Taco Soup

Two weekends ago we went to our buddies house to watch some football. Zach, the host made some amazing taco soup! Maybe I'm crazy, but I had never had that before. I was originally thinking that he meant tortilla soup, but I was pleasantly surprised when I scooped up my bowl. The best way I can describe taco soup, for those of you who don't already know, is that it is like a cross between tortilla soup and chili. Now are you intrigued? :)
Everyone was raving about how yummy his soup was and wanted the recipe, including myself, but I just had to try to make my own before I got it from him; no copying! So here is my take on taco soup.

Taco Soup

1 lb ground turkey (or beef) (My package from the store was actually 1.3 lb)

1 large onion, chopped

1 packet hidden valley ranch dressing mix

1 packet taco seasoning mix

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp cayenne pepper 

1 27 oz can chili beans

1 16 oz can pinto beans

1 16 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed

1 16 oz can corn, whole kernal

1 14 oz can diced tomatoes

1 4 oz can diced green chilies

1 tsp hot sauce

1/2 C hot water

In a large skillet, brown the meat and onions. Add the two mixes and the spices to the meat mixture and combine. In a large, heavy bottom pot, pour in the meat mixture and turn oven on. The only thing that you will drain is the black beans, so it does not make the soup black. Pour everything else, including the juices, in the pot and simmer for about an hour, or until mixed and warm, stirring occasionally. 

This soup is hearty and thick and SO healthy!. You may require more than 1/2 C water, but I found it to be just right. We topped it with cheese and Chris added some crushed up chips to his also. I wish I had some avocado to top mine with; next time! 

Shout out to my girl, Laura, for the request. Love you and let me know what you think!! :)