Craving that vibrant, flavorful tortilla soup you get at Chevy's? Forget driving across town – this recipe brings the deliciousness right to your kitchen! This homemade version captures all the warmth and spice of the restaurant favorite, but with the added bonus of knowing exactly what's going into your delicious dish. It's a perfect weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or even a stunning appetizer for your next gathering. This recipe is quick, easy, and utterly delicious – perfect for anyone looking for easy recipes or healthy meal ideas.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Flavor Bombs
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a great option for both beginner and experienced cooks.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Tortilla chips, for serving
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions: Let's Get Cooking!
This recipe is designed for simplicity and speed, making it an ideal choice for quick dinner ideas.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and bell pepper and cook for another 3 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Build the Flavor Base: Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Simmer to Perfection: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
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Serve it Up: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with avocado, shredded cheese, tortilla chips, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Tips and Tricks for Tortilla Soup Success
- Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you like things really spicy, add a pinch of chipotle powder for a smoky heat.
- Make it Hearty: Add cooked chicken, shredded beef, or even some leftover roasted vegetables for a heartier soup.
- Fresh is Best: Using fresh ingredients whenever possible will elevate the flavor of your soup.
- Garnish Generously: Don't skimp on the toppings! The avocado, cheese, and cilantro add so much texture and flavor.
- Leftovers are a Blessing: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations: Beyond the Basics
- Vegetarian Tortilla Soup: Omit the chicken broth and replace it with vegetable broth. You can also add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
- Creamy Tortilla Soup: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema before serving for extra richness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
This Chevy's copycat tortilla soup is a delicious and easy-to-make recipe perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying homemade meal! It’s a true testament to delicious dishes made with simple, homemade cooking. Let us know in the comments how yours turned out!