Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's also quick and easy to make? Look no further! This No Bean Taco Soup recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and satisfies those taco cravings without the fuss of traditional taco night. It's packed with deliciousness, is surprisingly healthy, and requires minimal cleanup – a win-win for everyone. This easy recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chilies, undrained
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, avocado, chopped cilantro, tortilla chips
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Simmer the Soup: Stir in the diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), diced tomatoes, corn, green chilies, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 15 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese and your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, avocado, cilantro, or tortilla chips.
Cooking Tips for the Best No Bean Taco Soup:
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference. If you like things extra spicy, feel free to add more! A dash of hot sauce is also a great addition.
- Make it your own: This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
- Slow Cooker Option: For an even easier meal, this soup can be made in a slow cooker. Brown the beef as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Meal Prep Magic: This soup is perfect for meal prepping. Make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week for quick and easy lunches or dinners.
Variations:
- Chicken Taco Soup: Substitute ground chicken or turkey for the ground beef.
- Vegetarian Taco Soup: Omit the meat entirely and add a can of drained and rinsed black beans for a heartier vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a general estimate for one serving (assuming ground beef) is approximately:
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This No Bean Taco Soup recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for a busy weeknight. It’s a great example of homemade cooking that’s both quick and healthy, making it a staple in our house. Enjoy!