Discover The Ultimate Tortilla Soup Recipe

Okay, friends, let’s talk soup. Not just any soup, though. What is the ultimate tortilla soup recipe? What is the kind of soup that warms you from the inside out, makes your taste buds sing, and is surprisingly good for you? What are some easy recipes to whip up on a busy weeknight? What is the cozier cousin of chili? It’s got all the comfort, but with a little extra flair, … and if you like it, you’re going to love it. My grandma used to make a version of this, and the aroma alone takes me right back to her kitchen. What is this version?

What is Tortilla Soup?

What is tortilla soup? What is a Mexican soup? Spiced with chili peppers and other seasonings. What makes this dish unique is the addition of crispy tortilla strips (hence the name! ). What is the best kind of food hug? Is it comforting, it’s satisfying, and incredibly customizable? Can you add chicken, beans, avocado, cheese… basically, anything your heart desires? What is the kind of soup that can be a light lunch or dinner, depending on what you throw in. Why is it a staple in so many homes?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Where do I start? What are some good reasons to love Tortilla soup?

• Flavor Explosion:We’re talking layers and layers of flavor here. From the chipotle peppers to the bright lime juice, every bite is a party in your mouth. The combination of spices is just perfect – not too spicy, but with a lovely warming kick.
• Seriously Easy: What isWhat are some of the best soup recipes? Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, and the steps are straightforward. You really can’t mess this up! I’ve made this countless times on busy weeknights, and it’s always a winner.
• Budget FriendlyWe’re using ingredients that are easy to find and won’t break the bank. Can you use leftover rotisserie chicken? How can I make a little soup?
• Totally CustomizWhere does the fun begin? How can I add or subtract ingredients based on what I have on hand? What is the best way to add chipotle peppers to a dish? What are some ways to add veggies to a meal?

What I love about this recipe is that it’s a crowd-pleaser. My family loves it, even my picky eaters! What are some of the best ways to make chicken noodle soup? I’ve tried other tortilla soup recipes, but this one, with its perfect balance of flavors and textures, is a must try. What are some of my favorite textures?

How do you make Tortilla Soup?

Quick Overview

What is the best tortilla soup recipe? First, we’ll sauté some veggies to build a flavor base. What should I do with the broth, tomatoes, and spices? While that’s happening, we’ll get our toppings ready – crispy tortilla strips, creamy avocado, tangy sauce. What is the hardest part of waiting for it to simmer? Is it a simple, straightforward process that delivers incredible flavor every single time? How easy is it to make a delicious tortilla soup at home?

What are the ingredients of

For the Soup:

Onion and Garlic: HowWhat is the foundation of good soup? I like to use yellow onion for its mild flavor, but you can also use white onion or even shallots. Is garlic powder a good substitute for fresh garlic?

Bell Pepper:Adds a touch of sweetness and color. I usually use a red bell pepper, but you can use any color you like. Green bell peppers have a slightly bitter flavor, so keep that in mind.

Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: What areWhat are some of the best secret weapon spices? You can find them in the Hispanic aisle of most grocery stores. Start with one or two peppers and add more to taste, depending on your spice preference. I always mince mine really finely so they distribute evenly throughout the soup.

Diced tomatoes:What are some good canned tomatoes to use in this recipe? I like to use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor, but I also like regular dice sliced tomatoes. Will work just fine. If you have fresh tomatoes on hand, you can use them too – just make sure to peel and chop them.

Chicken Broth:What is the best chicken broth to use? Can you use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version? Low-sodium broth is always a good idea so you can control the saltiness of the soup.

Shredded Chicken:Cooked and shredded chicken adds protein and heartiness to the soup. Can you cook your own chicken? I often poach chicken breasts in chicken broth for a super flavorful and tender result.

Black Beans:Canning black beans, rinsed and drained add texture and fiber. Can you use kidney beans or pinto beans if you prefer? If you’re using dried beans, make sure to soak them overnight and cook them until they’ve risen. Before adding them to the soup, they should be rinsed.

Spices:What makes this soup so good? Adjust the amounts to your liking. I sometimes add a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra smoky touch.

For the Toppings:

Tortilla StripWhat are some good tortilla strips? Can you buy pre-made tortilla strips, but I prefer to make my own by cutting corn tortillas into strips? Is it possible to bake thin strips of bacon until golden brown and crispy? Is it easy to make these and they taste better?

Avocado:What are some of the best avocado recipes? Make sure to use a ripe avocado that is soft but not mushy.

Lime Wedges:Fresh lime juice adds a touch of acidity.

Cilantro:Fresh cilantro adds color and flavor. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can use parsley instead.

Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: What are some examples?Adds a tangy creaminess. I love Greek yogurt and sour cream. It’s healthier for you than regular yogurt. I also like a lot of other things.

Shredded cheese:What are some good options for cheese? Cheddar, Monterey Jack cheese, or a Mexican blend are all great options.

What are the steps to

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Remove from heat and set aside. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. What is the best way to cook garlic?

Step 2: Add the Spices and Chipotle Peppers

Stir in the cumin, oregano, and chipotle peppers. Mix well. Cook for another minute until fragrant. This step really blooms the spices and brings out their flavor. I always give it a good stir to make sure everything is evenly coated.

Step 3: Add the Remaining Soup Ingredients

What is the best way to serve chicken broth with diced tomatoes? Add the shredded chicken, black beans, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 15-20 minutes, or longer for a more intense flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. I often let it simmer for an hour or two if I have the time.

Step 5: Prepare the Tortilla Strips

While the soup is simmering, prepare the tortilla strips. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut corn tortillas into thin strips and toss them with a little olive oil and salt. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn easily!

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with tortilla strips, avocado, lime wedges, cilantro, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and shredded cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

What to Serve It With

This **tortilla soup recipe** is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with some tasty sides! Here are a few of my favorite pairings:

For a Light Lunch: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup perfectly.

For a Hearty Dinner: Cornbread or crusty bread for dipping. There’s nothing quite like soaking up all that delicious broth with a piece of warm bread!

For a Mexican Fiesta: Serve it alongside tacos, enchiladas, or quesadillas. It’s the perfect way to create a complete and satisfying Mexican-inspired meal.

For a Cozy Night In: A glass of red wine or a margarita. The warmth of the wine or the tanginess of the margarita pairs perfectly with the spicy and savory flavors of the soup.

My family loves to have this with a side of Mexican rice. It’s a simple addition that makes the meal feel a little more complete. And don’t forget the hot sauce for those who like a little extra kick!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Tortilla Soup

Want to take your **ultimate tortilla soup recipe** to the next level? Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years:

• Don’t Skip the Sauté: Sautéing the vegetables at the beginning is crucial for building a flavorful base. It’s worth taking the time to soften the onions and bell peppers and bloom the spices.
• Use Good Quality Broth: The broth is the foundation of the soup, so use the best quality you can find. Homemade broth is always the best, but store-bought broth works just fine too.
• Add a Touch of Acidity: A squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end brightens up the flavors and adds a touch of acidity. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.
• Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers to your liking. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with just one pepper and add more to taste. You can also remove the seeds from the peppers to reduce the heat.
• Make Your Own Tortilla Strips: Homemade tortilla strips are so much better than store-bought. They’re easy to make and add a delicious crispy texture to the soup.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: If you’re cooking your own chicken, be careful not to overcook it. Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Poaching the chicken breasts in chicken broth is a great way to ensure they stay tender and juicy.
• Get Creative with the Toppings: The toppings are where you can really customize the soup to your liking. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings like avocado, lime wedges, cilantro, sour cream, cheese, and hot sauce.

One time, I accidentally added too much chipotle pepper and it was way too spicy for my kids. Now, I always taste the soup before adding the chicken and beans, just to make sure the spice level is right. It’s a small adjustment that makes a big difference!

Storing and Reheating Tips

This **ultimate tortilla soup recipe** is even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Storing:

• Let the soup cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• The soup will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating:

• Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• You can also reheat the soup in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it.
• If the soup is frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

I usually don’t add the toppings until right before serving, especially if I know I’ll have leftovers. This helps keep the tortilla strips crispy and the avocado from browning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my **ultimate tortilla soup recipe**! It’s a flavor-packed, easy-to-make, and totally customizable soup that is sure to become a family favorite. I truly believe this is one of those recipes that’s worth making again and again. It’s perfect for a cozy night in, a casual get-together, or even a potluck. And if you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other soup recipes – I have a creamy tomato soup that’s just as comforting! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you try any fun variations, be sure to share them with me! Happy cooking!

Discover The Ultimate Tortilla Soup Recipe

This ultimate tortilla soup is a comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for a cozy dinner. Loaded with bold spices, chicken, and crispy tortilla strips, it's a family favorite that can be ready in under an hour.

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Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes minutes

Servings: 6

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 2 tbsp olive oil
• ▢ 1 medium onion chopped
• ▢ 3 cloves garlic minced
• ▢ 6 cups chicken broth low sodium
• ▢ 14.5 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies
• ▢ 1 tsp cumin ground
• ▢ 1 tsp chili powder
• ▢ 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
• ▢ 1 cup corn kernels frozen or canned
• ▢ 1 cup black beans drained and rinsed
• ▢ 1 large lime juice
• ▢ 1 cup tortilla strips for garnish
• ▢ 0.25 cup cilantro chopped, for garnish
• ▢ 0.5 cup cheddar cheese shredded, for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
• Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
• Stir in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, and chili powder. Bring to a simmer.
• Add the shredded chicken, corn, and black beans. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
• Stir in lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Serve hot, garnished with tortilla strips, chopped cilantro, and shredded cheddar cheese.

Notes

Adjust the level of heat by adding more or less chili powder according to your taste. For a thicker soup, add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste along with the broth.