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Decadent Lentil Tortilla Soup

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This rich and creamy lentil tortilla soup is loaded with beans, veggies, Tex-Mex spices, and a hint of cream cheese—perfect for a comforting, protein-packed meal any night of the week.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 bowls
  • Category: Dinner / Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Tex-Mex / Fusion
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Beans & Lentils:

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 oz) red beans, drained and rinsed

¾ cup dried red lentils, rinsed

Vegetables:

1 medium onion, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped

1 cup corn (canned or frozen)

Pantry & Liquids:

3½ cups vegetable broth

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

¾ cup salsa

Spices & Seasonings:

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon cumin

¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Oil & Dairy:

1 teaspoon olive oil

½ cup light cream cheese

Garnishes (Optional):

Tortilla chips

Fresh cilantro

Lime wedges

Shredded cheese

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics:
In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño. Sauté for 5 minutes, or until softened.

2. Add Spices:
Stir in garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Build the Base:
Add vegetable broth, tomato sauce, salsa, black beans, red beans, lentils, and corn. Stir well to combine.

4. Simmer:
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, until lentils are tender.

5. Make It Creamy:
Stir in the light cream cheese until fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.

6. Serve:
Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with tortilla chips, cilantro, lime wedges, and/or shredded cheese.

Notes

Make It Vegan: Use dairy-free cream cheese or coconut cream.

Extra Protein: Add cooked shredded chicken or turkey.

Chunky or Smooth: Blend a portion for a creamy texture or leave chunky for heartiness.

Spice Control: Adjust jalapeño and cayenne to suit your heat preference.