If you’re craving a warm, hearty, and flavor-packed meal, this taco soup recipe is just what you need. Bursting with bold Tex-Mex flavors, it combines ground meat, beans, corn, and a perfectly seasoned tomato base into a comforting bowl that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. Taco soup has become a go-to for busy weeknights and family dinners because it brings all the flavors of tacos into a cozy, spoonable form. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this dish is easy, customizable, and sure to win hearts around the table.
Why You’ll Love This Taco Soup Recipe
- One-pot wonder – Everything comes together in a single pot for easy cooking and minimal cleanup.
- Quick and simple – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Budget-friendly – Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients you likely already have on hand.
- Family-approved – A customizable recipe that kids and adults both enjoy.
- Meal-prep friendly – Stores and reheats beautifully, making it great for leftovers.
Ingredients Needed for Perfect Taco Soup Recipe
- Ground beef or turkey – The hearty base of the soup, adding protein and rich flavor.
- Onion and garlic – Build aromatic depth and enhance the Tex-Mex flavors.
- Canned tomatoes – Provide a tangy, robust base for the broth.
- Beans (kidney, black, or pinto) – Add bulk, protein, and extra fiber.
- Corn – Brings a hint of sweetness and texture contrast.
- Taco seasoning – Infuses the soup with classic taco spice and warmth.
- Broth – Helps bring all ingredients together in a rich, flavorful soup.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Taco Soup Recipe
- Brown the meat – In a large pot, cook ground beef or turkey until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté aromatics – Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
- Add canned goods – Stir in tomatoes, beans, and corn for a hearty base.
- Season and simmer – Mix in taco seasoning and broth. Let simmer 15–20 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve and garnish – Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheese, tortilla chips, sour cream, or green onions.
Expert Tip: For a thicker soup, let it simmer longer to reduce slightly. For extra spice, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Spicy Kick – Use hot taco seasoning or add chili flakes for extra heat.
- Healthier Option – Swap beef for ground turkey or chicken and use low-sodium broth.
- Vegetarian Taco Soup – Skip the meat and add extra beans or lentils.
- Creamy Twist – Stir in a little cream cheese or heavy cream for a rich, velvety texture.
How to Store & Reheat
- Refrigerate – Store cooled soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze – Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat – Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Similar Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this hearty taco soup recipe, you’ll love trying out a few more comforting bowls that are just as cozy and flavorful. Warm up with a cheesy and rich Lasagna Soup, indulge in the classic flavors of French Onion Soup, or keep it simple and soothing with a homemade Chicken Soup Recipe. Each one brings its own unique twist to the table, perfect for your next family dinner or weeknight meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make taco soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat first, then add all ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Is taco soup spicy?
It depends on the taco seasoning you use. Choose mild for a kid-friendly version or hot for extra heat.
What toppings go best with taco soup?
Popular choices include shredded cheese, tortilla chips, sour cream, avocado, jalapeños, and fresh cilantro.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. In fact, taco soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
This taco soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food—quick, budget-friendly, and bursting with flavor. Whether you serve it on a busy weeknight or at a casual family gathering, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Give it a try, experiment with toppings, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family.
Taco Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes
- 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 1 15 oz can corn, drained
- 1 15 oz can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 15 oz can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 4 oz can diced green chiles
- 1 packet taco seasoning or 3 tbsp homemade
- 3 cups beef or chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toppings: shredded cheddar cheese sour cream, tortilla chips, green onions, avocado
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in taco seasoning and mix until the meat is well coated.
- Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, corn, beans, green chiles, and broth. Stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, topped with cheese, sour cream, tortilla chips, and green onions.