This is a great soup to warm up on cold days. It's easy to make, tasty, comforting and satisfying.
2 t. olive oil
1 1/4 lb. ground beef (or ground pork or ground turkey)
1 medium yellow onion, chopped (1 1/2 c.)
2 cloves garlic, minced (2 t.)
1 jalapeno, seeded, finely chopped or 1/3 c. chopped green bell pepper
2 - 14.5 oz. cans diced tomatoes with green chiles
14 oz. can beef broth
8 oz. can tomato sauce
1 T. chili powder
1 t. ground cumin
3/4 t. paprika
1/4 t. dried oregano
1 1/2 T. dry Ranch dressing mix from a packet
salt and pepper, to taste
1 1/2 c. frozen corn
14.5 oz. can black beans, drained and rinsed
14.5 oz. can pinto or great northern beans, drained and rinsed
Topping choices: shredded Mexican blend cheese, sour cream, guacamole, chopped green onions, red onions, diced avocado, corn tortilla strips or chips
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat; grease lightly with oil. Add ground beef and onion, crumbling beef and stirring until browned. Add jalapeno and garlic; saute for 1 minute. Discard excess fat.
Stir in diced tomatoes, broth, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, Ranch dressing mix, salt and pepper. Cover; simmer 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in corn and beans; cook until heated through. Add 1/2 c. water to thin soup, if needed.
Serve hot with desired toppings.
7 servings. (10 1/2 c.)