This is a recipe I got from a good friend (who liked it hot and spicy!), and the chili quickly became a regular feature at our family’s table, as well (albeit somewhat milder for the kids sake!), due to it’s ease in making, and it’s good all-around taste.

Taco Soup

1 lb. ground beef or turkey
1/2 onion, chopped
garlic, cloves or powder, to taste
salt and pepper to taste
2 – 15oz cans beans (eg. pinto, kidney…)
2 – 8oz can tomato sauce
1 – 15oz can diced tomatoes
1 – 15oz can corn (optional)
1 1/2 Tbsp. ground cumin, or to taste (1-2 tsp if you like it mild, or omit)
1 1/2 Tbsp. chili powder, or to taste (1-2 tsp if you like it milder)

Toppings:
grated cheese, tortilla chips, sour cream

Brown ground beef with chopped onions.  When browned and tender, add beans (undrained), tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, corn (undrained) and spices to taste.  Heat, and serve with grated cheese, broken tortilla chips, and sour cream (opt) on top.

Chili: Omit diced tomatoes, use only 1 can tomato sauce, and partially drain beans, or simmer to reduce liquid. Adjust spices to taste (I usually leave out the cumin, and reduce chili). Corn can be omitted.

Chili Ingredients
Chili Ingredients

Chili
Finished Chili

Note: For really quick and easy, use dehydrated onions and garlic powder. This is a meal your kids can make, if they’re old enough to brown ground meat and use a can opener!