This Ranch Taco Soup is a warm and hearty dish loaded with flavorful ingredients like ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and zesty ranch seasoning. It’s like taco night in a bowl!
I love how easy it is to make, and the best part? You can top it with cheese and crunchy chips. It makes chilly days feel cozy and comforting! 🌮❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is your primary protein. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or use beans for a vegetarian version. I prefer a mix of different beans for great texture.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh is best for flavor, but you can use onion powder and garlic powder if you’re in a pinch. I often add extra garlic as I love that kick!
Beans: Black beans bring a nice creaminess, but you can use kidney beans or pinto beans if that’s what you have. They all work great!
Ranch and Taco Seasoning: These packets save time and add tons of flavor. If you’d like to make your own, mix dried herbs like dill, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika for ranch, and cumin, chili powder, and paprika for taco seasoning.
Chili Powder: This is optional but adds more depth. If you want a little more heat, use cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce instead.
How Do You Achieve the Best Flavor in Your Taco Soup?
The secret to a flavorful Ranch Taco Soup is in the simmering stage. The longer you let the soup cook, the better the flavors meld together. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Always brown your meat well. This adds rich flavor to the soup.
- Let the onions and garlic soften before adding other ingredients. This enhances their sweetness.
- Bring the soup to a rolling boil first, then reduce to a simmer. This allows all the spices to work their magic.
- Taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to match your personal preference.
Don’t forget to garnish! A bit of cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs can really elevate the dish. Enjoy your cooking!
Ranch Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 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, undrained
- 1 (14.5 oz) can tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for extra spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro or parsley, tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This warm and comforting Ranch Taco Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 25 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 35 minutes to enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat your stove to medium and add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon as you go. Once it’s done, drain any excess fat so your soup isn’t too greasy.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the cooked beef. Stir them in and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to add the fun stuff! Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (make sure to include the juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth. This is where your soup starts to come together!
4. Add Seasonings:
Mix in the ranch seasoning mix, taco seasoning mix, and optional chili powder for a little extra spice. Stir everything well to ensure those flavors are fully blended.
5. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup to a boil, and once it’s bubbling, lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. This is when all the flavors mingle, making it super tasty!
6. Adjust Seasoning:
Taste your soup and add salt and pepper if needed. Feel free to make it suit your taste. If you want a bit more heat, a dash of hot sauce works wonders!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes: sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese, add a dollop of sour cream, and toss on some chopped cilantro or parsley. Pair it with crunchy tortilla chips for that extra fun!
Enjoy this cozy and flavorful Ranch Taco Soup that’s like a taco party in a bowl! Perfect for sharing with family and friends. 🌮❤️
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. Just keep in mind that it may be a bit less flavorful, so you might want to add a little extra seasoning to enhance the taste.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Add extra beans, lentils, or grains to ensure it’s hearty and filling!
What Can I Serve with Ranch Taco Soup?
This soup is fantastic on its own, but you can serve it with crusty bread, cornbread, or paired with a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy customizing it to your taste!