This simplified recipe for 7-Can Taco Soup is a hearty, minimal-prep meal popular for its convenience and speed. It offers a savory, satisfying dinner that relies almost entirely on pantry staples, making it an ideal solution for busy weeknights. The “dump-and-go” nature of this recipe minimizes cleanup. The process involves combining various ready-to-eat canned goods and heating them together to meld the flavors.
The 7 Essential Cans
The foundation of this quick meal rests on a combination of specific canned ingredients. The base requires one 15-ounce can of black beans and one 15-ounce can of pinto beans. The liquid base comes from one 14-ounce can of chicken broth and one 10-ounce can of tomatoes and green chilies, which adds subtle heat and acidity.
The remaining three cans include one 15-ounce can of chili beans, which provides a rich, seasoned liquid, and one 15-ounce can of diced tomatoes. One 15-ounce can of whole kernel corn adds sweetness and textural contrast. The only non-canned components required are a standard packet of taco seasoning and a packet of dry ranch seasoning mix.
Step-by-Step Assembly
Preparing this soup involves rapid assembly followed by a brief simmer. Start by rinsing the black beans and pinto beans thoroughly under cool water to remove excess sodium and starchy liquid. Do not rinse the chili beans, as their surrounding sauce is important for the flavor profile.
Combine the rinsed beans in a large soup pot or Dutch oven with the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, tomatoes and green chilies, corn, and chili beans. Add the corn and diced tomatoes directly with their canning liquid to contribute to the soup’s volume. Stir the mixture well before adding the two seasoning packets.
Introduce the entire packet of taco seasoning and the entire packet of dry ranch seasoning mix, stirring until the spices are fully dissolved. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Immediately reduce the heat to a low setting to maintain a slow, consistent simmer.
Allow the soup to simmer for a minimum of 15 to 20 minutes to fully hydrate the seasonings and merge the flavors. Simmering for up to 30 minutes will further deepen the savory notes. Stir the soup occasionally during this period to prevent sticking and ensure uniform heating.
Quick Serving Suggestions
The enjoyment of 7-Can Taco Soup is enhanced by quick additions incorporated just before serving. To enhance the creamy texture, a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt can be swirled into the hot broth, adding a balancing tang. Shredded Monterey Jack or sharp cheddar cheese melts quickly into the soup, contributing a rich, salty layer.
A sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or thinly sliced green onions provides a bright contrast. Crunch is introduced by crushing a handful of tortilla chips or corn chips over the top of the bowl. If the soup is prepared ahead of time, it stores well; cool the leftovers completely before transferring them to an airtight container and refrigerating for up to four days.