Taco Soup Recipe

Taco soup has become a staple in our household, especially on those chilly evenings when comfort food is a must. There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm bowl of this hearty soup, brimming with all the delicious flavors of tacos but in an easy-to-eat, spoonable form. My kids, who can sometimes be picky eaters, devour it without complaint, and my husband always asks for seconds. What I love most is how incredibly versatile and simple it is to make. It’s the perfect weeknight meal because it’s quick to throw together, mostly uses pantry staples, and delivers big on flavor. Over the years, I’ve tweaked this recipe to perfection, and it’s now my go-to whenever I need a crowd-pleasing, comforting, and fuss-free dinner. This recipe is not just about throwing ingredients into a pot; it’s about creating a symphony of textures and tastes that sing together in every spoonful. From the savory ground beef to the sweet corn, the hearty beans, and the zesty taco seasoning, each component plays a crucial role in making this taco soup truly exceptional. And the best part? It’s endlessly customizable, allowing you to adjust it to your family’s preferences and dietary needs. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking this fantastic Taco Soup!

Ingredients for the Perfect Taco Soup

This taco soup recipe is all about layering flavors and textures, and the ingredients are the foundation of this delicious dish. Let’s break down each component and understand why they are essential and how you can adapt them to your liking.

For the Base:

• 1 lb (450 g) Ground Beef (or Ground Turkey): The heart of our taco soup starts with a good quality protein. Ground beef provides a rich, savory base that is classically taco-like. Using a leaner ground beef, like 90% lean, helps minimize excess grease in your soup. However, ground turkey is an excellent, healthier alternative that still delivers great flavor but with less fat. If you’re using ground turkey, you might want to add a tablespoon of olive oil when browning to enhance its richness. For a vegetarian or vegan version, consider using plant-based crumbles or even lentils for a protein-packed and equally delicious soup. The key here is to choose a protein that will hold up in the soup and contribute to its overall hearty character.
• 1 Medium Onion, Chopped: Onions are aromatic powerhouses and are crucial for building flavor in almost any soup or stew. When sautéed, onions become sweet and mellow, creating a foundational layer of taste. Yellow or white onions work best for their mild flavor that complements the other ingredients without overpowering them. Make sure to chop the onion into uniform pieces so they cook evenly and soften nicely. If you’re not a fan of chopped onions, you can finely dice them or even grate them to almost disappear into the soup while still imparting their flavor.
• 1 (14.5 oz) Can Diced Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes provide acidity, sweetness, and moisture to the soup. They are a cornerstone of taco flavor and add a vibrant freshness. Using canned diced tomatoes is incredibly convenient and ensures consistent quality and taste year-round. You can use regular diced tomatoes or fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a slightly smoky depth. For an even richer tomato flavor, consider using crushed tomatoes or tomato puree as a partial substitute, but adjust the liquid accordingly as these are thicker.
• 1 (10 oz) Can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (such as Rotel): Here’s where we kick up the heat and add another layer of flavor complexity! Diced tomatoes with green chilies, like Rotel, introduce a mild to medium spice level along with the bright, tangy flavor of green chilies. The level of heat can vary depending on the brand and variety you choose (mild, original, hot). If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a mild version or even half a can and taste as you go. For those who love extra heat, you can certainly use a hotter version or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to further intensify the spice. If you can’t find diced tomatoes with green chilies, you can substitute with regular diced tomatoes and a small can of chopped green chilies, adjusting the amount to your spice preference.
• 1 (15 oz) Can Black Beans, Drained and Rinsed: Beans are essential for adding heartiness, texture, and nutritional value to taco soup. Black beans are a classic choice for their earthy flavor and creamy texture when cooked. Draining and rinsing the beans is crucial to remove excess sodium and the starchy liquid that can make the soup cloudy. If you prefer other types of beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, or even cannellini beans would work wonderfully. A mix of different beans can also add a fun variety of textures and flavors.
• 1 (15 oz) Can Kidney Beans, Drained and Rinsed: Kidney beans bring another layer of creaminess and a slightly sweeter, more robust flavor compared to black beans. Their larger size and softer texture contribute to the overall satisfying feel of the soup. Just like with black beans, draining and rinsing is important. You can use light or dark kidney beans depending on your preference. If you’re not a fan of kidney beans, you can easily substitute with more black beans or pinto beans to maintain the bean component of the soup.
• 1 (15 oz) Can Corn, Drained: Sweet corn kernels add a delightful pop of sweetness and a contrasting texture to the savory and slightly spicy soup. Canned corn is convenient and works perfectly in this recipe. Make sure to drain it well to avoid adding excess liquid to the soup. You can use regular canned corn or fire-roasted corn for a smoky twist. Frozen corn is also a great option; just thaw it slightly before adding it to the soup. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using grilled corn kernels for an even deeper, smoky flavor in your taco soup.
• 1 (8 oz) Can Tomato Sauce: Tomato sauce acts as a binder and thickener for the soup, contributing to its rich, tomatoey base. It deepens the tomato flavor and adds a smooth consistency. Using tomato sauce in addition to diced tomatoes creates a more complex and layered tomato profile. If you don’t have tomato sauce, you can use tomato puree, but it is thicker, so you might need to add a bit more broth to reach the desired consistency.
• 1 Packet (1 oz) Taco Seasoning: Taco seasoning is the magic ingredient that infuses the soup with that quintessential taco flavor. Most store-bought taco seasoning packets are a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. You can use your favorite brand or even make your own homemade taco seasoning to control the ingredients and spice level. Adjust the amount of taco seasoning to your taste preference. For a milder flavor, start with a little less and add more as needed. For a spicier soup, you can use a spicier taco seasoning blend or add extra chili powder.
• 1 Packet (1 oz) Ranch Dressing Mix (optional, for added flavor): Ranch dressing mix might seem like an unexpected addition to taco soup, but it adds a creamy, tangy, and herby depth of flavor that complements the taco seasoning beautifully. It’s an optional ingredient, but it really elevates the flavor profile and adds a unique twist. If you’re not a fan of ranch or prefer a more traditional taco soup flavor, you can omit it without significantly altering the recipe. For a similar creamy tang, you could consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a splash of lime juice at the end instead.
• 2 Cups Beef Broth (or Chicken Broth): Broth is the liquid base of our soup, bringing all the ingredients together and creating the desired consistency. Beef broth enhances the savory beef flavor of the soup and is generally recommended for taco soup. However, chicken broth is a perfectly acceptable and lighter alternative. Vegetable broth can also be used for a vegetarian version. Low-sodium broth is always a good choice to control the salt content, and you can adjust the salt later to taste. You might need to add more or less broth depending on your desired soup consistency. If you prefer a thicker soup, start with less broth and add more as needed. For a thinner soup, add a bit more broth or even water.
• Salt and Pepper, to Taste: Seasoning is crucial for bringing out the best flavors in any dish. Salt enhances the savory notes and balances the flavors, while pepper adds a subtle warmth and complexity. Always season to taste, especially at the end of cooking. Start with a little salt and pepper, taste the soup, and add more as needed until the flavors are well-balanced and delicious. Keep in mind that taco seasoning and ranch dressing mix already contain salt, so taste before adding too much extra salt.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Delicious Taco Soup

Making taco soup is incredibly easy and straightforward. Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef – Laying the Flavor Foundation

1. Heat a Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Start by placing a large pot or Dutch oven on your stovetop over medium heat. A heavy-bottomed pot like a Dutch oven distributes heat evenly, which is ideal for browning meat and simmering soup.
2. Add Ground Beef: Add the ground beef (or ground turkey) to the hot pot. Break it apart with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Spreading the meat out in a single layer helps it brown more evenly rather than steam.
3. Cook Until Browned: Cook the ground beef, stirring occasionally, until it is no longer pink and has browned nicely. Browning the beef is crucial as it develops deeper, richer flavors that will infuse into the soup. This process usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add Chopped Onion: Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion to the pot. The moisture from the onion will help deglaze the pot, lifting any flavorful browned bits from the bottom.
5. Cook Onion Until Softened: Cook the onion with the ground beef, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes softened and translucent. This usually takes about 5 minutes. The onions will become fragrant and slightly sweet as they cook, adding another layer of flavor to the base of the soup.
6. Drain Excess Fat (if necessary): If you used a higher fat content ground beef, you might have excess fat in the pot. Tilt the pot and carefully spoon out or drain off the excess fat. Leaving too much fat can make the soup greasy. If you used leaner ground beef or ground turkey, you might not need to drain any fat.

Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients – Building the Soup

1. Stir in Canned Tomatoes: Add the can of diced tomatoes and the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel) to the pot. Stir them in to combine with the ground beef and onions.
2. Add Beans and Corn: Add the drained and rinsed black beans, drained and rinsed kidney beans, and drained corn to the pot. These ingredients add heartiness, texture, and nutritional value to the soup.
3. Pour in Tomato Sauce and Broth: Add the can of tomato sauce and the beef broth (or chicken broth) to the pot. These liquids will form the base of the soup and bring all the ingredients together.
4. Season with Taco and Ranch Mixes: Sprinkle in the packet of taco seasoning and the packet of ranch dressing mix (if using). Stir well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the soup. These seasoning mixes will infuse the soup with classic taco flavors and a touch of creamy tang.
5. Mix Well: Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly to ensure everything is well combined and the seasonings are dispersed.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup – Developing Flavors

1. Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the soup to a boil. Boiling helps to meld the flavors together quickly.
2. Reduce Heat to Low: Once the soup is boiling, reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Simmering allows the flavors to deepen and develop over time without burning or scorching the soup.
3. Cover and Simmer: Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stirring prevents the soup from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensures even cooking. Simmering for at least 20 minutes is important to allow the flavors to fully meld and for the soup to thicken slightly. For an even richer flavor, you can simmer it for longer, up to an hour. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will deepen and become complex.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning and Serve – Final Touches

1. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: After simmering for 20-30 minutes, taste the soup. This is the crucial step to ensure the flavors are perfectly balanced.
2. Add Salt and Pepper (if needed): Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Start with a small amount and add more gradually, tasting after each addition. Remember that the taco seasoning and ranch mix already contain salt, so you might not need much additional salt. Pepper adds a subtle warmth and depth, so adjust it to your preference.
3. Ladle into Bowls: Once the seasoning is perfect, ladle the hot taco soup into bowls.
4. Add Your Favorite Toppings: Now comes the fun part – topping your taco soup! Encourage everyone to customize their bowls with their favorite toppings. See the “How to Serve” section below for topping ideas.
5. Serve Immediately: Serve the taco soup immediately while it’s hot and flavorful, garnished with your chosen toppings. Enjoy your delicious and comforting homemade taco soup!

Nutrition Facts (Estimated)

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Servings: Approximately 6 servings

Estimated Calories per Serving: Around 350-450 calories

This is a rough estimate, and the exact calorie count will depend on factors such as the leaness of the ground beef, the specific brands of canned goods used, and the portion size.

Key Nutritional Highlights (per serving, approximate):

• Protein: 25-35g (from ground beef and beans)
• Fiber: 8-12g (from beans, corn, and vegetables)
• Fat: 15-25g (depending on ground beef leaness)
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g (from beans, corn, tomatoes)

Tips for a Healthier Taco Soup:

• Use lean ground turkey or extra-lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
• Increase the amount of vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for added nutrients and fiber.
• Use low-sodium broth and canned goods to reduce sodium intake.
• Opt for lighter toppings like Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and load up on fresh vegetables like avocado, cilantro, and jalapeños.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

This taco soup recipe is perfect for busy weeknights because it comes together so quickly. The prep work is minimal – mostly just chopping an onion and opening cans. The cooking time is also relatively short, making it a great option when you need a satisfying meal on the table in under an hour.

How to Serve Taco Soup

Taco soup is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. The toppings are where you can really customize it to your liking. Here are some ideas for serving your taco soup:

Topping Ideas:

• Shredded Cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or Pepper Jack are all excellent choices. A sprinkle of cheese adds creaminess and a melty, savory element.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a cool, tangy creaminess that balances the warmth and spice of the soup. Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative to sour cream, offering more protein and less fat.
• Diced Avocado: Creamy avocado adds healthy fats and a smooth, buttery texture. It also provides a refreshing coolness that complements the warm soup.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who love extra heat, sliced jalapeños add a spicy kick. You can use fresh or pickled jalapeños, depending on your preference.
• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous flavor that enhances the overall freshness of the soup.
• Tortilla Chips: Crushed tortilla chips add a satisfying crunch and a textural contrast to the soft soup. You can use plain tortilla chips or flavored ones like lime or chili.
• Diced Red Onion: Finely diced red onion adds a sharp, pungent bite and a bit of color.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty tang.
• Hot Sauce: Offer a variety of hot sauces for those who want to customize the spice level of their soup.

Serving Suggestions and Sides:

• Cornbread: Warm, fluffy cornbread is a classic side for soup and complements the taco flavors perfectly.
• Tortillas: Serve warm tortillas (corn or flour) on the side for dipping or scooping up the soup.
• Side Salad: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
• Quesadillas: For a more substantial meal, serve taco soup with cheese quesadillas.
• Rice: For an even heartier meal, serve the taco soup over a bed of cooked rice (white or brown).

Presentation Tips:

• Garnish each bowl individually with a variety of toppings for a visually appealing and customizable meal.
• Set out bowls of toppings so everyone can create their own perfect bowl of taco soup.
• Use colorful bowls to enhance the presentation of the vibrant soup.

Additional Tips for the Best Taco Soup

Here are five additional tips to make your taco soup even more delicious and foolproof:

1. Boost the Flavor with Roasted Vegetables: For an even deeper and more complex flavor, roast some of the vegetables before adding them to the soup. Roasting onions, bell peppers, or even corn beforehand will caramelize their natural sugars and add a smoky sweetness to the soup. Simply toss them with a little olive oil and roast in the oven until tender and slightly charred before adding them to the pot.
2. Use Quality Broth: The broth is the liquid base of your soup, so using a good quality broth can make a significant difference in the overall flavor. Homemade broth is always best if you have the time, but a good quality store-bought beef or chicken broth will also work well. Look for low-sodium options to control the salt level, and consider using bone broth for added richness and nutritional benefits.
3. Don’t Skip the Simmer Time: Simmering the soup for at least 20-30 minutes is crucial for allowing the flavors to meld together and deepen. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will develop and become complex. If you have time, simmering for an hour or even longer will result in an even more flavorful soup. Just make sure to keep the heat low and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Customize the Spice Level: Taco soup is easily adaptable to your spice preference. If you like it mild, use mild taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with mild green chilies, or even omit the green chilies altogether. For a spicier soup, use hot taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with hot green chilies, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, or include a chopped jalapeño or serrano pepper during the onion sautéing stage. You can also serve hot sauce on the side for those who want to add extra heat to their individual bowls.
5. Make it Ahead and Freeze for Later: Taco soup is a fantastic make-ahead meal. In fact, the flavors often improve after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. You can make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week. Taco soup also freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It’s a perfect meal to have on hand for busy days or when you need a quick and easy dinner. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Taco Soup

Here are five frequently asked questions about making and enjoying taco soup:

Q1: Can I make taco soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

A: Yes, taco soup is very easy to adapt for both slow cookers and Instant Pots.

• Slow Cooker: Brown the ground beef and onions on the stovetop as directed in step 1 of the recipe. Then, transfer the beef and onions to your slow cooker. Add all the remaining ingredients (canned tomatoes, beans, corn, tomato sauce, broth, taco seasoning, ranch mix). Stir well, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
• Instant Pot: Use the sauté function to brown the ground beef and onions in the Instant Pot insert. Drain any excess fat. Then, add all the remaining ingredients. Stir well, secure the lid, and cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes. Allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.

Q2: Can I make taco soup vegetarian or vegan?

A: Absolutely! It’s easy to make taco soup vegetarian or vegan.

• Vegetarian: Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground beef substitute (like Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger crumbles) or lentils. You can also add more beans or vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to make it heartier. Ensure your broth and taco seasoning are vegetarian-friendly.
• Vegan: Follow the vegetarian adaptations above. Additionally, ensure that your ranch dressing mix is vegan or omit it. For a creamy element, you can add a dollop of vegan sour cream or avocado as toppings.

Q3: What other vegetables can I add to taco soup?

A: Taco soup is very versatile, and you can add a variety of vegetables to enhance its flavor and nutritional value. Some great additions include:

• Bell Peppers: Diced bell peppers (any color) add sweetness and crunch.
• Zucchini: Diced zucchini adds a mild flavor and tender texture.
• Carrots: Diced carrots add sweetness and a slight crunch.
• Celery: Diced celery adds a subtle savory flavor and texture.
• Spinach or Kale: Stir in fresh spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for added greens.
• Sweet Potatoes: Diced sweet potatoes add sweetness and heartiness.

Q4: How long does taco soup last in the refrigerator and freezer?

A: Taco soup stores very well.

• Refrigerator: Store leftover taco soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
• Freezer: Taco soup freezes exceptionally well. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q5: Can I make taco soup spicier or milder?

A: Yes, you can easily adjust the spice level of taco soup to your preference.

• To Make it Spicier:
  • Use hot taco seasoning.
  • Use diced tomatoes with hot green chilies.
  • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
  • Include a chopped jalapeño or serrano pepper when sautéing the onions.
  • Serve with hot sauce on the side.
• To Make it Milder:
  • Use mild taco seasoning or reduce the amount of taco seasoning.
  • Use diced tomatoes with mild green chilies or regular diced tomatoes.
  • Omit the diced tomatoes with green chilies altogether.
  • Avoid adding extra chili peppers or hot sauce.

Enjoy making and customizing this delicious and easy taco soup recipe!

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