Taco Soup Frios Recipe
Ingredients
Pantry Staples:
- Taco Seasoning: Adds that signature zesty smoky flavor. You can use store-bought or make your own blend for a personal touch.
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: Opt for fire-roasted for an extra depth of flavor.
- Canned Beans: Black beans pinto beans, or kidney beans all work wonderfully. Rinse and drain for the best texture.
- Corn: Either canned or frozen corn kernels will do. Sweet corn adds a lovely balance to the spices.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth: The base of the soup—choose low-sodium to control the salt level.
Fresh Ingredients:
- Ground Beef or Protein of Choice: Ground turkey or even plant-based crumbles make great substitutes if you prefer.
- Onion and Garlic: These are sautéed at the start to create a rich aromatic base.
- Optional Fresh Toppings: Chopped cilantro diced avocado, lime wedges, or sliced jalapeños for a burst of freshness and color.
Dairy and Extras:
- Cream Cheese or Sour Cream: Stirred in to create a creamy velvety texture that perfectly balances the spices.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melted over the top for that gooey comforting finish.
- Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping or crumbling into the soup for added crunch.
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Toss in diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent (about 3-4 minutes). This step lays the foundation for a rich, flavorful soup.
Step 2: Brown the Protein
- Add the ground beef (or your preferred protein) to the pot. Cook until it’s browned and crumbled, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess fat, if needed.
Step 3: Add the Flavor Base
- Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir to coat the meat evenly. This ensures every bite is packed with bold, zesty flavor.
Step 4: Combine the Main Ingredients
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, followed by the canned diced tomatoes, beans, and corn. Give everything a good stir to combine.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Add the Creamy Touch
- Stir in the cream cheese or sour cream until fully melted and incorporated. This step gives the soup its signature creamy texture and balances the spices.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
- Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add a pinch of salt, a squeeze of lime, or a dash of hot sauce for extra zing!
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, avocado slices, or a handful of crushed tortilla chips.