Taco Soup -

If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful, and quick-to-prepare dish that the whole family will love, taco soup is the perfect option. This one-pot wonder combines the mouthwatering flavors of classic tacos into a delicious soup that’s sure to satisfy. The blend of spices, beans, and vegetables along with your choice of toppings makes it a wholesome meal that’s exceptionally comforting, especially on cold days. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a meal that’s both nourishing and bursting with flavor, ready in just about 35 minutes.

Why You Will Love This Taco Soup Recipe

This taco soup is a favorite for many reasons. First of all, it’s incredibly easy to make! With minimal prep work and using only one pot, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. The combination of ground beef (or turkey), beans, and corn provides essential protein and fiber, making it a filling option that keeps you satisfied for hours. Another reason to love this soup is its versatility—feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your tastes. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or at a game day gathering, this soup is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

Before we jump into the cooking process, let’s gather all of our ingredients. Here’s what you will need:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
3 cups low-sodium chicken or beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional toppings:

Shredded cheddar cheese
Diced avocado
Sour cream
Fresh cilantro
Crushed tortilla chips
Lime wedges

Directions

Step 1: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef or ground turkey, cooking it until it is browned. This process will take about 6-8 minutes, and be sure to break the meat apart with a spoon as it cooks to ensure even browning.

Step 2: After the meat has browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

Step 3: Next, sprinkle in the taco seasoning. Stir the mixture well and cook for another minute, allowing the spices to meld together and bring out their full flavors.

Step 4: It’s time to add the beans, corn, diced tomatoes (including those with green chilies), and the broth. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring that all ingredients are distributed evenly throughout the pot.

Step 5: Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes. This simmering time allows the flavors to deepen and develop fully, resulting in a deliciously rich soup.

Step 6: After simmering, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary. Some taco seasonings can be saltier than others, so make sure to check for your preferred level of seasoning.

Step 7: Serve the taco soup hot, garnishing it with your choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, fresh cilantro, crushed tortilla chips, and lime wedges. This adds a delightful burst of flavor and texture to each bowl.

Pro Tips for Making Taco Soup

To add more heat, consider including fresh jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.
If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the meat with additional beans or lentils.
Leftovers taste even better the next day, allowing the flavors to fully meld, so don’t hesitate to make a double batch!
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Experiment with toppings; toppings like pickled onions or even crispy bacon can add a unique twist to the standard recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of meat for the taco soup?

Yes, you can use ground chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based meat substitute. Adjust cooking times as necessary depending on the protein used.

How do I make taco soup spicier?

You can increase the spiciness by adding fresh jalapeños, chili powder, or hot sauce to the soup. Always start with a small amount, as you can add more to taste later.

Can I prepare taco soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the soup and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.

What type of broth should I use?

You can use either chicken or beef broth, or for a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works just as well.

How can I thicken my taco soup?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water or let the soup simmer for a bit longer to reduce it down.

Conclusion

This taco soup recipe offers an easy and satisfying way to bring the flavors of tacos to your dinner table. With its hearty ingredients, customizable toppings, and quick preparation time, it shines as both a family-friendly meal and a versatile dish for entertaining. Give it a try and enjoy the blend of delicious flavors in every bowl!