1-First Step: Begin with the protein. In a large pot over medium heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef or turkey for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon until it’s no longer pink. This step builds the flavor base and allows you to drain any excess fat for a lighter version, making it easy for diet-conscious folks.

2-Second Step: Add the aromatics and spices. Once the meat is browned, stir in 4 cloves of minced garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder) and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, mix in 2 teaspoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon oregano, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. For a vegetarian twist, you can skip the meat here and use extra beans instead.

3-Third Step: Incorporate the canned goods. Pour in the 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes with their juice, the 4-ounce can of diced green chilies, the 15-ounce can of kidney beans (rinsed and drained), the 15-ounce can of black beans (rinsed and drained), and the 17-ounce can of corn (drained). Stir everything together to combine the flavors, which should take about 2 minutes on medium heat.

4-Fourth Step: Add the liquid and simmer. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld, and you can adjust the heat based on your preference lower for kids or seniors, higher for spice lovers.

5-Fifth Step: Taste and adjust. After simmering, give the soup a taste and add more spices if needed, like an extra pinch of cumin for deeper flavor. For healthier options, incorporate more veggies at this stage, such as diced bell peppers, to boost nutrition without altering the core recipe.

6-Sixth Step: Serve it up. Remove the pot from heat and ladle the soup into bowls. Top with optional additions like tortilla chips or shredded cheese. This step takes just a minute and makes the meal fun and customizable for everyone at the table. For more hearty ideas, try our baked Mexican mac and cheese recipe for a complementary side.