Recipes

Budget-Friendly Taco Soup with Creamy Twist 2023

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 can diced tomatoes, strained ($0.85)
  • 1 can corn, strained ($0.61)
  • 1/2 carton beef broth (about 2 cups), approximately ($0.65)
  • 1.3 lbs. ground chuck (or ground beef) ($5.00)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning ($0.50)
  • Sour cream (on hand)
  • Shredded cheese (on hand)

Optional Additions:

  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (add $0.75)

Instructions:

  1. Brown the Ground Chuck:
    • In a large pot, brown the ground chuck over medium-high heat. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Strain Tomatoes and Corn:
    • While the beef is browning, strain the diced tomatoes and corn to remove excess liquid.
  3. Add Tomatoes, Corn, and Beef Broth:
    • Add the strained diced tomatoes, strained corn, and half of the beef broth (about 2 cups) to the pot with the browned beef.
  4. Season with Taco Seasoning:
    • Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the mixture. Stir well to combine.
  5. Bring to a Boil, Simmer:
    • Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Optional: Add Black Beans (if desired):
    • If you’re adding black beans, drain and rinse them, then stir them into the soup. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
  7. Serve and Garnish:
    • Ladle the taco soup into bowls. If you have sour cream on hand, stir a dollop into each serving. Top with shredded cheese.
  8. Enjoy!
    • Your budget-friendly and flavorful Taco Soup is ready to be enjoyed. Serve with additional toppings like tortilla chips or fresh cilantro if desired.

Note: Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. If you have extra beef broth, you can add more to achieve your desired soup consistency.

This quick and easy Taco Soup is not only budget-friendly but also versatile. Customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy a delicious and comforting meal!

Here are some tips to make your Budget-Friendly Taco Soup with Creamy Twist even more delightful:

  1. Fresh Ingredients:
    • Whenever possible, use fresh tomatoes and corn for an extra burst of flavor. If in-season, consider using fresh corn off the cob.
  2. Homemade Taco Seasoning:
    • Make your own taco seasoning for a personalized blend of spices. This allows you to control the level of heat and tailor it to your taste preferences.
  3. Slow Cooker Option:
    • For convenience, consider making this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the beef first, then transfer all ingredients to the slow cooker and let it simmer on low for 4-6 hours.
  4. Vegetable Additions:
    • Experiment with additional vegetables like diced bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for added color and nutrition.
  5. Cilantro Freshness:
    • Garnish the soup with fresh cilantro just before serving for a pop of fresh, citrusy flavor.
  6. Lime Squeeze:
    • Squeeze a bit of fresh lime juice into the soup just before serving to enhance the overall brightness of the flavors.
  7. Crunchy Toppings:
    • Serve the soup with a side of crunchy tortilla chips or crumble some on top for added texture.
  8. Avocado Cream:
    • For a creamier twist, blend sour cream with ripe avocado to create an avocado cream. Swirl this into the soup for a rich and velvety finish.
  9. Cheese Variety:
    • Experiment with different cheese varieties. Smoked cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend can add unique flavors.
  10. Hot Sauce Kick:
    • If you like heat, offer hot sauce on the side for individual customization. Guests can spice up their bowls according to their preference.
  11. Prep and Freeze:
    • Prepare a larger batch and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient meals on busy days. It reheats well and maintains its deliciousness.
  12. Serve with a Side:
    • Accompany the soup with a side of rice, warm tortillas, or a simple green salad for a more substantial meal.
  13. Herb Infusion:
    • Infuse the beef broth with a sprig of fresh oregano or cilantro while simmering for added herbal notes.
  14. Roasted Corn Option:
    • For a deeper flavor, roast fresh or frozen corn in the oven before adding it to the soup.
  15. Double Up on Toppings:
    • Set up a topping station with extra shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, green onions, and any other favorite toppings. Let everyone customize their bowl.

Remember, these tips are meant to inspire creativity, so feel free to tailor the soup to your liking. Enjoy your delightful and budget-friendly Taco Soup!

 

Here are some popular questions and answers related to the Budget-Friendly Taco Soup with Creamy Twist:

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A1: Yes, absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to ground beef and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.

Q2: Can I make this soup vegetarian? A2: Certainly! Skip the ground meat and use vegetable broth. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, beans, or corn for a hearty vegetarian version.

Q3: How long does the soup last in the refrigerator? A3: The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Q4: Can I freeze the Taco Soup? A4: Yes, the soup freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q5: Can I make this in a slow cooker? A5: Absolutely! Brown the beef, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until flavors meld together.

Q6: What other toppings can I add? A6: Get creative with toppings! Try diced avocado, chopped green onions, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of Greek yogurt in addition to sour cream and shredded cheese.

Q7: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? A7: Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Dice them and use about 1.5 cups as a substitute for the canned diced tomatoes.

Q8: How can I make it spicier? A8: Increase the heat by adding cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or your favorite hot sauce. Adjust to your preferred spice level.

Q9: Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth? A9: Absolutely! Chicken broth can be used as a substitute for beef broth, and it will still result in a flavorful soup.

Q10: Is this soup suitable for meal prep? A10: Yes, it’s excellent for meal prep. Prepare a batch, portion it into containers, and refrigerate or freeze for convenient lunches or dinners.

Q11: Can I make it without taco seasoning? A11: While taco seasoning adds classic flavors, you can substitute it with a blend of cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika for a homemade alternative.

Q12: What can I serve as a side with this soup? A12: Serve the soup with warm tortillas, tortilla chips, or a side of rice. A simple green salad or coleslaw also pairs well.

Q13: Can I make it milder for kids? A13: Absolutely! Use a mild taco seasoning, and adjust or omit any additional spicy ingredients to make it kid-friendly.

Feel free to ask if you have more specific questions or if there’s anything else you’d like to know!