7 Can Taco Soup Recipe

If you are craving a comforting and hearty meal that comes together effortlessly, the 7 Can Taco Soup is exactly what you need. Packed with vibrant colors, bold flavors, and a satisfying mix of textures, this soup takes just a few simple pantry staples and transforms them into a fiesta of taste. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or want a quick dinner that warms you from the inside out, this dish will quickly become one of your weeknight heroes. With every spoonful, you’ll fall more in love with its rich, taco-inspired charm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these seven straightforward ingredients is all you need to make a memorable 7 Can Taco Soup. Each component plays an essential role, from the savory depth of ground beef to the zesty punch of Rotel tomatoes, bringing balance and texture to every bowl.

• Ground beef (1 lb): Adds a hearty, meaty base that’s rich and satisfying.
• Onion (1, chopped): Provides natural sweetness and aromatic depth to complement the beef.
• Water (2 1/2 cups): Helps meld all the ingredients together and creates a comforting broth.
• Pinto beans (32 oz, 2 cans, drained): Offers creamy texture and earthy goodness, boosting the soup’s heartiness.
• Corn (16 oz, 1 can, drained): Adds subtle sweetness and a delightful pop in each bite.
• Rotel Original (10 oz): Brings a zesty kick of diced tomatoes, onions, and peppers, elevating the flavor profile.
• Black beans (15 oz, drained): Provide extra protein and a satisfying bite to the soup.
• Crushed tomatoes (30 oz, 2 cans): Creates a rich, velvety tomato base that ties all ingredients together.
• Taco seasoning (1 oz packet): Infuses the soup with classic southwestern spices that awaken the palate.
• Ranch seasoning (2 tbsp): Adds a creamy, tangy twist that complements the taco flavor (optional but highly recommended).

How to Make 7 Can Taco Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Onion

Begin by heating a large pot over high heat. Toss in the ground beef and chopped onion to start browning the beef and softening the onion. Breaking the beef apart with a spatula while cooking helps it brown evenly and absorb all those delicious aromatic flavors.

Step 2: Brown the Meat Thoroughly

As the ground beef simmers and sizzles, reduce the heat slightly to medium-high. Keep stirring every minute or so until the beef turns a lovely golden brown and is cooked through—this usually takes about seven minutes. This step is crucial for developing the rich, savory foundation of your soup.

Step 3: Prepare the Canned Ingredients

While the meat cooks, open up all your cans. Carefully drain the pinto beans, black beans, and corn to prevent excess liquid from thinning out your soup. Prepping these now keeps assembly smooth and speeds things up once the beef is ready.

Step 4: Combine Everything in the Pot

Once your beef and onions are perfectly cooked, add the measured water and all the drained cans, including pinto beans, black beans, corn, Rotel tomatoes, and crushed tomatoes. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and ranch mix to add layers of bold, tangy flavor that tie all the ingredients together beautifully.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Give everything a good stir and crank the heat back up to high, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Then, reduce heat to low and let your soup simmer for about 20 minutes. This simmering time lets all the flavors mingle and intensify, creating that signature, comforting 7 Can Taco Soup taste you can’t wait to enjoy.

How to Serve 7 Can Taco Soup

Garnishes

Topping your soup is where you can have fun! Some shredded cheddar cheese adds creamy richness, while chopped green onions provide a fresh crunch. A dollop of sour cream adds a cool, tangy contrast that balances the spices perfectly. You could even sprinkle a bit of fresh cilantro for a burst of herbal brightness.

Side Dishes

Pair this soup with warm, crispy tortilla chips or a basket of soft, buttery cornbread to scoop up every last drop. A simple side salad with a light lime vinaigrette can add a refreshing balance to your meal, making the whole experience feel well-rounded and festive.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the 7 Can Taco Soup in charming rustic bowls and top with a crunchy tortilla strip or crushed chips for added texture. For a fun twist, ladle the soup into hollowed-out mini bell peppers or bread bowls for a playful presentation that will impress family and friends alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to four days. Store it in an airtight container to retain all the flavors and moisture, and it will be just as delicious for your next lunch or dinner.

Freezing

You can also freeze 7 Can Taco Soup for longer storage. Simply let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to three months, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge or warm it gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You might want to add a splash of water or broth if the soup thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I make 7 Can Taco Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Skip the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor. You can also add extra beans or diced veggies like zucchini or bell peppers to keep it hearty.

What can I substitute for the ranch seasoning?

If you don’t have ranch seasoning on hand, you can use extra taco seasoning or a blend of dried herbs like parsley, dill, and garlic powder for a similar flavor twist.

Is it possible to use fresh ingredients instead of canned?

Yes, although convenience is what makes this soup special. For fresh, use cooked beans instead of canned and fresh diced tomatoes in place of crushed tomatoes. Just be mindful of adjusting cooking times to allow flavors to meld.

How spicy is 7 Can Taco Soup?

The original recipe has a mild to medium spice level due to the taco seasoning and Rotel tomatoes. You can easily adjust the heat by adding extra diced jalapeños or hot sauce if you crave more kick.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Definitely! Brown the beef and onions first, then add all ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for effortless, flavorful results.

Final Thoughts

The 7 Can Taco Soup is a true crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Its simplicity, combined with bold, comforting flavors, makes it a must-try recipe for anyone who loves hearty, satisfying meals without the fuss. Give it a go and watch it become your next favorite weeknight staple!

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