Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ultimate Cheesy Taco Fiesta Soup?
It is a hearty, thick soup made with ground beef, taco seasoning, ranch beans, and creamy Velveeta cheese, perfect for cold nights or game days.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.
What size Crock-Pot is recommended for this soup?
A 5-quart Crock-Pot is the recommended size for this recipe.
How long does the soup need to cook in the slow cooker?
The soup should be cooked on the low setting for 4 to 5 hours.
Do I need to brown the ground beef before adding it to the Crock-Pot?
Yes, the ground beef and diced onions should be browned in a skillet and drained of excess fat before being added to the slow cooker.
What type of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1.5 pounds of cubed Velveeta cheese for a creamy consistency.
What kind of beans are included in the soup?
The recipe uses two 16-ounce cans of ranch style beans, which should remain undrained.
How many calories are in a single serving?
There are approximately 400 calories per serving.
Should I drain the canned tomatoes and green chilies?
No, the diced tomatoes and the tomatoes with green chilies should be added undrained.
Is the corn used in the recipe drained?
Yes, the 15.5-ounce can of corn should be drained before being added to the mixture.
What type of chili is added to the soup?
The recipe calls for one 16-ounce can of undrained no-bean chili.
What seasonings are used to flavor the soup?
The flavor comes from one packet of taco seasoning and one packet of ranch dressing mix.
How much water is required?
You will need 3 cups of water for the soup base.
What are the nutritional values for protein and fat?
Each serving contains 22.5 grams of protein and 22.5 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in one serving?
There are 31.25 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef if you prefer a leaner meat option.
What garnishes are suggested for this taco soup?
Recommended garnishes include tortilla chips, sour cream, sliced jalapeรฑos, fresh diced onions, shredded cheddar, and salsa.
How do I ensure the cheese is fully incorporated?
Stir the soup well before serving to ensure the melted Velveeta cheese is thoroughly blended into a creamy consistency.
Is this soup considered spicy?
The soup has a zesty flavor from the taco seasoning and green chilies, but the spice level can be adjusted by choosing mild or hot versions of those ingredients.
Is this a good meal for families?
Yes, it is tagged as a family meal and easy dinner, making it a crowd-pleasing option for all ages.
Can this soup be made on the stovetop?
While designed for a Crock-Pot, you could simmer it on the stove over low heat once the beef is browned until the cheese is fully melted.
Does the recipe require salt?
The recipe does not list additional salt, as the canned goods and seasoning packets typically provide sufficient sodium.
What is the preparation for the onion?
The onion should be peeled and diced before being browned with the beef.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 main ingredients in this recipe.
Can I use frozen corn?
Yes, you can substitute a 15-ounce can of corn with approximately 1.5 to 2 cups of frozen corn.
What makes the soup 'fiesta' style?
The combination of corn, taco seasonings, tomatoes with green chilies, and ranch beans gives it a festive Mexican-inspired flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it stores well and the flavors often deepen the next day, making it great for leftovers.
Can I add extra beans to the soup?
Yes, you can add extra beans if you prefer a heartier texture, though it may change the consistency slightly.
Does this recipe include fiber information?
Fiber information is not provided in the current nutritional breakdown.
Can I substitute the Velveeta with shredded cheddar?
Velveeta is used for its superior melting properties; using only shredded cheddar may result in a different, less creamy texture.