1ozranch seasoning packetoptional but highly recommended
15ozcanned kidney beansdrained and rinsed
15ozcanned black beansdrained and rinsed
15ozcanned corndrained, or use frozen corn
14.5ozcanned fire-roasted diced tomatoesdo not drain
10ozcanned Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilesdo not drain
3cupsbeef brothlow-sodium preferred
1tablespoonolive oil
Toppings (Optional)
shredded cheddar cheese
sour cream
sliced jalapeños
crushed tortilla chips or Fritos
fresh cilantrochopped
lime wedges
sliced avocado or guacamole
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook for 7–9 minutes, until browned and cooked through with no pink remaining. Drain off excess fat, leaving a thin coating in the pot.
Sprinkle half of the taco seasoning (and ranch seasoning if using) over the browned beef and stir to coat evenly. Cook for 1 minute.
Add the drained kidney beans, black beans, and corn to the pot. Stir to combine.
Pour in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes, Rotel tomatoes, and beef broth. Add the remaining taco seasoning and stir everything together.
Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded and the broth has slightly thickened.
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lime juice as needed.
Ladle into bowls and serve hot with your choice of toppings — shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, crushed tortilla chips, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges are all highly recommended.
Notes
Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day. Make it up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate in an airtight container. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of broth.Freezer Friendly: Cool completely and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.Slow Cooker Option: Brown the beef and onion on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.Creamy Version: Stir in 4 oz softened cream cheese or 1 cup sour cream during the last 5 minutes of cooking.Sodium Tip: Use low-sodium canned goods and low-sodium broth to reduce overall sodium content significantly.