Southwest Soup
A hearty, cheesy Southwest soup packed with beans, corn, tomatoes, and spices, perfect for a comforting meal that appeals to fans of bold flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and onion in a large pot or skillet.
- Add the undrained cans of corn, Ro-Tel, pinto beans, black-eyed peas, and diced tomatoes to the cooked meat and onion.
- Mix everything well and heat on the stove or in a crock-pot until hot.
- Right before serving, add the Velveeta cheese and cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. If you're out of Velveeta, you can substitute with any creamy cheese, like queso blanco or a blend of cheddar and cream cheese. To make it vegetarian, replace the hamburger with black beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of meat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Southwest Soup with a side of crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping. You can also top each bowl with shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro for added flavor. This soup pairs beautifully with Baked Mexican Steak for a satisfying meal or can be enjoyed alongside your favorite Mexican recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to cover it to prevent splatters and stir halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southwest Soup contains roughly 509 calories, with 14g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (60% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 982mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup can be made in advance and actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just follow the recipe and store it in the refrigerator after it cools. Reheat before serving, and consider adding a splash of broth to loosen it up if it thickens.
Is there a way to make this soup healthier?
Absolutely! You can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger to reduce fat content. Additionally, using low-fat cheese options and adding more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can enhance the nutritional profile without sacrificing flavor.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).