Name: Delicious Santa Fe Soup for Cozy Family Dinners
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground Beef (or ground turkey); 1 cup Onion (diced, yellow or white); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon Salt (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper (freshly ground is ideal); 1 can (10 oz) Rotel (or diced tomatoes and green chilies); 1 can (16 oz) Pinto Beans (drained and rinsed); 1 can (15 oz) Black Beans (drained and rinsed); 1 can (16 oz) Kidney Beans (drained and rinsed); 1 can Corn Kernels (or frozen corn); 1 pack (1 oz) Taco Seasoning (try homemade blends if preferred); 1 pack (1 oz) Ranch Seasoning (optional); 2 cups Beef Broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)

As I stood by the stove, the warm, savory aroma of spices filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to the heart of the Southwest. This Hearty Santa Fe Soup, or Taco Soup as many love to call it, is a true gem for cozy family dinners. Not only is this dish a hearty one-pot miracle, perfect for those brisk evenings, but it can also be customized with a variety of toppings to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you choose to whip it up on the stovetop or let it gently simmer in a slow cooker, this recipe seamlessly blends convenience and taste, all while leaving you with ample time to kick back and relax. Curious about how this Tex-Mex delight can become your new weeknight favorite? Let’s dive in!

Why is Santa Fe Soup a Must-Make?

Versatility: This Santa Fe Soup is easily customizable; swap ingredients based on your pantry or dietary needs. Choose ground beef, turkey, or opt for a vegetarian twist with plant-based proteins.

Quick Preparation: With just a few steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when time is limited.

Crowd-Pleaser: Not only is this soup loved by adults, but kids will also enjoy the playful toppings. Picture a family dinner where everyone gets to add their favorite garnishes!

Warmth in Every Bowl: The inviting blend of spices and textures makes this soup feel like a warm hug, ideal for cozy evenings at home.

Easy Storage: Leftovers store beautifully! Enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort throughout the week. Don’t forget to check out our tips on freezing soup for extended enjoyment!

Santa Fe Soup Ingredients

For the Soup
• Ground Beef – Main protein source for heartiness; substitute with ground turkey or omit for a vegetarian version.
• Onion (diced) – Adds sweetness and depth; use yellow or white onion; finely dice for faster cooking.
• Garlic (minced) – Enhances flavor profile; fresh garlic is preferred but garlic powder can be used.
• Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste and consider using low-sodium options.
• Ground Black Pepper – Adds slight heat; freshly ground is ideal for the best flavor.
• Rotel (10 oz can) – Provides a zesty tomato base; substitute with diced tomatoes and green chilies for similar flavor.
• Pinto Beans (16 oz can) – Adds creaminess and fiber; feel free to replace with your preferred beans.
• Black Beans (15 oz can) – Provides protein and texture; make sure to drain and rinse before adding.
• Kidney Beans (16 oz can) – Offers color and heartiness; substitute with any beans you have on hand.
• Corn Kernels (1 can) – Sweet crunch; frozen corn can be used as a great substitute.
• Taco Seasoning (1 oz pack) – Essential for authentic taco flavor; try homemade blends if you prefer.
• Ranch Seasoning (1 oz pack) – Enhances richness; optional but adds great flavor.
• Beef Broth (2 cups) – Base liquid adding richness; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Santa Fe Soup

Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium heat and add 1 pound of ground beef. Cook the beef for about 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s fully browned. Drain any excess grease to keep the Santa Fe soup light and flavorful.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
Add 1 cup of diced onion to the pot with the beef, stirring occasionally. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onion becomes tender and translucent, providing a lovely base for your Santa Fe soup.

Step 3: Add Flavor Foundations
Stir in 2 minced cloves of garlic, along with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to release its fragrant aroma, enhancing the robust flavors already developing in the soup.

Step 4: Mix in the Seasonings and Liquids
Pour in the taco seasoning and ranch seasoning, mixing until well combined. Add 2 cups of beef broth, the can of Rotel, and the pinto, black, and kidney beans, followed by the corn. Stir everything together, creating a rich, colorful medley for your Santa Fe soup.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let your soup simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This gentle cook allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a hearty and satisfying Santa Fe soup.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
After simmering, remove the lid and give your soup a final stir. Ladle the Santa Fe soup into bowls, and serve it hot with your choice of toppings. Consider garnishing with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh jalapeños for that extra comforting touch!

Expert Tips for Santa Fe Soup

Finely Dice Onions: To ensure quicker cooking, dice your onions finely. This will help them soften faster and blend better into the soup.
Rinse Canned Ingredients: Always rinse and drain canned beans and corn before adding them to your Santa Fe soup. This practice improves texture and reduces excess sodium for a healthier dish.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a kick of heat, consider adding hot sauce or diced jalapeños to your soup as it simmers. Start small, and adjust to your taste.
Develop Flavors: Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking before serving. This resting period enhances the depth of flavors, making your Santa Fe soup even more delicious.
Experiment with Toppings: Try offering a variety of toppings to create a fun dining experience. Options like avocado, crispy tortilla strips, or fresh cilantro can elevate your soup’s flavor and presentation.

What to Serve with Hearty Santa Fe Soup?

Enjoy a delightful dining experience by pairing it with these complementary options that enhance this flavorful dish.

Cornbread Muffins: Their slightly sweet and crumbly texture brings a comforting contrast to the robust soup, making each bite a joyous delight.
Crispy Tortilla Chips: Crunchy and salty, these chips provide great texture and can be dipped right into the soup for extra fun at the table.
Avocado Slices: Creamy fresh avocado adds a luscious richness, balancing the spices of the soup beautifully while providing a burst of freshness.
Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of melted cheese on top elevates every serving, enriching the soup and creating a gooey layer of comfort.
Sour Cream: This tangy addition cools down the heat while adding creaminess, making it a perfect counterpoint to the savory flavors of the Santa Fe soup.
Zesty Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens the entire experience, awakening the flavors in the soup and adding a refreshing twist to each spoonful.
Fresh Cilantro: This herb adds a burst of freshness and color, offering an aromatic touch that harmonizes with the robust Tex-Mex profile of the dish.
Hot Sauce: For those who love an extra kick, a dash of hot sauce can turn up the flavor intensity for a spicier meal experience.

Santa Fe Soup Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to personalize your Santa Fe soup and make it truly your own with these fun twists and swaps!

Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with plant-based proteins and use vegetable broth for a hearty, meat-free delight.
Whether you choose lentils or extra beans, your soup will still shine with flavor.
Different Beans: Mix and match beans based on what you have; white beans or black-eyed peas work beautifully.
This offers a new texture and flavor profile that can keep things interesting!
Vegetable Boost: Toss in diced bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
Not only do they enhance the flavor, but they’ll also brighten up your dish!
Spicy Kick: For heat lovers, add fresh jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce during cooking.
Adjust the spice level according to your family’s taste—it’s all about comfort, after all!
Creamy Touch: Stir in a bit of cream or a scoop of sour cream for a richer texture.
Creaminess can elevate the warmth and comfort level of this hearty soup.
Homemade Seasoning: Create your own taco seasoning for a unique blend of spices tailored to your preference.
When you take control of the seasoning, it’s easy to cater it to your flavor loves!
Corn Variation: Use fresh corn or frozen corn for a sweeter crunch instead of canned.
The burst of freshness brightens every spoonful, making it feel like summer on a cold night.
Switch Up the Broth: Use chicken broth for extra depth or keep it vegetarian with veggie broth.
Selecting the right broth can dramatically shift the soup’s personality!

Explore these variations and let your Santa Fe soup become a canvas for your culinary imagination! For more tips on enhancing your meals, you can check out our guide on spice customization.

Make Ahead Options

These Santa Fe Soup preparations are a game-changer for busy weeknights! You can sauté the ground beef, onion, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to simply combine the remaining ingredients and let it simmer when you’re ready to eat. Additionally, mix the canned beans and broth in a separate container, and refrigerate. To maintain the soup’s quality, store everything in airtight containers to prevent any flavors from mingling too soon. When it’s time to serve, just heat everything in a pot, stir, and keep simmering for about 15 minutes, achieving a delicious, stress-free meal that tastes just as fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Santa Fe Soup

Fridge: Store leftover Santa Fe soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Allow the soup to cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Airtight Storage: For the best flavor and texture, ensure containers are sealed tightly. This will help prevent freezer burn and retain the delicious Tex-Mex flavors.

Santa Fe Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of meat is best for Santa Fe Soup?
For the heartiness of Santa Fe soup, ground beef is a wonderful option, but you can easily substitute it with ground turkey or even skip the meat altogether for a vegetarian version. If you choose to go meatless, consider using plant-based proteins like lentils or textured vegetable protein for added texture and protein.

How should I store leftover Santa Fe Soup?
After enjoying your flavorful Santa Fe soup, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It’s best to let the soup cool to room temperature before sealing it. This helps maintain its delicious taste and prevents any sogginess.

Can I freeze Santa Fe Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze Santa Fe soup, allow it to cool to room temperature first. Then, divide the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top as it may expand while freezing. Label each container with the date and enjoy it within 3 months for optimal flavor.

What can I add if I want extra veggies in my Santa Fe Soup?
If you’re looking to boost the veggie content, consider adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even corn. Simply toss in your desired vegetables during the sautéing step with the onions. This addition not only enhances nutrition but also adds more color and variety to your soup.

Are there any common issues when making Santa Fe Soup?
One common troubleshooting tip is to ensure the beans and corn are well rinsed and drained before adding them to enhance the soup’s overall texture. If the soup is too thick, you can thin it with a bit more beef or vegetable broth. For spice lovers, add jalapeños during cooking, adjusting to taste for your ideal heat level!