Creamy White Bean Enchilada Soup

Creamy White Bean Enchilada Soup is the perfect dish for any occasion. This rich and delightful soup combines the comfort of creamy flavors with the wholesome goodness of white beans, green chiles, and corn. It’s not just an easy weeknight dinner; it also works beautifully for meal prep or cozy gatherings. In just 30 minutes, you can serve a bowl of warmth that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total cook time of just 30 minutes, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze extras for those days when cooking feels like a chore.
• Vegetarian Delight: This soup is packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for vegetarians or anyone looking to eat healthier.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of green chiles and cumin adds depth and warmth to every spoonful.
• Customizable Options: Easily swap ingredients based on what you have or your dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential tools you’ll need to make Creamy White Bean Enchilada Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large soup pot: Ideal for even cooking and simmering, allowing flavors to meld perfectly.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring everything gets well combined.

Ingredients

Creamy White Bean Enchilada Soup with green chiles and corn is the ultimate 30 minute vegetarian soup. Freezer-friendly and great for meal prep or easy weeknight dinner.

For the Base

• 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped (sub bell pepper color of choice)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced

For Seasoning

• 1 Tbsp. ground cumin
• 1 1/4 tsp. kosher salt
• 1 tsp. chili powder
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper

For Creaminess

• 3 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
• 3 cups vegetable broth (sub chicken broth)
• 2 cups whole-milk (sub cashew milk if making vegan/dairy free)

For Protein & Texture

• 2 (15-oz.) cans navy beans (small white beans), rinsed and drained (sub Great Northern or cannellini beans)
• 2 (4-oz.) cans chopped green chiles
• 1 cup fresh or frozen/thawed corn

For Serving

• 1/2 cup plain whole-milk Greek yogurt (sub sour cream)
• Optional garnishes: fresh cilantro, diced avocado, tortilla chips

How to Make Creamy White Bean Enchilada Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat.
1. Add onion and bell pepper; cook for 6 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper; cook for an additional 2 minutes until aromatic.

Step 2: Add Flour and Liquids

Sprinkle flour over the onion mixture and stir to combine.
1. Cook for 2 full minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.
2. Whisk in vegetable broth and milk until smooth.
3. Use a wooden spoon to release any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 3: Combine Main Ingredients

Add green chiles, white beans, and corn to the pot.
1. Increase heat to medium-high.
2. Once soup reaches a gentle boil, reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Incorporate Yogurt

In a bowl, place yogurt and add 1/2 cup of hot soup; mix well.
1. Pour yogurt mixture back into the soup—this process is known as tempering.
2. Give the soup a final stir before serving.

Ladle into bowls, adding an extra dollop of yogurt or sour cream if desired. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or tortilla chips as options! Enjoy your delicious Creamy White Bean Enchilada Soup!

How to Serve Creamy White Bean Enchilada Soup

Serving Creamy White Bean Enchilada Soup is a delightful experience. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it pairs well with various toppings and sides that enhance its deliciousness.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Chopped fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and freshness.
• Green Onions: Sliced green onions provide a mild onion taste and vibrant color.

Include Creamy Toppings

• Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds extra creaminess and a tangy flavor.
• Sour Cream: Similar to yogurt, sour cream offers a rich texture and cooling effect.

Serve with Crunchy Elements

• Tortilla Chips: Crushed tortilla chips on top add a satisfying crunch to each spoonful.
• Avocado: Diced avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats, enhancing the soup’s richness.

Pair with Fresh Vegetables

• Radishes: Thinly sliced radishes can provide a crunchy contrast and slight pepperiness.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens the soup with acidity.

How to Perfect Creamy White Bean Enchilada Soup

Perfecting your Creamy White Bean Enchilada Soup involves a few simple tips. These suggestions will help you elevate the dish even further.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making your soup more vibrant.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; adding more cumin or chili powder can bring out deeper flavors.
• Experiment with Broth Options: Using homemade vegetable broth can improve the overall taste compared to store-bought versions.
• Add More Beans: Adding an extra can of beans increases protein content and makes the soup heartier.
• Blend for Smoothness: For a silkier texture, blend half of the soup before mixing it back in.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t be shy with garnishes; they add visual appeal and extra flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy White Bean Enchilada Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy White Bean Enchilada Soup can create a complete meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the savory flavors of the soup nicely.
2. Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup.
3. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole pairs well with tortilla chips, enhancing both textures.
4. Spanish Rice: Flavored rice adds another layer of taste while serving as a filling side dish.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Roasted stuffed peppers can be a hearty complement, filled with grains or beans.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide additional nutrients and flavors that work beautifully together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy White Bean Enchilada Soup can be a breeze, but it’s easy to make a few common missteps. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Vegetables: If you cook the onion and bell pepper too long, they can become mushy. Sauté them just until softened for the best texture.
• Skipping the Tempering Process: Adding yogurt directly into hot soup can cause it to curdle. Always temper the yogurt by mixing it with a bit of the hot soup first.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your soup greatly depends on the quality of your ingredients. Always opt for fresh vegetables and good-quality broth.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting as you go can lead to an unseasoned dish. Adjust seasonings according to your preference before serving.
• Not Letting It Simmer Enough: Skipping the simmering step can lead to a watery soup. Allow it to simmer for at least 15 minutes for richer flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for about 3–4 days.

Freezing Creamy White Bean Enchilada Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy White Bean Enchilada Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through (about 5–10 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Creamy White Bean Enchilada Soup vegetarian?

This recipe uses vegetable broth and beans without any meat products, making it fully vegetarian-friendly.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes! Substitute whole milk with cashew milk and Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt or omit it altogether for a vegan version.

How do I enhance the flavor of Creamy White Bean Enchilada Soup?

Adding spices like smoked paprika or extra chili powder can give your soup an additional kick.

Can I use other beans in this recipe?

Absolutely! Great Northern or cannellini beans work well if navy beans are unavailable.

How can I customize my Creamy White Bean Enchilada Soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or top with garnishes such as diced avocado and tortilla chips.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy White Bean Enchilada Soup is not only quick and easy but also highly customizable. You can adjust spices and toppings based on your preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and enjoy a warm bowl of comfort!