Ranch Taco Soup Recipe

Name: Ranch Taco Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced; 2.5 cups water; 2 (15 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes; 2 (15 ounce) cans pinto beans, drained; 1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained; 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chiles (such as RO*TEL®); 1 (3.8 ounce) can sliced black olives, drained; 2 tablespoons ranch dressing mix (such as Hidden Valley Ranch®); 1 (1 ounce) envelope taco seasoning mix

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
2 cups water
2 (15 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
2 (15 ounce) cans pinto beans, drained
1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chiles (such as RO*TEL)
1 (3.8 ounce) can sliced black olives, drained
2 tablespoons ranch dressing mix (such as Hidden Valley Ranch)
1 (1 ounce) envelope taco seasoning mix

Directions

Step 1: In a 4-quart soup pot, combine ground beef, onion, and jalapeo. Cook over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, or until the beef is browned and no longer pink.

Step 2: Add water, crushed tomatoes, pinto beans, corn, black beans, RO*TEL, black olives, ranch dressing mix, and taco seasoning. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 3: Bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure everything is well mixed and heated through.

Recipe Tip

This recipe also works great with chicken instead of beef, if you prefer.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	342
Total Fat	10g (13% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	3g (16% Daily Value)
Cholesterol	40mg (13% Daily Value)
Sodium	1398mg (61% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate	45g (16% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	11g (40% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	3g
Protein	22g (43% Daily Value)
Vitamin C	16mg (18% Daily Value)
Calcium	119mg (9% Daily Value)
Iron	5mg (30% Daily Value)
Potassium	937mg (20% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Ranch Taco Soup Recipe

This delightful Ranch Taco Soup combines the flavors of taco seasoning, ranch dressing mix, and hearty ingredients like beans, tomatoes, and corn. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, offering both a comforting and filling meal.

Origin of Ranch Taco Soup

Ranch Taco Soup is a relatively modern American dish, popularized by the combination of two beloved flavors: ranch dressing and taco seasoning. The origins of the soup can be traced to the fusion of traditional Tex-Mex flavors with the ease of modern convenience foods, including ranch dressing mixes and canned vegetables. While its unclear who first invented the soup, it became a household favorite in the 1990s, thanks in part to ranch dressings growing popularity across the United States.

Regional Variations of Taco Soup

In the southwestern United States, particularly in Texas and Arizona, taco soup is a staple comfort food. Regional variations may include different types of beans, meats, or additional spices such as cumin, cilantro, or chipotle peppers. Some areas even use cream cheese or shredded cheese to give the soup a creamy texture, while others may serve it with tortilla chips or sour cream for added flavor. The Ranch Taco Soup version, with its signature ranch dressing mix, adds a creamy tanginess that sets it apart from other regional taco soups.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Compared to traditional taco soup, Ranch Taco Soup stands out due to the inclusion of ranch dressing mix, which provides a creamy and tangy flavor profile not commonly found in other taco soups. While taco soups generally include ingredients like ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and taco seasoning, Ranch Taco Soup incorporates a distinctive twist with the ranch mix and black olives, giving it a richer, more indulgent taste. Additionally, while many taco soups are broth-based, Ranch Taco Soup often has a heartier texture thanks to the beans and vegetables, making it a filling meal on its own.

Where Its Typically Served

Ranch Taco Soup is a popular dish served in casual dining settings, often appearing at family dinners, potlucks, and gatherings. Its commonly enjoyed during the colder months due to its hearty nature, making it perfect for cozy winter nights. This soup can also be served at Tex-Mex restaurants, often alongside cornbread, tortilla chips, or a side salad. Due to its customizable nature, its also frequently prepared at home, with variations to suit dietary preferences and family tastes.

Interesting Facts About Ranch Taco Soup

Did you know that Ranch Taco Soup is often made in large batches, making it an excellent option for meal prepping or feeding a crowd? The soup is known for its versatility, allowing cooks to substitute ingredients based on what they have on hand. For example, ground turkey can replace ground beef, or chicken broth can replace water for a richer flavor. Its also a popular choice for individuals looking for a quick and satisfying dinner, as it can be made in under 45 minutes. Interestingly, the dish's combination of beans, vegetables, and spices provides a balance of proteins, fiber, and vitamins, making it a relatively healthy meal option.

Conclusion

Ranch Taco Soup is a beloved dish that offers a comforting, flavorful meal with minimal effort. Whether youre cooking for a family dinner or preparing for a social gathering, this hearty soup is sure to satisfy. Its creamy texture, combined with the bold flavors of ranch and taco seasoning, makes it an irresistible choice for any occasion.

FAQ about Ranch Taco Soup Recipe

Ranch Taco Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, ensure the soup is heated thoroughly before serving.

Yes, this soup can be made a day ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Just be sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef if you prefer a leaner option. The soup will still be delicious and flavorful with either of these alternatives.

Yes, you can adjust the spice level by using more or fewer jalapenos, or omitting them entirely if you prefer a milder soup. You can also swap the taco seasoning for a mild version to reduce the heat.

Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and using a plant-based protein or just adding more beans (such as black beans or kidney beans). You can also use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.

Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

Ranch Taco Soup is delicious when paired with a variety of sides. You can serve it with tortilla chips, shredded cheese, sour cream, or a fresh lime wedge. It also goes great with cornbread or a simple side salad.

Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the onions and jalapenos first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the rest of the ingredients. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Stir before serving.

You can substitute dried beans, but they must be cooked beforehand. Dried beans will need to be soaked and simmered until tender before adding them to the soup. Canned beans are much quicker, so they are often preferred for convenience.

If you don't have ranch dressing mix, you can substitute with a homemade blend of dried herbs such as parsley, dill, onion powder, garlic powder, and a little salt and pepper. This will give a similar flavor to the ranch mix.

Comments

Jay

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

I made it a second time. It is excellent.

Eric

01/25/2022 07:28:35 PM

I made this soup, with the following changes: - ground turkey instead of beef - eliminated the black olives - used 2 fresh jalapenos instead of one - added 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper - added an additional cup of water Simmered it longer and it turned out so delicious. Garnished with sour cream, crumbled tortilla chips and a little shredded cheddar cheese. Paired it with my wife's fresh-baked jalapeno cheddar bread. Awesome.

Kelsie Elizabeth Miera

03/20/2021 12:17:54 AM

Second time I’ve made this recipe and absolutely love it! I always have to double it because it so good! I add fresh garlic at the begin and sauté the onions briefly before adding the beef. I also replace the pinto beans with kidney beans. I don’t add the jalapeños at all because I’m usually cooking for people who can’t really handle too much spice.

CopperYak2141

09/09/2023 11:34:56 PM

It was purdy good,I did substitute dark kidney beans for black beans (don’t care for black beans) & added 1/8 cup of crushed garlic (cause I really like garlic) 😉 & tried a li’l mozzarella cheese on top 😋😋😋 oh yeah used frozen corn instead of canned,I like the taste of frozen better than canned.

Archer's Grams

09/04/2023 09:00:59 PM

This was an excellent soup recipe and very adaptable for individual preferences. We substituted beef bone broth for the water, added one Tbsp of lemon juice and 1 tsp. of garlic powder to give it a little zing, served the jalapenos on the side; will make again.

FrothySpice1152

01/25/2025 06:03:37 AM

I used veggie broth and cooked and shredded chicken thighs and breast (about 2.5 lbs). No black olives. Cut up avocado, white onion, sliced limes and had tortilla strips, sour cream and shredded cheese to garnish. Oh, and I added frozen corn instead of canned (just a personal preference) and fresh bell pepper...green, orange and red. I love colors. I brought to a chili party for those who may not eat beef. Winner winner ranch chicken taco soup dinner...lol

sidneyanne

04/07/2020 04:00:22 AM

This is a favorite of mine. I am not a big olive fan, so I don’t know about those, but I have a batch of this in the frig right now. I found pork stew meat half price so I used that. I used a can of hominy instead of the pinto beans. I’ve made this many times over the years. The combination of seasoning packets and Rotel make the flavor great and you can switch up the meats and veggies depending on what you have. It’s always good, especially with Fritos.

Jeannie

10/17/2021 06:04:33 PM

It was great! I served it with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream and crushed tortilla chips on top and my family loved it!

A Badkitty

10/25/2020 03:03:11 AM

Tasty but Sodium level was too excessive. I made it using *Low Sodium Beans, No Sodium stock or broth, omitted the olives (which don’t sound appealing in soup anyhow) and only used about 1/2 to 3/4 of Taco seasoning package (to taste). Big improvement in the salt content! Cilantro was added just before serving. Served with fresh Lime wedges, hot sauce on the side. Garnished with dollop of sour cream and sprinkle of grated tangy cheese. Avocado is also great! It was so tasty we had seconds and I ate the rest for breakfast next day! Yum.

Samira Florence

04/23/2020 10:40:07 PM

Great recipe! Use your imagination to make it more your taste or add/delete flavor! I added sour cream topping with fresh cilantro and cooked and shredded my own chicken breasts instead of hamburger! Only missing avacado! Thanks for the great base!

The Broz

08/27/2020 09:00:32 PM

After cooking a chicken breast (sous vide), I cut it up and replaced the ground beef in the recipe. Everyone loved the soup. I thought it was good, but I think beef would be better.

LadyKeena

09/08/2025 05:28:56 PM

Trèsparfait

Ktskipper

06/09/2025 02:52:48 PM

Perfect on the first try!! So excited to be able to make these!

Daniel Thomas

03/28/2025 03:37:06 PM

Bro, I can’t even — tastes too good.

Zen

02/22/2025 02:16:41 AM

I like this recipe! I made a few modifications but it turned out really good!

Mary Taylor

02/01/2025 07:32:13 PM

I could eat this every day.

HappyPeas2261

01/25/2025 06:31:13 PM

Loved this soup. So easy and delicious. It lasted several nights for our family.

Thomas Davis

01/23/2025 04:29:42 PM

So simple, yet so damn tasty.

BraveNori4054

01/17/2025 05:58:02 PM

Amazing soup, so quick & easy. I exchanged chicken broth for water & omitted olives and jalapeños. DELICIOUS MEAL served with cornbread, corn chips or crackers with sour cream & cheese on top!

Erik Kozman

12/06/2024 01:51:45 AM

Great dish! You can control the heat of this dish, so it’s good for all. Thanks for recipe!

audio version

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Ranch Taco Soup Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

Recipe Tip

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Origin of Ranch Taco Soup

Regional Variations of Taco Soup

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Where Its Typically Served

Interesting Facts About Ranch Taco Soup

Conclusion

FAQ about Ranch Taco Soup Recipe