If you’ve ever found yourself scrambling for a quick, hearty meal that doesn’t compromise on taste, then a 7-can soup might be your new best friend. This simple, no-fuss recipe is exactly what it sounds like-a comforting bowl of soup made from seven canned ingredients. Not only does it save you time, but it’s also highly customizable to fit your personal taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for something with a bit of spice, extra veggies, or a meaty punch, you can tweak it however you like.

Plus, there’s something so satisfying about tossing a few cans together and creating a meal that feels both homemade and fulfilling. It’s one of those dishes that looks fancy, but in reality, it’s a bit of a kitchen cheat code. No need for extensive prep or hours of simmering-this recipe comes together in no time.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of making this soup, break down the ingredients, give you some expert tips, and explore some variations so you can keep the soup interesting every time you make it. Let’s dive in.

Easy 7 Can Soup Recipe

This soup is the perfect example of how the best recipes often come from simplicity. It’s a one-pot meal that combines pantry staples into a bowl of rich, flavorful goodness. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients Needed

  • 1 can of diced tomatoes – This is your base. The tomatoes provide a rich, tangy flavor that melds beautifully with the other ingredients.
  • 1 can of corn (drained) – Adds a slight sweetness and crunch, balancing the tanginess of the tomatoes.
  • 1 can of kidney beans (drained and rinsed) – These hearty beans are packed with protein and fiber, making your soup more filling.
  • 1 can of black beans (drained and rinsed) – Another layer of texture and a boost of additional protein.
  • 1 can of green beans (drained) – These beans bring in some freshness and a bit of earthiness to the mix.
  • 1 can of chicken broth – This acts as the soup’s liquid base, giving it depth and helping to bring all the ingredients together.
  • 1 can of chili with beans – The star of the dish! This will add spice, flavor, and a bit of extra heartiness.

Cooking Instructions

  1. Prep the Cans: Open all the cans and drain the beans and the corn. No need to rinse the chili, though; you want all those spices to stay in the soup.
  2. Combine the Ingredients: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, combine the diced tomatoes, corn, kidney beans, black beans, green beans, chicken broth, and chili with beans.
  3. Stir and Heat: Stir everything together until it’s well-mixed. Bring the pot to a simmer over medium heat.
  4. Simmer and Stir Occasionally: Let the soup simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will give the flavors time to meld and the soup to heat through.
  5. Taste and Adjust: Once it’s simmered to perfection, taste your soup. If it needs more salt, pepper, or seasoning, feel free to adjust it to your liking.
  6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve it hot. Enjoy it with a side of cornbread or some shredded cheese on top if desired.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s break down some of the ingredients here and why they’re so vital to the success of this soup.

  • Diced Tomatoes: These are more than just a base. Tomatoes provide both acidity and sweetness, which create a balanced flavor profile. They help to lighten up the richness of the beans and the chili, and their natural juices give the soup that comforting, tomato-y vibe.
  • Beans (Kidney, Black, and Chili): Beans are not only full of protein, but they also add texture and bulk. They make the soup hearty and filling without the need for meat, which is especially great for vegetarians or those looking to cut down on meat consumption.
  • Corn: Corn’s natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory elements of the soup. The little pops of corn add a surprising crunch that elevates the texture, and the bright yellow color makes the soup visually appealing.
  • Chili with Beans: This can of chili is like the seasoning and the meat rolled into one. It brings in heat, spice, and a robust flavor. It also adds a bit of extra texture with the included beans.
  • Chicken Broth: The broth is the foundation of your soup’s liquid. Using chicken broth adds a savory, umami flavor that complements the other ingredients. If you’re vegetarian or want a lighter broth, vegetable broth works just as well.

Expert Tips

  • Use Low-Sodium Broth: If you’re trying to reduce your sodium intake, go for a low-sodium chicken broth. The canned ingredients themselves can be quite salty, so using a low-sodium broth will give you more control over the final flavor.
  • Add Fresh Herbs: While this is a canned soup, adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley just before serving can bring a pop of freshness to the dish. A sprinkle of fresh herbs balances the richness and gives the soup a more homemade touch.
  • Top with Sour Cream or Cheese: If you want to take this soup up a notch, add a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, or even a handful of crushed tortilla chips. These toppings will bring a creamy texture and some additional flavor.
  • Stir Occasionally: Keep an eye on the soup while it’s simmering. Stirring occasionally ensures that everything cooks evenly and prevents anything from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Recipe Variations

The beauty of this 7-can soup is how flexible it is. Here are a few ways to change things up and make the soup your own:

  • Add Ground Beef or Chicken: For a more substantial meal, you can add ground beef or shredded chicken. Brown the meat first, then add it to the soup along with the canned ingredients.
  • Swap Out Beans: If you’re not a fan of kidney or black beans, feel free to use any kind of beans you like. Pinto beans, white beans, or even chickpeas would work well here.
  • Add Fresh Vegetables: If you have some fresh vegetables on hand, like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots, feel free to chop them up and throw them in. Just be sure to let them cook for a little while to soften.
  • Make it Spicier: For those who love a good kick, throw in some diced jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper. Spice levels are all about personal preference!
  • Vegetarian Version: Keep it entirely plant-based by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skipping the chili with beans that contains meat. You can always add a little extra seasoning for depth.

Final Words

This 7-can soup is an absolute lifesaver when you need something fast, easy, and flavorful. Whether you’re short on time, cooking for a crowd, or just don’t want to deal with a complicated recipe, this one is perfect. It offers a nice balance of textures, flavors, and comfort, all while being incredibly customizable to your personal tastes and dietary needs.

Plus, it’s a great pantry meal. You can stock up on the ingredients and always have them on hand for a quick fix, especially when the weather turns chilly or you just need a hearty meal after a long day. It’s the kind of recipe that’s just as satisfying for a busy weeknight dinner as it is for a cozy weekend lunch.

Recommended Articles