When you’re in need of a wholesome yet simplified dinner option, the 8 Can Taco Soup stands out as a go-to recipe. Bursting with flavor and loaded with nutrients, this dish combines the best of convenience and taste. You can whip it up in no time and enjoy a warm, satisfying bowl that your whole family will love.
Why We Love This 8 Can Taco Soup Recipe
The beauty of the 8 Can Taco Soup lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a delicious, hearty meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. It’s not only easy to prepare but also budget-friendly. Plus, it’s highly customizable. Whether you’re aiming for a meatier dish or a vegetarian-friendly option, this recipe can adapt to your tastes. The best part is that it only takes about 20 minutes from start to finish!
Ingredients about 8 Can Taco Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to create this scrumptious taco soup:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed
- 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed
- 1 (10 3/4 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (12 ounce) can chicken breast, drained
- 1 (10 ounce) can green enchilada sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons (or 1 packet) taco seasoning
- Olives, sliced (for topping)
- Avocado, diced (for topping)
- Sour cream (for topping)
- Tortilla strips (for topping)
- Lime wedges (for garnish)
How to Make 8 Can Taco Soup Directions
Making your own 8 Can Taco Soup is incredibly straightforward and quick. Let’s dive into the directions to create this mouth-watering dish:
- Start by gathering all your ingredients to make the cooking process seamless. Having everything ready will save you time and make the experience enjoyable.
- Grab a large pot, preferably one that can hold at least 6 quarts, to ensure you have enough space for all the ingredients.
- Begin by pouring in the 1 can of diced tomatoes. This will serve as your soup’s flavorful base.
- Next, add the 1 can of drained corn. The sweetness of the corn balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
- Rinse the can of black beans and then add them to the pot. These beans add texture and an excellent source of protein.
- Then, include the pinto beans, which not only enhance the soup’s consistency but also add more protein and fiber. Make sure to rinse them thoroughly before adding.
- Incorporate the 1 can of cream of chicken soup. This ingredient gives the soup a creaminess that is hard to resist.
- Now it’s time to add the 1 can of drained chicken breast. This ingredient makes your taco soup heartier and more filling.
- Pour in the 1 can of green enchilada sauce. This will infuse the soup with a delightful zest.
- Next, add the 1 can of chicken broth. This forms the liquid base of the soup and helps to meld all the flavors together.
- Now, sprinkle in the taco seasoning. You can use store-bought or prefer to make your own blend. Either way, this spice mix adds the iconic taco flavor you’re after.
- Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Keep an eye on it; you want to avoid it boiling over.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer. Stir occasionally for about 5 minutes to ensure an even texture and flavor.
- After your 5 minutes are up, your soup is ready! Taste it and adjust seasoning if necessary. Some may prefer a little more spice, while others may enjoy it mild.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and get ready for the next step—serving!
How to Serve 8 Can Taco Soup
When it comes to serving your 8 Can Taco Soup, the fun begins with garnishes! This is where you can really personalize your dish. Here are some ideas for serving:
- Bowl It Up: Start by ladling the hot soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has a good amount of the nutritious ingredients.
- Top It Off: Add sliced olives on top for a slight briny contrast that complements the flavors. Diced avocado offers a creamy texture that many love.
- Add Creaminess: A dollop of sour cream on top can give your soup a delightful richness.
- Crunch Factor: Toss in some tortilla strips for extra crunch, turning the soup into a delightful mix of textures.
- Citrus Zest: Finally, add a lime wedge on the side. A squeeze of fresh lime enhances the flavors beautifully.
Feel free to mix and match your toppings based on what you have available or what you like best. This flexibility makes the soup even more enjoyable!
Expert Tips: 8 Can Taco Soup
Creating the perfect bowl of 8 Can Taco Soup involves a few expert tips that can make a big difference:
- Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality canned tomatoes and beans. Opting for no-salt-added versions can also give you control over the soup’s saltiness.
- Adjust the Spice: If you’re a heat lover, consider adding diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to your soup. You can also serve with hot sauce.
- Make It Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use your favorite plant-based protein in place of chicken. This adaption ensures everyone can enjoy it.
- Plan for Leftovers: This soup stores well! Make a big batch and store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add extra spices such as cumin or chili powder for enhanced flavor.
Implementing these expert suggestions can elevate your 8 Can Taco Soup experience from good to great!
How to Store 8 Can Taco Soup
Storing your leftover taco soup is easy and keeps it fresh for your future meals. Here’s how to do it:
- Refrigeration: Allow your soup to cool down to room temperature before transferring it into airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: If you want to extend its shelf life further, freezing is a great option. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers or Ziploc bags, removing as much air as possible.
- Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftover soup, take it out of the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat using a pot on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Using these simple storage techniques ensures your 8 Can Taco Soup stays delicious for days to come!
Variation of 8 Can Taco Soup
There are numerous ways to vary your 8 Can Taco Soup to keep it interesting. Here are some exciting variations to try:
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with extra beans or lentils. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a hearty touch.
- Spicy Taco Soup: If you enjoy heat, add diced green chilies or hot sauce to kick up the spice level.
- Cheesy Taco Soup: Mix in shredded cheese, like sharp cheddar or pepper jack, while cooking. Stir until melted for added creaminess.
- Southwestern Twist: Toss in some corn, diced bell peppers, and even a handful of fresh cilantro for a fresh take on the soup.
- Chili Con Taco Soup: Combine the taco soup with chili spices to create a deeper flavor profile. A dash of cocoa or coffee can also add complexity.
Experimenting with these variations will keep your dinner exciting and introduce new flavors to your family table!
FAQ
What is 8 Can Taco Soup?
8 Can Taco Soup is a quick and easy recipe that features eight kinds of canned ingredients, making it a convenient option for any meal. It’s packed with flavors and nutrients, suitable for everyone.
How can I customize my 8 Can Taco Soup?
Customization options abound! You can add extra vegetables, try different spices, or opt for toppings like cheese, avocado, or sour cream to create a personal twist on the recipe.
How long does it take to make 8 Can Taco Soup?
This soup is remarkably quick to prepare, requiring only about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I use fresh ingredients instead of canned ones?
Absolutely! You can substitute fresh tomatoes, cooked beans, and homemade chicken broth if you prefer to use fresh ingredients. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the freshness.
How do I store leftovers of 8 Can Taco Soup?
Leftover taco soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for later enjoyment. Make sure to allow it to cool before storing.
Can I make 8 Can Taco Soup vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, you can easily make it vegetarian or vegan by substituting the chicken with beans or lentils and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Enjoy the same great taste without the meat!
By following this thorough guide, you’ll be all set to make, serve, and savor the delightful 8 Can Taco Soup. Enjoy creating this delicious dish that is sure to become a family favorite!
8 Can Taco Soup
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 can 15 ounce can diced tomatoes
- 1 can 15 ounce can corn, drained
- 1 can 15 ounce can black beans, rinsed
- 1 can 15 ounce can pinto beans, rinsed
- 1 can 10 3/4 ounce can cream of chicken soup
- 1 can 12 ounce can chicken breast, drained
- 1 can 10 ounce can green enchilada sauce
- 1 can 15 ounce can chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning or 1 packet of taco seasoning
Toppings
- to taste Olives, sliced for topping
- to taste Avocado, diced for topping
- to taste Sour cream for topping
- to taste Tortilla strips for topping
- 1 Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients to make the cooking process seamless.
- Grab a large pot that can hold at least 6 quarts.
Cooking
- Pour in the can of diced tomatoes.
- Add the drained corn.
- Rinse the black beans and add them to the pot.
- Include the pinto beans, rinsed thoroughly.
- Incorporate the cream of chicken soup.
- Add the drained chicken breast.
- Pour in the green enchilada sauce.
- Add the chicken broth.
- Sprinkle in the taco seasoning.
- Place the pot over medium heat and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serving
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
- Top with sliced olives, diced avocado, sour cream, tortilla strips, and lime wedges as desired.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!