Santa Fe Soup

This Santa Fe Soup is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply craving a hearty meal, this soup delivers rich flavors and satisfying nutrition. The combination of ground beef, beans, and spices creates a delightful blend that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s easy to prepare on the stove or in a slow cooker, making it a versatile choice for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 5 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious soup ready in under an hour.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from the beef and fiber from the beans, this soup is both filling and nutritious.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer cooking on the stove or using a slow cooker, this recipe caters to your cooking style.
• Flavorful Seasonings: The mix of taco and ranch seasoning gives this soup its signature flavor that’s sure to please any palate.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

To make Santa Fe Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for browning meat and simmering soups evenly without burning.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables quickly and efficiently.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes cutting onions and garlic easier, saving you time during prep.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

To create this flavorful Santa Fe Soup, gather the following ingredients:

Protein and Vegetables

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Beans and Broth

• 1 (10 ounce) can Rotel
• 1 (16 ounce) can pinto beans, drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained
• 1 (16 ounce) can kidney beans, drained
• 1 can corn kernels, drained
• 2 cups beef broth

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 (1 ounce) pack taco seasoning
• 1 (1 ounce) pack ranch seasoning

How to Make Santa Fe Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Place ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
3. Once browned, drain off any excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

1. Add diced onion to the pot with the browned beef.
2. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic along with salt and pepper; cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add taco seasoning and ranch seasoning to the mixture.
2. Pour in beef broth along with Rotel, pinto beans, black beans, kidney beans, and corn.
3. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

1. Cover the pot with a lid.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it cook for about 30 minutes.

Now your Santa Fe Soup is ready to be enjoyed! Serve hot with toppings like cheese or avocado if desired.

How to Serve Santa Fe Soup

Santa Fe Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spices.
• Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top for a melty, savory finish.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a burst of flavor and brightens the dish.

With Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping and soaking up the soup.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with the hearty flavors of the soup.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Containers: Divide the soup into meal prep containers for easy reheating during busy weekdays.
• Garnishes: Add toppings just before serving to keep them fresh and appealing.

How to Perfect Santa Fe Soup

To make your Santa Fe Soup even more delicious, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making the soup more vibrant.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adding diced jalapeños or chili powder according to your preference.
• Let It Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer for an hour deepens flavors and melds ingredients beautifully.
• Try Different Beans: Experiment with different types of beans or legumes for varied textures and tastes.
• Use Homemade Broth: For an extra depth of flavor, use homemade beef broth instead of store-bought.

Best Side Dishes for Santa Fe Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Santa Fe Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness and pairs perfectly with the spices in the soup.
2. Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips provide a satisfying texture contrast.
3. Mexican Rice: Flavored rice complements the soup’s bold taste and makes it more filling.
4. Salad Verde: A light salad with lime vinaigrette offers freshness alongside the hearty soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice and beans add another layer of flavor.
6. Grilled Veggies: Grilled seasonal vegetables bring a smoky flavor that enhances your meal.
7. Cheesy Quesadillas: Crispy quesadillas stuffed with cheese make for a delightful side that all ages will enjoy.
8. Fried Plantains: Sweet fried plantains add a unique touch that balances out the spiciness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Santa Fe Soup is straightforward, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Not browning the beef properly: This step adds depth of flavor. Ensure the beef is well-browned before adding other ingredients.
• Skipping the seasoning: Seasonings are crucial for taste. Don’t skip the taco and ranch seasoning; they enhance the overall flavor.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking times matter for texture. Follow the suggested cooking times closely to achieve the right consistency.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using subpar ingredients can affect taste. Opt for high-quality canned beans and fresh vegetables for better flavor.
• Not stirring enough: Stirring helps combine flavors. Make sure to stir at least once during cooking to avoid sticking and burning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Santa Fe Soup in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Santa Fe Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Santa Fe Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover. Heat for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Pour soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until hot, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Santa Fe Soup.

How can I customize my Santa Fe Soup?

You can add various vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more nutrition and flavor. Adjusting spices based on your heat preference is also an option.

Can I make Santa Fe Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef first, then combine all ingredients in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Is Santa Fe Soup healthy?

Absolutely! It’s packed with protein from the beans and beef while being low in calories, making it a nutritious choice.

What should I serve with Santa Fe Soup?

Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Can I use turkey instead of beef in this recipe?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute that offers similar texture and flavor while being leaner.

Final Thoughts

Santa Fe Soup is not only hearty and delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, so give it a try and enjoy its rich flavors!