This Ranch Taco Soup is a fun and hearty dish that brings all the Tex-Mex flavors to your table. With ground beef, beans, and a zesty ranch seasoning, it’s a party in a bowl!
Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a quick meal! I love to top mine with cheese and crushed tortilla chips for that extra crunch. You’ll want seconds, trust me! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use lean ground beef, but you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option. Both are great for reducing calories while still packing the flavor!
Beans: Black beans add a nice texture and protein boost. If you’re not a fan, feel free to use pinto beans or kidney beans instead. Canned or cooked from scratch, it’s all good!
Corn: Canned corn is super convenient! You could also use frozen corn – just toss it in frozen, and it will cook perfectly in the soup.
Ranch & Taco Seasoning: Packaged seasonings make things easy, but I like to mix my own spices sometimes. Try adding chili powder, cumin, and onion powder for a homemade twist!
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is my go-to for garnishing. If you’re dairy-free, avocado slices or vegan cheese shreds can be a lovely alternative.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor in Your Soup?
To make the flavors in your Ranch Taco Soup shine, start by browning your ground beef well. Don’t rush this step! The caramelization from browning adds a depth of flavor to the dish.
- Don’t skip the onion and garlic! Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant; this step really builds the base flavor.
- Let your soup simmer! Allowing time for the ingredients to meld makes a big difference. I often let it simmer longer; the flavors just get better!
- Lastly, taste-test! Adjust the seasoning at the end. A little extra salt or spice can elevate your soup tremendously.
Ranch Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 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 with green chilies (Rotel-style)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning mix
- 4 cups beef broth
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients and around 30-40 minutes to cook the soup. In total, you’re looking at about 50 minutes to enjoy a delicious, hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s fully browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s cooked, drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Now, toss the diced onions and minced garlic into the pot with the beef. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, until the onions are soft and translucent. This step is key for infusing flavor!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Add in the black beans, corn, and both cans of diced tomatoes (the ones with green chilies and the regular ones). Then, mix in the ranch seasoning and taco seasoning. Stir everything together until it’s well combined.
4. Add the Broth:
Pour in the beef broth and give it a good stir. Turn the heat up to medium-high and bring the soup to a simmer. This will help all those flavors blend nicely!
5. Let It Simmer:
Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low. Allow the soup to simmer for about 20-30 minutes. This is the perfect time for all those delicious flavors to meld together.
6. Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, give your soup a taste. If you want more flavor, feel free to add a pinch of salt or some extra seasonings based on your preference.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
It’s time to enjoy your soup! Serve it hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh chopped cilantro. Don’t forget the tortilla chips on the side for that perfect crunch!
This hearty and flavorful Ranch Taco Soup is sure to be a hit! Perfect for sharing with family and friends on a cozy night in!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to ground beef that will work perfectly in this recipe. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll still enjoy a delicious soup!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use more beans and veggies. Adding ingredients like lentils or mushrooms can add heartiness to the soup without sacrificing flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave it or warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
