Santa Fe Soup

This Santa Fe Soup is the perfect blend of hearty ingredients and vibrant flavors. Ideal for cozy nights or casual gatherings, this soup provides a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare. Its combination of beans and ground beef makes it filling, while the spices add a delightful kick. Whether you’re serving it as a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this Santa Fe Soup will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a delicious homemade soup without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of spices and beans creates a rich flavor that warms you up from the inside out.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it an excellent option for meal prep throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: With its mild heat and satisfying ingredients, this soup appeals to both adults and children alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Santa Fe Soup, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: This tool allows for even cooking and provides enough space to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring your ingredients blend nicely.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best flavor in your soup.

Ingredients

To create this hearty Santa Fe Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

For Flavor and Texture

• 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

For Seasoning

• 1 1 ounce pack taco seasoning
• 1 1 ounce pack ranch seasoning

For Liquid

• 2 cups beef broth

How to Make Santa Fe Soup

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by placing the ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the beef until fully cooked. Once browned, drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add diced onions to the pot with the browned beef. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until onions become translucent. Then add minced garlic along with salt and pepper. Sauté for another 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Stir in taco seasoning, ranch seasoning, beef broth, Rotel, pinto beans, black beans, kidney beans, and corn. Mix everything well until combined.

Step 4: Simmer

Cover the pot with a lid and reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes so all flavors meld together beautifully.

Enjoy your Santa Fe Soup hot with toppings like shredded cheese or avocado if desired!

How to Serve Santa Fe Soup

Santa Fe Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Top with Fresh Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness and flavor.
• Sour Cream: A creamy contrast that enhances the soup’s richness.
• Shredded Cheese: Melts beautifully on top for added creaminess.
• Sliced Avocado: Provides a creamy texture and healthy fats.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty French Bread: Perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Breadsticks: A flavorful accompaniment that complements the dish.
• Cornbread Muffins: Adds a sweet touch that pairs well with the savory flavors.

Serve with Salad

• Garden Salad: Lightens up the meal with fresh veggies and dressing.
• Caesar Salad: Offers a classic taste that balances the hearty soup.

How to Perfect Santa Fe Soup

Creating the perfect Santa Fe Soup is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and vegetables for more vibrant flavors.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go and add salt or spices based on your preference.
• Cook Low and Slow: Allowing the soup to simmer deepens its flavors.
• Experiment with Beans: Try different beans like black-eyed peas or chickpeas for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Santa Fe Soup

Round out your meal with delicious side dishes that complement Santa Fe Soup perfectly. Here are some great options:

1. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that adds richness; serve with tortilla chips.
2. Mexican Rice: Flavored rice dish that balances the soup’s heartiness; consider adding lime juice for zest.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Charred seasonal veggies offer a smoky flavor; season lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Quesadillas: Cheesy tortillas filled with veggies or chicken make a satisfying side; serve warm and cut into wedges.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy salad that provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
6. Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa adds brightness; use it as a topping or side for extra flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Santa Fe Soup can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Neglecting the browning process: Skipping the step of browning the ground beef can lead to less flavor in your soup. Always take the time to brown the meat for a richer taste.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking the onions and garlic too long can make them mushy. Aim for a tender yet crisp texture by cooking just until they soften.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Each brand of broth and canned goods varies in saltiness. Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasonings as needed for the perfect balance.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale spices or old canned items can affect flavor. Always check your ingredients before you start cooking to ensure freshness.
• Skipping the simmering: Rushing through the cooking process might not allow flavors to meld properly. Let your soup simmer to enhance all those delicious tastes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in containers.

Freezing Santa Fe Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy identification later.

Reheating Santa Fe Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until hot throughout, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, stirring occasionally until warmed through, usually 5-7 minutes.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through, about 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 more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients. Adjust spices according to your taste preference or add toppings like avocado or cheese.

Can I use other meats besides beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great alternative if you prefer leaner options while still enjoying that hearty texture.

What is the best way to serve Santa Fe Soup?

Serve it hot with tortilla chips on the side or topped with fresh cilantro and avocado slices for added flavor and presentation.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version of Santa Fe Soup.

How long does it take to make Santa Fe Soup?

Preparation takes about 5 minutes, and cooking time is around 35 minutes. In total, you’ll spend about 40 minutes from start to finish.

Final Thoughts

Santa Fe Soup is a hearty and versatile dish that makes any meal satisfying. It’s easy to customize based on what you have at home, whether you’re adding extra beans or spices. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its rich flavors!