Looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any time of year? Taco soup is the answer! This delicious dish is a comforting mix of savory ingredients, topped off with a crunchy twist—Frios! Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this taco soup frios recipe is sure to become a favorite. In this post, I’ll guide you through how to make the best taco soup frios, step by step, so you can enjoy a warm, satisfying meal any day of the week.
What is Taco Soup Frios?
Taco soup is a Mexican-inspired dish that’s a hit with many. It’s a one-pot meal that’s filling and full of bold flavors, often made with ground beef, beans, corn, and a variety of seasonings. But what makes Taco Soup Frios unique?
What Are Frios?
Frios are crispy, crunchy pieces of corn snacks, similar to chips but with a distinct texture. Often used in soups and salads for added delightful crunch to the soup when used as a topping. Think of them as a perfect counterpart to the rich, savory soup—a little crunch elevates the entire experience. This simple addition makes your taco soup not just a comfort food, but an unforgettable dish!
Incorporating Frios into your taco soup gives it an exciting, unexpected crunch that makes each bite more enjoyable. When the soup is served, you’ll love the contrast between the creamy soup and the crispy Frios topping.
Key Ingredients for the Best Taco Soup Frios
The secret to making the best taco soup Frios lies in the combination of fresh ingredients and the right seasonings. Here’s what you’ll need:
Taco Seasoning
Taco seasoning is the heart and soul of taco soup. It brings a delicious blend of spices like cumin, chili powder, garlic, and paprika that will make your soup come alive. You can either use a store-bought packet or make your own seasoning mix at home for a more personalized flavor.
Ground Beef or Protein Alternatives
The base of most taco soups is ground beef, but you can easily swap it out with ground turkey, chicken, or even beans for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to brown the meat well to enhance the flavor before adding your seasonings.
Frios and Other Toppings
Frios are the star of this dish, but don’t forget the other popular taco soup toppings! Grated cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro are fantastic choices to balance the soup’s flavors. Some like to add avocado, sliced jalapeños, or even a squeeze of lime to brighten up the soup.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Taco Soup Frios
Ready to make the best taco soup Frios? Let’s break it down step by step.
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, gather and prep your ingredients:
- Dice any vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or garlic.
- Open your cans of beans and corn (drain and rinse the beans if needed).
- Grate your cheese and chop your toppings (cilantro, green onions, etc.).
Step 2: Cooking the Soup
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or your protein of choice) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Add the Vegetables: Add your diced onions and garlic to the pot, cooking until softened and fragrant.
- Season: Sprinkle in your taco seasoning, stirring it into the meat and veggies for about a minute to bring out the spices.
- Add the Liquids: Pour in your broth (beef, chicken, or vegetable) and add the beans, corn, and any other vegetables you like (such as diced tomatoes or chilies). Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.
- Let it Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 20-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the soup is nice and rich.
Step 3: Add the Crunchy Frios
Once your taco soup is ready, it’s time to add the Frios! Just before serving, sprinkle a generous handful of Frios over the top of each bowl of soup. Stir them in slightly if you like, or leave them mostly on top for maximum crunch.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Top your taco soup with the classic garnishes: shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. For extra flavor, you can also add a few slices of avocado or a squeeze of lime juice.
Serve hot and enjoy the ultimate taco soup Frios experience!
Final Thoughts
Taco soup Frios is a comforting, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. The Frios topping adds a delicious crunch that takes your taco soup to the next level. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for an easy and satisfying meal, this recipe will not disappoint. Give it a try and let me know what you think!
Don’t forget to share your taco soup Frios creations with me! What toppings do you add to your taco soup? Drop a comment or tag me on social media. Happy cooking!