perfect taco soup

This is my favorite soup. It's perfect. It's everything a soup should be... easy, cheap to make, delicious, and can be ready in an hour on the stove - or left all day in the crock pot. I make it year-round, and I've never met anyone who doesn't love it!

  

I got this recipe from a dear woman, and I always think of her when I make it. I've adapted it over the years, but it's still simply wonderful.

  

Taco Soup

1 lb. ground beef

1/2 onion (chopped)

1 red pepper (chopped)

1 packet taco seasoning (I use 2 TB homemade taco seasoning)

1 packet dry Ranch dressing mix

1 can black beans (do not drain)

1 can pinto beans (do not drain)

2 cans fire-roasted tomatoes (do not drain)

1 can corn (do not drain)

Sour cream and shredded cheese for serving (optional)

THREE SIMPLE STEPS:

1. Brown the beef with the onion and pepper. Drain and pour into a large soup pot OR a crock pot.

2. Add both seasonings and all of the canned vegetables. Remember, do NOT drain the cans!

3. Mix it up and let it simmer for 1 hour in a soup pot OR leave it on low in a crock pot. DONE! (gorgeous, huh?)

-- Don't worry, there will be plenty of liquid! -- ENJOY!