
Taco Soup is a beloved American Tex-Mex–inspired comfort dish that combines the heartiness of chili with the zest of tacos. Popular in the American South and Midwest, it’s a one-pot wonder known for its bold flavor, easy preparation, and flexibility. This recipe blends ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and hominy with taco seasoning and ranch dressing mix for a savory, slightly tangy profile. Its origins trace to the mid-20th century home-cooking trend of “dump soups,” prized for quick, crowd-pleasing meals. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for weeknights or gatherings, especially topped with cheese and green onions.
Equipment
- 1 large pot
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 onion (large, chopped)
- 12 oz green chillies (chopped or diced)
- 1 can pinto beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 can yellow hominy (drained )
- 1 can kidney beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 can lima beans (drained)
- 43 ½ oz tomatoes (chopped, 3 cans)
- 2 packs Lowry's taco seasoning
- 1 pack dry ranch dressing mix (* secret ingredient)
- 1 ½ cups water
- 1 dash salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- Cheddar cheese (garnish, to taste)
- green onion (chopped, garnish, to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
- Brown 2 pounds of ground beef with 1 large chopped onion in a large pot.
- Rinse the browned meat with hot water to remove fat while retaining flavor.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
- Add green chilis, pinto beans, yellow hominy, kidney beans, lima beans, and chopped tomatoes to the pot.
Step 3: Season and Mix
- Stir in taco seasoning, ranch dressing mix, salt, pepper, and water.
Step 4: Simmer
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with shredded cheddar cheese or chopped green onions. Serve warm.
Tips
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add corn kernels for extra sweetness and texture.
- Use hot green chilis for a spicier version.
- Freeze leftovers for up to three months.
- Top with sour cream, avocado, or crushed tortilla chips for added richness.
Nutrition
Serving: 1.5cupsCalories: 340kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 880mgPotassium: 860mgFiber: 8gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 900IUVitamin C: 18mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 4mg
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