Santa Fe Soup
Santa Fe Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish combining ground beef, beans, corn, and tomatoes with bold ranch and taco seasoning. Its savory profile makes it perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a comforting and spicy southwestern-inspired meal that can be easily customized with toppings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours.
- Serve hot, topped with cheese and sour cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider browning the ground chuck with the chopped onion before adding the other ingredients. If you want a spicier kick, use hot Ro-Tel or add chopped jalapeños. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or use canned vegetables for a quicker prep. Fresh cilantro can also enhance the flavor, making it a great addition, similar to what's found in Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream for creaminess. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a hearty meal. For a lighter option, try serving it alongside a fresh salad or browse more recipes like Tex Mex Pasta Salad for a great side dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Santa Fe Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it has thickened. You can also microwave it in a bowl covered with a lid, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Santa Fe Soup contains roughly 792 calories, with 43g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (102% of the Daily Value), protein (86% of the Daily Value), and iron (68% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1006mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the ground chuck and onion first, then combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Can I freeze Santa Fe Soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What can I add to make it vegetarian?
To make Santa Fe Soup vegetarian, simply omit the ground chuck and replace it with a mix of your favorite beans or lentils. You can also add diced vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for extra nutrition. This makes it comparable to other vegan recipes while keeping the flavors vibrant.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).