taco soup

hands-down easiest dinner. makes a ton, and freezable! i like ground turkey for a healthier option, but ground beef works too. this recipe can be adapted to your flavor/spice preferences. do not drain any of the cans, this makes the "soup", but I recommend 'low-sodium' options.

using a large crock pot, or stock pot, add the following:
2 cans diced tomatoes
1 can whole kernel corn
1 can pinto beans
1 can red kidney beans
1 can white beans
1 can ranch beans (pinto with flavoring @ FM)
1/2 packet of dry ranch mix
1 tbsp taco season
1 sm onion diced

in a saucepan on the stove:
brown 1lb ground turkey
add 2 cloves crushed garlic and saute until meat is fully cooked.

add meat/garlic to the beans. add crushed chili flakes and chili poweder if using. Cook on a simmer for 2-3 hrs.

best served with cheddar, sour cream and tortilla chips. also great served over a baked potato with cheese, sour cream and chives.

another tip: add finely shredded carrots and/or zucchini and wheat germ for added nutritional value.