Easy Taco Soup is a hearty, comforting bowl packed with familiar flavors like ground beef, beans, corn, and a zesty tomato base. It’s like all the best parts of tacos combined into one warm, cozy soup that’s perfect for busy nights or when you want something simple but tasty.
I love making this soup because it comes together quickly and uses ingredients I usually have on hand. I usually add a little extra seasoning to make it just right and sometimes throw in some chopped jalapeños for a mild kick. It’s one of those recipes that everyone seems to enjoy no matter their taco preferences!
The best part is how easy it is to serve. I like topping my bowl with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and some crunchy tortilla chips for extra texture. It feels like a little fiesta in a bowl and always gets smiles around the dinner table. It’s a simple meal but one that feels satisfying and made with love.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein and flavor base. For a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well. For a vegetarian twist, try using plant-based meat or extra beans.
Kidney Beans & Corn: These add texture and sweetness. You can swap kidney beans for black beans or pinto beans. Frozen corn can replace canned corn for a fresher taste.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: The chilies add mild heat and flavor. If you prefer less spice, use plain diced tomatoes. For extra kick, add a few diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
Taco Seasoning Mix: This packet blends spices like chili powder, cumin, and garlic. If you don’t have a mix, combine your own spices: chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper work fine.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Cooking Ground Beef and Onions?
Getting the beef nicely browned adds deep flavor to the soup. Here’s how I do it:
- Start with a hot pan to brown the beef well without steaming it.
- Cook the diced onions with the beef so their flavors blend and onions soften.
- Drain off excess fat afterward to keep the soup from being greasy.
- Add garlic last, cooking it just a minute to avoid bitterness.
These simple steps make the base rich and tasty, setting your soup up for success.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – perfect for browning beef and simmering the soup all in one place.
- Wooden spoon – great for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Colander – helps you rinse and drain beans and corn easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for adding broth and seasoning just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken to make it lighter and just as tasty.
- Add black beans or pinto beans for a different bean flavor and texture.
- Stir in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce if you like more heat.
- Toss in chopped bell peppers or zucchini for extra veggies and crunch.
Easy Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (or regular diced tomatoes)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro, tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 25 minutes to simmer, so plan for about 35 minutes total. That’s enough time to get dinner on the table quickly on a busy night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook Ground Beef and Onions:
Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is nicely browned and the onions are soft—about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any extra fat to keep the soup light.
2. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell its wonderful aroma, being careful not to burn it.
3. Stir in Remaining Ingredients:
Add the drained kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over everything and stir well to combine all the flavors.
4. Simmer and Season:
Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Then lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 to 25 minutes. Stir occasionally while the flavors come together and the soup thickens slightly. Taste the soup and add salt and pepper to suit your preference.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or tortilla chips for some crunch. Dig in and enjoy this comforting taco-flavored meal!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Taco Soup?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Cooking ground beef from frozen can lead to uneven browning and longer cooking times.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the ground beef and add extra beans or vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a fully meat-free version.
How Long Does Leftover Taco Soup Keep?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Easy Taco Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
