This Ranch Taco Soup is a cozy dish packed with flavors! It features zesty ranch seasoning, juicy ground beef, beans, and tomatoes all simmered together for a warm treat.
It’s like a party in a bowl! I love to top mine with cheese and tortilla chips for extra crunch—so good! Who could resist that combo? 🌮❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives the soup its hearty texture and flavor. You could use ground turkey for a lighter option or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist.
Ranch and Taco Seasoning: These packs add a punch of flavor that’s hard to beat. If you don’t have them, mix your own spices! Combine garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and a bit of paprika for a similar taste.
Black Beans: They add protein and fiber! If you’re not a fan, kidney beans or pinto beans work well too. Canned beans save time, but dried beans can also be used if pre-cooked.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds creaminess at the end. You can substitute it with Monterey Jack or even dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a non-dairy alternative.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Ground Beef?
Cooking ground beef properly ensures it’s flavorful and safe to eat. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and use a spatula to break it up while it cooks.
- Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. The beef should no longer be pink.
- Don’t forget to drain any excess fat! This keeps your soup from being greasy and allows other flavors to shine through.
Following these steps will set a great base for your Ranch Taco Soup!
How to Make Ranch Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Protein: 1 lb ground beef
- Vegetables: 1 small onion, diced
- Canned Goods:
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- Seasonings:
- 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning mix
- Liquids:
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- Cheese: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ranch Taco Soup will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you should be ready to enjoy your warm bowl in about 40 minutes. Quick, easy, and so tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s cooked, drain any excess fat to keep your soup nice and healthy.
2. Sauté the Onion:
Add the diced onion to the pot and cook it with the beef for about 3-4 minutes, or until it softens up and turns translucent. This will add great flavor to your soup!
3. Add the Seasonings:
Stir in the ranch seasoning mix and the taco seasoning mix. Make sure the beef and onions are fully coated in the spices for the best flavor.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Pour in the diced tomatoes (make sure to include their juices!), black beans, corn, beef broth, and water. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients.
5. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup to a boil over high heat. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low so that it simmers uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Melt in the Cheese:
Once simmering time is up, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it melts into the soup, making it creamy and delicious.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, scoop the soup into bowls and top it with a dollop of sour cream, additional shredded cheese, and a handful of crispy tortilla chips for that extra crunch!
Enjoy your warm and flavorful Ranch Taco Soup with family and friends! Happy cooking! 🌮❤️
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great leaner alternative! Just cook it the same way, and it will still deliver that hearty flavor you love.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and substitute it with your choice of protein, such as lentils, chickpeas, or extra beans. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious base!
Can I Freeze Leftover Ranch Taco Soup?
Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat when ready to enjoy!
How Can I Add More Vegetables?
Feel free to add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to the soup for extra nutrition! Just sauté them with the onion before adding the beef for a tasty twist.
