Name: Mexican Beef and Rice Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef; 1/3 cup chopped white onions; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 3 tablespoons taco seasoning; 2 quarts beef stock or beef broth; 2 cups frozen corn; 15.5 ounces black beans, rinsed and drained (1 can); 14.5 ounces petite diced tomatoes, drained (1 can); 1 cup tomato purée; 2 teaspoons lime juice; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 cup white rice or brown rice; 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 41 reviews

If you’re craving a hearty bowl of comfort that bursts with flavor and warmth, this Mexican Beef and Rice Soup Recipe is the answer you’ve been searching for. It is a vibrant, satisfying soup, loaded with tender ground beef, tender rice, sweet corn, and black beans, all swimming in a robust, spiced broth that’s just begging to be savored spoonful by spoonful. Imagine cozy evenings filled with the rich aroma of garlic and taco seasoning, brightened by fresh lime and cilantro. This recipe turns simple ingredients into a memorable meal that feels like a big, flavorful hug from the inside out.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows 12 ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. There is a block of red ground beef on a small brown cutting board in the top left. A dark glass bowl filled with deep brown beef stock sits at the top right. Nearby, a small glass bowl of orange-brown taco seasoning, a tiny glass bowl of light beige garlic paste, and a small glass bowl of white rice are visible. In the center, a white glass bowl holds chunky red diced tomatoes, and below it another white glass bowl contains smooth red tomato purée. Below and to the left, a white glass bowl is filled with yellow corn kernels, next to a small glass bowl of black beans. A tiny glass bowl of light pink salt sits near the center, and fresh green cilantro leaves lie in a small bunch toward the bottom center. Finally, a white glass bowl of finely chopped white onions is at the bottom right, accompanied by two lime wedges. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, from the savory ground beef that forms the base to the colorful vegetables that add texture and color. These pantry staples come together to create a truly balanced and unforgettable soup experience.

2 pounds ground beef: Choose a lean variety for the best texture and to keep the soup hearty but not greasy.
1/3 cup chopped white onions: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the soup’s savory foundation.
1 teaspoon minced garlic: Provides a fragrant punch that wakes up all the other flavors.
3 tablespoons taco seasoning: The magic spice mix that brings bold Mexican flair to the soup.
2 quarts beef stock or beef broth: The rich liquid that carries all the flavors and keeps the soup comforting and warming.
2 cups frozen corn: Adds a subtle sweetness and bright yellow pops of color.
15.5 ounces black beans, rinsed and drained: Adds creaminess and a protein boost, perfect for texture contrast.
14.5 ounces petite diced tomatoes, drained: Offers a juicy bite and a hint of acidity to balance the dish.
1 cup tomato purée: Deepens the tomato flavor, giving the broth a beautifully rich red hue.
2 teaspoons lime juice: Introduces a fresh, zesty brightness that lifts the whole soup.
2 teaspoons salt: Essential for rounding out the flavors and making everything pop.
1 cup white rice or brown rice: The comforting starch that soaks up the broth and ties the dish together.
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro: Added at the end for a burst of fresh herbaceous flavor and color.

How to Make Mexican Beef and Rice Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics

Start by heating your dutch oven or large soup pot over medium-high heat and add the ground beef, chopped onions, and minced garlic. Cook while breaking the beef apart with a spoon until it’s browned and the onions are soft and fragrant. This step builds a rich base for your soup. Be sure to drain off any excess fat to keep the broth from becoming greasy.

Step 2: Add Taco Seasoning

Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the browned beef mixture and stir well to coat every bit. This is what infuses the soup with those signature Mexican flavors, bringing warmth and spice that makes this soup sing.

Step 3: Combine Broth and Key Ingredients

Pour in the beef stock or broth and add the frozen corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato purée, lime juice, salt, and uncooked rice. Stir everything together to distribute the flavors and ingredients evenly throughout the pot. This hearty mix promises satisfying textures and vibrant taste in every bite.

Step 4: Simmer Until Rice is Tender

Bring your pot to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, until the rice becomes tender and has absorbed much of the soup’s liquid, giving you a perfect thick and flavorful consistency.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Cilantro

Once the rice is perfectly cooked, stir in freshly chopped cilantro. This final addition adds an herbal freshness and vivid color that brightens the entire dish, rounding out the hearty flavors beautifully.

How to Serve Mexican Beef and Rice Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with three main layers: a thick base of reddish-brown soup with ground meat, black beans, corn, rice, and small tomato pieces; topped with chopped green herbs evenly spread over the soup; and finished with a large dollop of white sour cream and bright orange shredded cheese piled on one side. A silver spoon is dipped into the soup near the cheese. Yellow corn tortilla chips surround the bowl on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhancing your soup with garnishes takes it from great to unforgettable. Sprinkle some shredded cheese, add a dollop of sour cream, and don’t forget an extra wedge of lime to squeeze on top right before eating. Fresh cilantro leaves and crunchy tortilla chips on the side give irresistible texture contrasts.

Side Dishes

For a truly satisfying meal, serve this soup alongside warm corn tortillas or crusty bread that soaks up every last drop. A crisp, fresh salad or a side of guacamole also complements the soup’s richness with cool and creamy notes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls or colorful Mexican-style bowls to amp up the visual appeal. You can also layer it in a clear glass mug for casual entertaining, showcasing all those beautiful ingredients through the glass.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Mexican Beef and Rice Soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Store your soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just keep in mind the rice may thicken the soup, so add a splash of broth or water when reheating if needed.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully for longer storage. Transfer cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. When thawed, the rice might be softer, but the soup will still taste wonderful and comforting.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup feels too thick, add a bit of broth or water to loosen it up. You can also reheat single portions in the microwave, covered, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this Mexican Beef and Rice Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Brown rice is a great alternative if you want a nuttier flavor and a bit more fiber. Just be sure to increase the simmering time slightly since brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.

Is there a vegetarian version of this Mexican Beef and Rice Soup Recipe?

Yes! Simply swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or extra beans and vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of beef stock. The taco seasoning and fresh ingredients still bring all the delicious Mexican flavors.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Definitely! Brown the beef on the stovetop first, then add all the ingredients (except cilantro) to your slow cooker, cooking on low for 3-4 hours. For Instant Pot, combine everything in the pot and pressure cook for about 8 minutes, then natural release for 8 minutes.

How can I adjust the spice level in this soup?

If you prefer it milder, reduce the amount of taco seasoning or choose a mild blend. To kick up the heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper while cooking.

What toppings work best with this soup?

Toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, diced onions, and crunchy tortilla strips all bring wonderful textures and flavor contrasts. Plus, a squeeze of fresh lime adds the perfect finishing touch.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Beef and Rice Soup Recipe is a treasure for anyone who loves vibrant flavors and comforting meals. It’s the kind of soup that warms your soul and satisfies your appetite, perfect for any day of the year. Gather your ingredients, put on your favorite apron, and enjoy making this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a regular in your kitchen and a favorite with everyone around your table.

Mexican Beef and Rice Soup Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make Mexican Beef and Rice Soup Recipe