Taco soup is a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful meal perfect for a busy weeknight. This recipe elevates the classic with the creamy tang of ranch dressing, adding a surprising depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more. Forget bland, boring soup – this is a fiesta in a bowl!
What Makes This Taco Soup Recipe Unique?
Many taco soup recipes rely solely on the traditional taco seasoning blend. This recipe, however, introduces a secret ingredient: ranch dressing mix! The creamy, herbaceous notes of the ranch perfectly complement the bold spices of the taco seasoning, creating a richer, more complex flavor profile. This isn't just a simple addition; it's a game-changer.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
- Tortilla chips, sour cream, avocado, and chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Taco Soup Perfection
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), kidney beans, black beans, Rotel (undrained), taco seasoning, ranch seasoning mix, beef broth, and water.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 15 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheese, tortilla chips, sour cream, avocado, and cilantro, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other beans like pinto beans, or even a mix of beans. The flavor will vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
What if I don't have ranch seasoning mix?
While the ranch seasoning mix adds a unique depth of flavor, you can omit it if needed. The soup will still be tasty, but it might lack the creamy tang. You could try substituting with a tablespoon or two of sour cream or a dollop of mayonnaise for a similar creaminess.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef as instructed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch or two of cayenne pepper, or a diced jalapeño pepper to the soup while it simmers. You can also use a spicier variety of Rotel.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips for Taco Soup Success:
- Don't overcook the beef: Overcooked beef can become dry and tough.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Add more taco seasoning or ranch seasoning to your liking.
- Garnish generously: The toppings really make this soup!
This Taco Soup with Ranch recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its unique blend of flavors, ease of preparation, and versatility make it a perfect addition to your weeknight meal rotation. Enjoy!
