Growing up, 7 Can Taco Soup was a family favorite that always brought us together. I can still remember the aroma of simmering spices and the sound of the cans being popped open in the kitchen. It was a dish that was so easy to make, but it always felt like a comforting hug in a bowl.
My mom would gather all the cans – the beans, the corn, the tomatoes, and the taco seasoning – and within 30 minutes, we’d have a piping hot, flavor-packed 7 Can Taco Soup ready to go. It was a dish that could feed a crowd, and it was always a hit at potlucks and family gatherings. To this day, whenever I smell that blend of chili powder, cumin, and garlic, it takes me right back to those cozy memories.
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Why This 7 Can Taco Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect 7 Can Taco Soup
What makes this 7 Can Taco Soup recipe so special is the way it effortlessly combines simple, pantry-staple ingredients into a flavor explosion. The key is in the balance of the seasonings and the perfect ratio of the canned goods. It’s a recipe that’s been perfected over the years, and it’s guaranteed to become a new family favorite.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
– Ground beef: The backbone of the soup, providing heartiness and protein.
– Taco seasoning: A blend of spices that gives the 7 Can Taco Soup its signature flavor.
– Canned black beans: Adds fiber and a creamy texture.
– Canned kidney beans: Brings an extra layer of texture and plant-based protein.
– Canned corn: Adds sweetness and a pop of color.
– Canned diced tomatoes: The base that brings it all together.
– Chicken broth: Helps to thin out the soup and create the perfect consistency.
Step-by-Step 7 Can Taco Soup Instructions
Preparing Your 7 Can Taco Soup
7 Can Taco Soup is one of the easiest and most delicious dishes you can make. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a cozy and comforting meal ready in no time. The total prep and cook time is just 30 minutes, and all you need is a large pot and a few basic kitchen tools.
1- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, making sure to crumble it as it cooks.
2- Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat and return the pot to the heat.
3- Add the taco seasoning and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4- One by one, open and add the cans of black beans, kidney beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. The soup should start to thicken and the flavors will meld together.
5- Let the 7 Can Taco Soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency.
6- Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro.
Pro Tips for Success
The key to the best 7 Can Taco Soup is to not overthink it. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. A common mistake is to add too many additional ingredients, which can overwhelm the balance of flavors. Stick to the core canned goods, and let the taco seasoning do its magic.
Another pro tip is to not be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your personal taste. Some people prefer a spicier soup, while others like it a bit milder. Feel free to add more taco seasoning or a pinch of chili powder if you want to amp up the heat.
Serving and Storing Your 7 Can Taco Soup
Perfect Pairings for 7 Can Taco Soup
7 Can Taco Soup is the ultimate comfort food, and it pairs perfectly with a variety of sides and toppings. For a complete meal, serve it with warm cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad. It also makes a great appetizer or main course for game day gatherings or casual dinners.
Don’t forget the classic toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, and chopped green onions. These extras add a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about 7 Can Taco Soup is that it actually gets better the next day. The flavors have time to meld and intensify, making it the perfect make-ahead meal.
To store, simply let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to serve, you can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
7 Can Taco Soup also freezes beautifully. Let it cool, then pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for 7 Can Taco Soup
Creative 7 Can Taco Soup Variations
While the classic 7 Can Taco Soup is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on the recipe. Try swapping out the ground beef for shredded chicken or turkey for a leaner protein. You can also experiment with different bean varieties, like pinto or white beans.
For a seasonal twist, add in diced bell peppers or zucchini. In the fall, try roasted sweet potatoes or butternut squash. And don’t be afraid to play with the spices, adding a dash of cumin, oregano, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika.
Making 7 Can Taco Soup Diet-Friendly
7 Can Taco Soup is naturally gluten-free, and it’s easy to adapt for other dietary needs as well. For a low-carb or keto version, simply omit the corn and use low-sugar or no-sugar-added canned tomatoes.
To make it vegan, substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or crumbled tofu. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
No matter how you customize it, 7 Can Taco Soup is a delicious and versatile meal that the whole family will love.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in 7 Can Taco Soup?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for the ground beef in this recipe. It will provide a leaner protein option while still keeping the classic taco soup flavor.
Q: How long does 7 Can Taco Soup take to make?
A: From start to finish, this 7 Can Taco Soup recipe takes just 30 minutes. The active prep time is minimal, as you’re mainly opening cans and letting the flavors meld together on the stovetop.
Q: Can I freeze 7 Can Taco Soup?
A: Yes, 7 Can Taco Soup freezes very well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: How many servings does this 7 Can Taco Soup recipe make?
A: This 7 Can Taco Soup recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings, depending on portion size. It’s a hearty and filling soup, so a single bowl can easily make a complete meal.
Q: My 7 Can Taco Soup turned out watery. What can I do?
A: If your 7 Can Taco Soup is looking a little too thin, there are a few things you can try. First, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also try stirring in a cornstarch or flour slurry to thicken it up. Start with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or flour mixed with 2 tablespoons of water, and gradually add more if needed.
7 Can Taco Soup
- Total Time: 15
- Yield: 6
Description
This easy 7 Can Taco Soup is a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd. Made with just a handful of pantry staples, it’s a comforting and flavorful Mexican-inspired dish that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients
– 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
– 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
– 1 (1 oz) package taco seasoning
Instructions
1. – In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine all the canned ingredients and the taco seasoning.
2. – Stir well to combine.
3. – Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
4. – Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. – Serve hot, garnished with your favorite taco toppings such as shredded cheese, diced avocado, or crushed tortilla chips.
Notes
– For a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans with a potato masher or the back of a spoon.
– Feel free to add cooked ground beef or shredded chicken to make it a heartier meal.
– Adjust the amount of taco seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Conclusion
7 Can Taco Soup is the ultimate comfort food – it’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and sure to bring everyone to the table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy meal for the family, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new staple in your kitchen.
So what are you waiting for? Gather your cans, heat up the pot, and get ready to enjoy the flavors of this amazing 7 Can Taco Soup. I promise, it’ll transport you right back to those warm, nostalgic memories, just like it does for me. Let me know how it turns out in the comments below!