There’s something so comforting about a big pot of chili simmering away on the stove. The scent of spices fills the kitchen, little hands sneak tortilla chips for “taste-testing,” and before you know it—dinner becomes an event.
This Chili Soup is one of those recipes I grew up with and keep coming back to. It’s simple, hearty, and endlessly customizable. It’s the kind of meal that warms you on a cold night but also feeds a crowd on game day. And best of all? It comes together with pantry staples, so you can whip it up without a special grocery run.
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Why You’ll Love This Easy Chili Soup
- Family-Friendly – Mild enough for kids but can easily be spiced up.
- Hearty & Filling – Packed with beans, corn, beef, and flavor.
- Easy to Make – Just brown the meat, dump everything in, and let it simmer.
- Feeds a Crowd – Makes a big batch, perfect for potlucks or leftovers.
- Customizable – Works with ground turkey, beef, or even chicken.
If you’re looking for a simple chili recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this one’s for you.
Chili Soup Ingredients (What You’ll Need)
Here’s a breakdown of what makes this hearty chili soup both simple and delicious:
- Ground beef (or turkey) – Classic, hearty protein base.
- Corn – Adds sweetness and texture.
- Kidney beans – A chili classic.
- Pinto beans – Creamy and filling.
- Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies) – Brings a subtle kick.
- Tomato paste – Deepens the flavor and thickens the chili.
- Diced tomatoes – Adds freshness and balance.
- Taco seasoning – A shortcut for bold, savory spices.
- Dry ranch dressing mix – The secret ingredient that makes this chili unforgettable.
- Beef broth – Creates a soup-like consistency while keeping it rich.
Toppings (Optional but Highly Recommended)
- Fritos (for crunch)
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
Instructions
- Step 1: Brown the meat until fully cooked.
- Step 2: Combine all remaining ingredients and add browned meat.
- Step 3: Simmer for 1 hour in a large pot so flavors can meld together OR leave in Crock Pot to sit on low for 4 hours.
- Step 4: Serve warm and top with desired toppings.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chili Soup
- Brown the Meat – In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat until fully browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Combine Ingredients – While the meat is browning, add all remaining ingredients (beans, corn, tomatoes, broth, and seasonings) to a large pot.
- Add the Meat – Stir the browned meat into the pot with the other ingredients.
- Simmer Low & Slow – Cover and let it simmer on low heat for 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Serve & Top – Ladle into bowls and top with your favorites: shredded cheese, sour cream, and crunchy Fritos.
Variations and Substitutions
- Make it Spicy – Add extra Rotel or stir in cayenne pepper.
- Go Lean – Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Add Veggies – Bell peppers, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes fit right in.
- Slow Cooker Version – Brown the meat first, then add everything into your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 hours.
- Vegetarian Chili Soup – Skip the meat and add an extra can of beans or lentils.
How to Serve Chili Soup
This recipe is endlessly versatile when it comes to serving. Some of my family’s favorites include:
- With cornbread on the side.
- Over baked potatoes for a filling twist.
- As a topping for nachos (yes, really!).
- With tortilla chips or Fritos for scooping.
Storage and Freezing
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in single-serve portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop.
- Meal Prep Tip: This chili reheats wonderfully, making it ideal for quick lunches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen overnight.
What if I don’t have ranch dressing mix?
You can skip it, but it adds a creamy, tangy depth that really makes the chili shine.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely—just use a larger pot. It’s a great make-ahead option for parties or family gatherings.
What’s the difference between chili and chili soup?
Traditional chili is thick and stew-like, while chili soup has a brothier consistency, making it perfect for serving in big bowls with lots of toppings.
Why This Chili Soup Recipe Works
This isn’t just another chili recipe—it’s one that balances convenience with big flavor. Using taco seasoning and ranch dressing mix eliminates the guesswork, while the combo of beans, corn, and tomatoes makes it hearty without being heavy. The beef broth transforms it from standard chili into a cozy, flavorful soup that’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough for Sunday dinner.
Final Thoughts
When life gets busy, this easy chili soup recipe is my go-to. It’s budget-friendly, adaptable, and guaranteed to bring everyone to the table. Whether you’re feeding your family on a weeknight or hosting friends on game day, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll make again and again.
So grab your biggest pot, set it to simmer, and get ready for the coziest bowl of chili soup you’ve ever had.
Hearty Chili Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown the meat in a large pot over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
- While the meat is browning, add the rest of the ingredients into a big pot (corn drained, beans drained, Rotel, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, ranch mix, and beef broth). Stir to combine.
- Add the browned meat into the pot and stir everything together.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- CROCK POT METHOD: Add browned meat and remaining ingredients to crock pot set to low for 4 hours.
- Serve hot with toppings like Fritos, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy!
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