Easy Tortilla Soup Recipe

Bowl of tortilla soup with a spoon, served with lime wedge

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A Simple Mexican Soup That Eats Like a Meal

This simple tortilla soup can warm your family’s bodies and souls after a long day of work or school. Rich in protein, fiber and vegetables, it’s hearty and healthy enough to eat as a main course, and it takes only 10 minutes to prep the ingredients.

Make a batch for a last-minute dinner—it takes only 30 minutes in all—or double the recipe and freeze half to store in airtight containers for a later meal. If your kids enjoy helping in the kitchen, allow them to choose the garnishes, from cilantro sprigs and avocado slices to plain or grilled and seasoned tortilla strips plus a dollop of sour cream.

Total Time: 30 minutes | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Serves: 4

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive or vegetable oil
  • ½ white or yellow onion, diced
  • 4 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 (10-ounce) can enchilada sauce
  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15.5-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (about half of a lime)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • avocado for garnish, if desired
  • tortilla strips for garnish, if desired
  • sour cream for garnish, if desired

Directions:

  1. In a large saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion, sauteing it for 2 to 3 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic, and continue sauteing for another minute or two.
  4. Carefully add the broth, enchilada sauce, crushed tomatoes, beans, corn, chili powder and pepper. Stir to combine.
  5. Once the mixture begins to simmer, turn the heat down to low, letting it cook for 10 minutes.
  6. Stir in the shredded chicken, lime juice and chopped cilantro, then remove the pan from the heat.
  7. Serve the soup warm and garnished with fresh cilantro sprigs, avocado slices, tortilla strips and a touch of sour cream, as desired.