Name: Santa Fe Soup: Easy Taco Soup with Turkey Bacon and Chicken Ham
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 10 ounce can Rotel; 1 16 ounce can pinto beans, drained; 1 15 ounce can black beans, drained; 1 16 ounce can kidney beans, drained; 1 can corn kernels, drained; 1 1 ounce pack taco seasoning; 1 1 ounce pack ranch seasoning; 2 cups beef broth

Introduction to Santa Fe Soup

If you're a young professional juggling work responsibilities, social life, and maybe a side hustle, you need meals that are not only quick but also satisfying and tasty. Enter Santa Fe Soup! This delightful taco-inspired dish combines classic Southwestern flavors to create a comforting soup that can be your culinary lifesaver. With just a single pot, you can whip up a hearty meal in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Why is Santa Fe Soup the perfect solution for young professionals?

One of the standout features of Santa Fe Soup is its simplicity and versatility. Packed with protein from ground beef and a medley of beans, this recipe is both filling and nutritious. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have at home, whether swapping ground beef for turkey or throwing in extra veggies you might have left over.

Moreover, this soup is incredibly freezer-friendly. Make a big batch, portion it out, and you’ll have comforting meals waiting for you on those nights when you simply can’t cook. Additionally, many of the ingredients are pantry staples, paving the way for spontaneous cooking sessions without a trip to the grocery store.

For a deeper dive into the nutritional benefits of beans, check out this article on legumes and health. So, are you ready to savor a bowl of Santa Fe Soup and simplify your evenings? Let's get cooking!

Ingredients for Santa Fe Soup

When it comes to whipping up a comforting bowl of Santa Fe Soup, having the right ingredients is key. This dish is loaded with flavors and textures, making it a go-to meal for any day of the week.

Essential ingredients

To create the base of your Santa Fe Soup, you'll need:

1 pound ground beef: Adds a rich protein source.
1 cup onion, diced: For aromatic depth.
2 cloves garlic, minced: A must for that zesty kick.
1 teaspoon salt and ground black pepper: Essential for balancing flavors.
1 can (10 ounces) Rotel: For a spicy tomato base.
Canned beans (pinto, black, kidney): Savory, wholesome texture.
1 can corn kernels: A sweet crunch that elevates the dish.
1 ounce taco seasoning and ranch seasoning: Infuses that quintessential Southwestern flavor.
2 cups beef broth: Ties everything together beautifully.

Optional ingredients

Want to customize your Santa Fe Soup even more? Consider adding these ingredients:

Chopped bell peppers: For additional crunch and color.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A creamy topping that pairs perfectly.
Avocado slices: To bring in healthy fats and freshness.
Shredded cheese: Because who doesn't love melted cheese on top?

With these ingredients in hand, you’re all set to create a delicious bowl of Santa Fe Soup. Don't forget to explore more about the health benefits of these ingredients on websites like Healthline or WebMD. Enjoy!

Step-by-step Preparation of Santa Fe Soup

Preparing your delicious Santa Fe Soup is as rewarding as enjoying a warm bowl of it on a chilly evening. Follow these straightforward steps to create a meal that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also fill your kitchen with enticing aromas.

Brown the Ground Beef

To start, take a large pot or Dutch oven and place it over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef; leaner meat is best to keep the soup from being too greasy. As it cooks, use a wooden spoon to break it apart, allowing it to brown evenly. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once the beef is nicely browned, drain any excess grease. This step is crucial for achieving a cleaner flavor in your soup.

Sauté Onions and Garlic

With the beef nicely cooked, it’s time to take the flavor up a notch. Add 1 cup of diced onion to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent. The smell will be heavenly! Next, add 2 cloves of minced garlic along with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper. Sauté this mixture for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute. Garlic brings an aromatic depth, making your Santa Fe Soup even more inviting.

Add Seasonings and Broth

Now, let's spice things up! Sprinkle in 1 packet of taco seasoning and 1 packet of ranch seasoning, stirring well to incorporate these flavorful herbs and spices into the beef and onion mix. Then, slowly pour in 2 cups of beef broth to deglaze the pan, scraping any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Add a 10-ounce can of Rotel for a kick of flavor and heat. This blend of ingredients sets a luscious base for your soup.

Mix in the Beans and Corn

The next step is where the soup truly becomes sumptuous. Stir in the drained beans: 1 can each of pinto beans, black beans, and kidney beans, along with 1 can of drained corn. These ingredients not only boost the nutritional value but also add texture and heartiness to your Santa Fe Soup. Make sure everything is well combined, and then you’re almost there!

Simmer to Perfection

Finally, cover the pot and let your soup simmer on medium-low heat for about 30 minutes. This is the perfect time to allow all the flavors to meld together beautifully. The result will be a warm, comforting bowl of Santa Fe Soup that's both filling and satisfying.

Consider serving with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro for an extra touch. Ready to dive into your creation? Your taste buds will thank you!

Variations on Santa Fe Soup

Vegetarian Santa Fe Soup

Looking for a meat-free option? You can easily whip up a Vegetarian Santa Fe Soup by substituting the ground beef with a mix of sautéed mushrooms and zucchini. This will add depth to your soup while keeping it hearty. Additionally, you can include extra beans like navy beans or lentils to amp up the protein. This not only creates a satisfying texture but also enhances the nutritional profile, making it perfect for a cozy evening.

For a fantastic guide on cooking beans from scratch, check out this resource from The Bean Institute.

Spicy Santa Fe Soup

If you prefer a little heat, turn up the spice in your Santa Fe Soup. Use spicy taco seasoning or add sliced jalapeños for a kick. You can also toss in some diced green chiles or a few dashes of hot sauce to really bring the heat. For an additional layer of flavor, consider roasting your vegetables before adding them to the pot. This not only intensifies their flavor but makes your soup even more satisfying!

Feel free to experiment and adjust the spice levels to suit your personal taste – the beauty of this soup is in its versatility!

Cooking tips and notes for Santa Fe Soup

Best types of beans to use

For a truly delicious Santa Fe Soup, you can’t go wrong with a combination of beans. I recommend using pinto beans, black beans, and kidney beans for their unique textures and flavors. Pinto beans add creaminess, while black beans deliver a rich, earthy note, and kidney beans provide a hearty bite. If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating cannellini beans or chickpeas for variety!

How to achieve optimal flavor

To elevate the flavor of your Santa Fe Soup, don't skip the taco seasoning and ranch seasoning—they're game-changers! Sauté the onions and garlic until they're nice and fragrant to build a solid flavor base. Additionally, using a quality beef broth can enrich the overall taste, so choose a low-sodium option for better control over the saltiness. Let the soup simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow all those flavors to meld together beautifully. Consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or avocado slices for an extra touch of freshness!

For more inspiration, you can explore Cooking Light's seasoning tips or Healthline's guide on the nutritional benefits of beans.

Serving Suggestions for Santa Fe Soup

Topping Ideas

Elevate your Santa Fe Soup experience with a variety of delightful toppings! Consider adding:

Shredded cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack melt beautifully over the hot soup.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop adds creaminess and balances the spices.
Fresh cilantro or green onions: These ensure a burst of freshness in every bite.
Crushed tortilla chips: A crunchy contrast that elevates texture and flavor.
Sliced avocados: They contribute a rich, buttery taste that perfectly complements the soup.

Pairing Options

Looking to enhance your meal further? Pair your Santa Fe Soup with one or more of these options:

Cornbread: Whether sweet or savory, it’s a reliable sidekick.
Rice or quinoa: A hearty addition that complements the soup's robust flavors.
Simple side salad: A light salad with a vinaigrette will balance the richness.
Fruit salsa: Try a mango or pineapple salsa for a refreshing contrast.
Non-alcoholic beverages: Sparkling water with a squeeze of lime or iced tea can offer a refreshing lift.

By integrating these toppings and pairing options, each bowl of Santa Fe Soup can become a personal culinary adventure. Have fun experimenting!

Time Breakdown for Santa Fe Soup

Preparation time
Getting started with your Santa Fe Soup is quick! You’ll need about 10 minutes to chop your onions, garlic, and gather all your ingredients.

Cooking time
Once you start cooking, this flavorful soup takes around 30 minutes to simmer on the stove, allowing all the ingredients to blend beautifully.

Total time
In just 40 minutes, you’ll have a warm, comforting pot of Santa Fe Soup ready to serve. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends!

For more details on making the best taco soup, check out this handy guide. The texture and taste will leave your guests raving!

Nutritional Facts for Santa Fe Soup

When it comes to enjoying a hearty bowl of Santa Fe Soup, knowing the nutritional content can help you make healthier choices. Here’s a quick glance at what this delightful dish offers:

Calories

One serving of Santa Fe Soup contains approximately 320 calories, making it a satisfying yet reasonable option for lunch or dinner.

Protein

Loaded with protein, this soup provides about 25 grams per serving. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to boost their protein intake—perfect after a workout or a long day.

Sodium

Watch out for sodium! Each serving contains around 800 mg, which is an important consideration if you're watching your salt intake. For healthier options, consider using low-sodium broth or rinsing canned beans.

Want to learn more about balancing your meals while enjoying flavorful dishes like Santa Fe Soup? Check out resources from the American Heart Association for comprehensive dietary tips!

FAQs about Santa Fe Soup

Can I make Santa Fe Soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Making Santa Fe Soup in a slow cooker is not only possible, but it’s also a fantastic way to enhance the flavors. Simply brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker, adding the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method gives the soup a rich, deep flavor that’s hard to resist.

How long does leftover Santa Fe Soup last?

Leftover Santa Fe Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to place it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, and it’ll taste almost as good as when you first made it!

Can I freeze Santa Fe Soup?

Yes, you can definitely freeze Santa Fe Soup! Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it will keep well for about 3 months. To reheat, simply let it thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave. For tips on freezing soups, consider checking out resources like BBC Good Food for best practices.

Conclusion on Santa Fe Soup

Why you should try making Santa Fe Soup today!

Santa Fe Soup is the perfect blend of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing. This hearty, hearty taco soup is not only easy to prepare, but it also provides a comforting meal for any occasion. Plus, it's a fantastic way to sneak in some extra vegetables and beans, making it a nutritious choice for busy weeknights. If you’re looking to impress, this recipe is an excellent choice for gatherings with friends and family.

So why wait? Dive into the rich taste of Santa Fe Soup today! You’ll find it becomes a go-to dish in your meal rotation, satisfying both your appetite and your cravings for something delicious. For more meal inspiration, consider checking out EatingWell for nutritious tweaks and recipe ideas.