make this recipe work perfectly for your needs? Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about this Creamy Mexican-Inspired Tortilla Soup.
Q1: Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.
Q2: Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe dairy-free by substituting heavy cream with coconut milk. Full-fat coconut milk provides the creamiest texture, but light coconut milk works well if you prefer a lighter option.
Q3: Can I Use Chicken Broth Instead of Vegetable Broth?
Certainly! If you’re not sticking to a vegetarian or vegan diet, using chicken broth can add extra richness and flavor to the soup.
Q4: What’s the Best Way to Make This Soup Spicy?
To increase the heat level, keep the seeds in the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also sprinkle some hot sauce or red pepper flakes into the soup before serving for an extra kick.
Q5: How Can I Make This Soup Thicker?
For a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot. You can also add a small amount of cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to thicken the soup while simmering.
Q6: Can I Freeze This Soup After Adding Cream or Coconut Milk?
It’s best to freeze the soup before adding the cream or coconut milk, as freezing dairy can cause it to separate. When ready to enjoy, reheat the soup and stir in the cream or coconut milk just before serving.
Q7: What Can I Use Instead of Black Beans?
If you’re not a fan of black beans, you can use pinto beans, chickpeas, or even kidney beans as a substitute. Each type of bean will add its own unique texture and flavor.
Q8: Can I Make This Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! To make this soup in a slow cooker, add all ingredients except for the cream or coconut milk and lime juice. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream or coconut milk and lime juice during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Q9: How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. Add extra broth or coconut milk if the soup has thickened too much.
Q10: What Other Toppings Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Crumbled queso fresco, pickled jalapeños, chopped green onions, or roasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) can all add amazing texture and flavor to the soup.
By answering these common questions, you can now approach this recipe with confidence, knowing that you’ll get perfect results every time. It’s time to wrap things up and give you one last nudge to try this delicious soup.
Conclusion & Call to Action
There you have it — the ultimate recipe for a Creamy Mexican-Inspired Tortilla Soup that’s brimming with rich flavors, comforting textures, and incredible warmth. From its vibrant, smoky, and spicy base to its creamy finish, every spoonful offers a delightful experience. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Whether you’re serving it as a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this soup is guaranteed to impress. Don’t forget to top it with crispy tortilla strips, creamy avocado, and a fresh squeeze of lime juice for that perfect finishing touch.
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and see just how satisfying and flavorful it truly is. When you make it, be sure to come back and let me know how it turned out. And if you feel like sharing your delicious creation, snap a photo and tag me on social media. Your feedback and creativity always inspire me!
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, grab your favorite pot, and get ready to enjoy a big, comforting bowl of creamy, delicious goodness. Your taste buds are in for a treat!
PrintCreamy Mexican-Inspired Tortilla Soup – Easy & Flavorful Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Mexican-Inspired Tortilla Soup is a rich, comforting, and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Made with black beans, corn, tomatoes, and spices, it’s simmered to perfection with heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamy, irresistible texture. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the ultimate cozy meal to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
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Olive oil: 1 tbsp
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Medium onion: 1, chopped
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Red bell pepper: 1, diced
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Carrot: 1 medium, chopped
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Jalapeño: 1, seeded and diced (optional)
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Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
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Diced tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz, fire-roasted if possible)
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Black beans: 1 can (15 oz), drained & rinsed
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Corn kernels: 1 cup (fresh, frozen, or canned)
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Vegetable broth: 4 cups
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Heavy cream or coconut milk: 1/2 cup
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Ground cumin: 1 tsp
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Chili powder: 1/2 tsp
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Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
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Salt & pepper: To taste
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Juice of 1 lime: For freshness
Optional Toppings:
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Sliced avocado, tortilla strips, chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime wedges
Instructions
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Cook the Veggies: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, carrot, and jalapeño. Sauté until softened (5-7 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
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Add Ingredients: Add diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, vegetable broth, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
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Make It Creamy: Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk and let simmer for another 5 minutes. Add lime juice and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Serve & Garnish: Ladle soup into bowls and top with avocado, tortilla strips, cilantro, cheese, and sour cream if desired. Serve with lime wedges
Notes
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For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
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Adjust spice level by adding more jalapeño or chili powder.
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Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup, Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired