Can’t stand leftovers? freeze your can taco soup for delicious later
What To Know
- Frozen taco soup is a quick and easy way to have a warm, satisfying meal ready to go.
- Place the frozen soup in a microwave-safe container and defrost on the defrost setting.
- A squeeze of lime juice adds a zesty twist to the soup.
Yes, you can freeze taco soup! This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for meal prepping, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights. By freezing taco soup, you can enjoy its deliciousness even when you’re short on time.
Benefits of Freezing Taco Soup
- Convenience: Frozen taco soup is a quick and easy way to have a warm, satisfying meal ready to go.
- Time-saver: Meal prepping taco soup in advance frees up your time on busy weeknights.
- Portion control: Freezing taco soup in individual containers allows you to control your portions and avoid overeating.
- Reduced waste: Freezing leftovers prevents them from going to waste.
How to Freeze Taco Soup
1. Cool the Soup: Allow the taco soup to cool completely to room temperature.
2. Choose Freezer-Safe Containers: Use airtight containers or freezer-safe bags to store the soup. Leave about an inch of headspace for expansion.
3. Label and Date: Clearly label the containers with the contents and the date they were frozen.
4. Freeze: Place the containers in the freezer and freeze for up to 3 months.
How to Thaw and Reheat Taco Soup
- Thaw in the Refrigerator: The safest way to thaw taco soup is to transfer it to the refrigerator overnight.
- Thaw in the Microwave: Place the frozen soup in a microwave-safe container and defrost on the defrost setting. Stir occasionally to ensure even thawing.
- Reheat on the Stovetop: Transfer the thawed soup to a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through.
Tips for Freezing Taco Soup
- Use a Thicker Broth: The soup will thicken as it freezes, so using a thicker broth will prevent it from becoming too watery when thawed.
- Omit the Toppings: Toppings like cheese, sour cream, and avocado will not freeze well. Add them fresh when reheating the soup.
- Don’t Overfill the Containers: Leave about an inch of headspace in the containers to allow for expansion.
- Freeze Individual Servings: If you meal prep for the week, consider freezing individual portions of taco soup for easy lunches or dinners.
Variations and Additions
- Add Beans: Black beans or kidney beans add extra protein and fiber to the soup.
- Stir in Corn: For a touch of sweetness, add some canned or frozen corn.
- Top with Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright and flavorful touch to the soup.
- Garnish with Lime: A squeeze of lime juice adds a zesty twist to the soup.
Taco Soup Freezer Meal Idea
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 (1.25 ounce) packet taco seasoning
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup uncooked rice
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet. Drain off any excess fat.
2. Add the onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the black beans, kidney beans, tomatoes, taco seasoning, and beef broth.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Stir in the rice and cook until tender, about 20 minutes.
6. Let the soup cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I freeze taco soup with toppings?
A: No, it is best to omit toppings like cheese, sour cream, and avocado before freezing. Add them fresh when reheating the soup.
Q: How long can I freeze taco soup for?
A: Taco soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I double the recipe for freezing?
A: Yes, you can double or even triple the recipe to have more frozen meals on hand. Just be sure to use larger freezer-safe containers.
