This Ranch Taco Soup is a cozy dish full of flavor! Packed with beans, corn, and juicy tomatoes, it’s like a fiesta in a bowl. Plus, it’s super easy to make!
What I love most is how it warms you up on chilly days. Serve it with tortilla chips or a dollop of sour cream, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to make everyone smile! 🌮😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives the soup its hearty base. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken work well too. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh or seitan.
Beans: Black beans add protein and fiber. You can substitute with kidney beans or pinto beans if you prefer. Canned beans make it easy, but dried beans work too; just soak and cook them beforehand.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: These add freshness and acidity. If you have fresh tomatoes on hand, feel free to chop and use them. Fire-roasted tomatoes give a nice smoky flavor too!
Ranch and Taco Seasoning: These packets are super convenient but you can make your own! Mix herbs like dill, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin for ranch flavor. For taco seasoning, use chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of oregano.
How Can I Make Sure My Soup Has Amazing Flavor?
Flavor is key in any soup, and this recipe is all about building layers. Here’s how to do it:
- After browning the meat, make sure to sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent. This step releases all their natural sweetness.
- To toast the seasoning, cook it briefly with the onions. This activates the spices, enhancing their flavor.
- Let the soup simmer uncovered. This develops the flavors as it reduces slightly. Taste and adjust salt or spice levels towards the end!
Ranch Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can tomato sauce
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1 tsp chili powder (optional for extra spice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For Garnishing:
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped fresh cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Ranch Taco Soup will take about 10 minutes for prep and around 30 minutes to cook. In just under an hour, you’ll have a deliciously hearty meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, then add the ground beef. Cook it thoroughly until it’s no longer pink, stirring occasionally. Once done, drain any excess fat to keep it lean and tasty.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, just until the onion is soft and translucent—this helps release all those yummy flavors!
3. Add Seasonings:
Now, stir in the ranch seasoning mix, taco seasoning mix, chili powder (if you like it spicy), and season with salt and pepper. Cook this mixture for another 1-2 minutes to toast the spices a bit—it really enhances the flavor!
4. Mix in the Good Stuff:
Next, add in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with all their juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine, making sure all the ingredients mingle.
5. Let It Simmer:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes. This is the time for the flavors to meld beautifully. Feel free to taste and adjust the seasoning if needed!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh cilantro. Enjoy it with crunchy tortilla chips or warm bread for a complete meal. Enjoy every spoonful!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that will still provide plenty of flavor. Just be sure to drain any excess fat after cooking, just like with beef.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, swap the ground beef for a meat substitute like lentils, beans, or chopped vegetables. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delightful veggie version.
Can I Prepare This Soup in Advance?
Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you want to reheat it, do so on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until fully heated through.