There’s nothing like a big bowl of taco soup to warm you up on a chilly day! This easy, one-pot wonder is loaded with bold Mexican-inspired flavors, tender meat, beans, and just the right amount of spice.
Perfect for busy weeknights or game-day gatherings, this soup is quick to make, endlessly customizable, and always a hit with family and friends.
Recipe Overview
This taco soup is a rich, savory, and slightly smoky dish packed with ground beef, beans, corn, and tomatoes. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, requires minimal prep, and tastes even better the next day. Top it with cheese, avocado, and a dollop of sour cream for the ultimate comfort meal!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need for this flavorful taco soup:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken for a lighter option) – adds rich, meaty flavor.
- 1 small onion, diced – for a sweet, aromatic base.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced – enhances depth of flavor.
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning – the key to that signature taco taste.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed – adds protein and texture.
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained & rinsed – creamy and hearty.
- 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained – brings sweetness and crunch.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles (Rotel) – gives a slight kick.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce – thickens the soup.
- 4 cups beef or chicken broth – balances the richness.
- 1 tsp cumin – adds warm, earthy notes.
- Salt & pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Diced avocado
- Fresh cilantro
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Lime wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Meat – In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
- Sauté Aromatics – Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant (about 3 minutes).
- Season & Simmer – Stir in the taco seasoning and cumin, coating the meat evenly. Pour in the broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beans, and corn. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Adjust & Serve – Taste and add salt or pepper if needed. Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes.
Tips for Success
- For extra flavor, use homemade taco seasoning instead of store-bought.
- Make it vegetarian by swapping beef for extra beans or plant-based crumbles.
- Spice it up with jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving—this helps flavors deepen.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty taco soup with:
- Warm flour tortillas or crispy tortilla chips.
- A side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad.
- A cold beer or a zesty margarita for the full fiesta experience!
Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Keeps well for 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken or ground turkey works great.
Is this soup spicy?
It has mild heat from the taco seasoning and green chiles. Adjust spice levels to taste.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat first, then add everything to the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Conclusion
This taco soup recipe is a guaranteed winner—easy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and watch it become a family favorite! Don’t forget to tag your creations #TacoSoupDelight—we’d love to see your spin on it!
Taco Soup Recipe
There’s nothing like a big bowl of taco soup to warm you up on a chilly day! This easy, one-pot wonder is loaded with bold Mexican-inspired flavors, tender meat, beans, and just the right amount of spice.
Perfect for busy weeknights or game-day gatherings, this soup is quick to make, endlessly customizable, and always a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients
- Here’s what you’ll need for this flavorful taco soup:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken for a lighter option) – adds rich, meaty flavor.
- 1 small onion, diced – for a sweet, aromatic base.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced – enhances depth of flavor.
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning – the key to that signature taco taste.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed – adds protein and texture.
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained & rinsed – creamy and hearty.
- 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained – brings sweetness and crunch.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles (Rotel) – gives a slight kick.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce – thickens the soup.
- 4 cups beef or chicken broth – balances the richness.
- 1 tsp cumin – adds warm, earthy notes.
- Salt & pepper to tasteBrown the Meat – In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
- Sauté Aromatics – Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant (about 3 minutes).
- Season & Simmer – Stir in the taco seasoning and cumin, coating the meat evenly. Pour in the broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beans, and corn. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Adjust & Serve – Taste and add salt or pepper if needed. Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes.
Instructions
- Brown the Meat – In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
- Sauté Aromatics – Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant (about 3 minutes).
- Season & Simmer – Stir in the taco seasoning and cumin, coating the meat evenly. Pour in the broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beans, and corn. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Adjust & Serve – Taste and add salt or pepper if needed. Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes.