If you are craving a dish that hits all the right notes—spicy, hearty, and incredibly comforting—look no further than this Taco Soup Recipe. It’s like a fiesta in a bowl, blending savory ground beef, colorful beans, vibrant corn, and just the right touch of spice, all simmered together into a soul-warming delight. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or want something to feed a crowd with minimal fuss, this recipe has a way of turning simple pantry staples into a sensationally satisfying soup that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Taco Soup Recipe on the table is simpler than you might think, thanks to a handful of ingredients that each bring their own magic to the mix. From the protein-packed ground beef to the zesty spices and vibrant vegetables, every component adds flavor, color, and texture to create a truly memorable meal.
- Ground beef (1 lb): The hearty base that makes the soup filling and flavorful—lean ground turkey works well too if you prefer a lighter option.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds natural sweetness and depth of flavor as it sautés and softens.
- Taco seasoning packet (1): A convenient blend of spices bringing that signature taco flavor without any extra work.
- Kidney beans (1 can, drained and rinsed): Adds creamy texture and a boost of protein and fiber.
- Black beans (1 can, drained and rinsed): Extra beans mean extra richness and earthiness in every spoonful.
- Corn (1 can, drained): Sweet kernels that brighten the soup and provide a pleasant pop in each bite.
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies (1 can, 14.5 oz): For a mild kick and juicy tomato flavor; you can swap with regular diced tomatoes if preferred.
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies (1 can, 10 oz): Doubling down on the chili-tomato combo enhances depth and spice.
- Tomato sauce (1 can, 8 oz): Thickens the soup and adds a smooth tomato base.
- Beef broth (2 cups): Or chicken broth helps bring everything together with savory richness.
- Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Boosts the heat and complexity of the soup’s seasoning.
- Cumin (1 teaspoon): A warm, earthy spice that gives the soup an authentic southwestern vibe.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds subtle pungency without overpowering freshness.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the savory notes alongside the fresh onion.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Season carefully to balance all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Taco Soup Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef and Onion
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Toss in your chopped onion and cook just until it softens and becomes fragrant—this step unlocks the natural sweetness of the onion that will marry beautifully with the beef. Next, add your ground beef. Break it apart as it browns, letting it develop a nice caramelized crust that builds flavor. Don’t forget to drain excess fat for a lighter soup—this keeps the texture clean and the broth less oily.
Step 2: Season the Meat
Sprinkle in your taco seasoning, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything well, coating the beef evenly with those spices. This is where the iconic Taco Soup Recipe flavor really begins to take shape—each spice plays its part, layering flavor upon flavor for a bold yet balanced taste.
Step 3: Add Beans, Corn, Tomatoes, and Broth
Pour in your kidney beans, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, and the beef broth. Stir everything together nicely so it’s uniformly combined. Bring your pot to a simmer over medium heat—once those bubbles appear, lower the heat to keep a gentle simmer. This slow melding of ingredients over 15 to 20 minutes is what lets the flavors become rich and unified, turning simple ingredients into a spectacular soup.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasonings
Before you serve, give your soup a little taste test. Sometimes you’ll want a touch more salt, an extra dash of chili powder, or a pinch of pepper to amp up the heat. This step is your chance to personalize the Taco Soup Recipe to your exact liking, ensuring every spoonful hits your comfort-food sweet spot.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the finished soup into bowls, ready for your favorite toppings and garnishes. This is where the fun truly begins—adding your own flair to each serving makes it all the more special.
How to Serve Taco Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Toppings are not just decoration—they bring complementary textures and flavors that elevate every bite. Think shredded cheese melting into the hot soup, a cool dollop of sour cream to tame the spice, crunchy tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch, fresh chopped green onions for brightness, and a few sliced jalapeños if you want an extra kick. These garnishes make the Taco Soup Recipe feel complete and indulgent.
Side Dishes
Pair your soup with warm cornbread, crusty bread, or a simple green salad for a full meal that covers all bases. The bread helps soak up that flavorful broth, while a fresh salad adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, spicy soup. This balance makes the meal wholesome and delightful from start to finish.
Creative Ways to Present
For an unforgettable presentation, serve your soup in hollowed-out bread bowls or individual crock pots during a casual gathering. You can also set up a taco soup bar with all the toppings and sides laid out so everyone can customize their bowls. This interactive approach to your Taco Soup Recipe turns a simple dinner into a fun, social experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with any leftover taco soup, great news—it keeps really well in the fridge! Transfer the soup to an airtight container and store it for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal just as delicious, if not better.
Freezing
Taco Soup Recipe also freezes beautifully for future meals. Let the soup cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. It will keep its quality in the freezer for 3 to 4 months. Just be sure to leave extra space in your containers since the soup will expand as it freezes.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge or rewarm refrigerated leftovers on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally, adding a splash of broth or water if it looks too thick. In minutes, you’ll have a bowl of piping hot, comforting taco soup again, ready to enjoy.
FAQs
Can I make this Taco Soup Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just skip the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead. You can add extra beans or even some diced bell peppers or mushrooms to keep the texture hearty and flavorful. The taco seasoning will still give you that fantastic southwestern kick.
How spicy is this soup?
This Taco Soup Recipe has a moderate spice level that can be adjusted easily. If you want it milder, use less chili powder and skip the jalapeños. For more heat, feel free to add extra chili powder or diced fresh peppers. It’s totally customizable to your tastes.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Fresh tomatoes can work, but you’ll want them ripe and diced finely. Keep in mind that canned tomatoes add a concentrated flavor and convenient consistency that’s tough to replicate with fresh. If using fresh, you might need to cook the soup a bit longer to develop that rich depth.
Is it possible to prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the ground beef and onion first for best flavor, then transfer all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. This method is great for hands-off cooking and lets the flavors meld beautifully.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Most ingredients in this Taco Soup Recipe are naturally gluten-free, but double-check your taco seasoning and broth labels to be sure. Many brands are gluten-free, but some seasonings or broths may contain hidden gluten.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about gathering around a big pot of this Taco Soup Recipe on a chilly evening—comforting, vibrant, and packed with all those familiar southwestern flavors we adore. It’s a dish that’s both easy to make and endlessly satisfying, perfect for busy nights or meal prep. I can’t wait for you to take this recipe for a spin, share it with your loved ones, and make it your own family favorite too.
Print
Taco Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This hearty and flavorful Taco Soup recipe combines ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and a blend of spices to create a delicious, comforting meal perfect for any day of the week. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s an easy one-pot dish ideal for families or meal prepping. Top it off with cheese, sour cream, and crunchy tortilla chips for an authentic taco experience in a bowl.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
Seasonings and Spices
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Beans and Vegetables
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with green chilies, optional)
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
Liquids
- 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Tortilla chips
- Jalapeños
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Season the Beef: Stir in the taco seasoning, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly to ensure the beef is evenly coated with the spices.
- Add the Vegetables and Liquids: Add the kidney beans, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (both cans), tomato sauce, and beef broth to the pot. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, reduce heat to low and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary by adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder according to your preference.
- Serve: Ladle the taco soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, tortilla chips, and jalapeños for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
- For a spicier flavor, add extra jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- If preferred, use homemade taco seasoning to control the sodium and spice levels.
- The soup thickens as it sits, so add extra broth or water if reheating leftovers.
- Vegetarian option: substitute beef with plant-based ground meat and use vegetable broth.
