Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a spoon. Remove any excess grease, if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot with the cooked beef. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Spices and Tomato Paste
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and enhance their flavors. Add the tomato paste and stir until evenly combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Add Beans, Corn, and Rice
Stir in the black beans, frozen corn, and cooked rice. Simmer for an additional 5–7 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 6: Finish with Lime Juice
Remove the soup from heat and stir in the lime juice for a bright, zesty finish. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with tortilla chips, shredded cheese, or sour cream, if desired.