Easy Taco Soup is a bowl full of comfort with a tasty mix of ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and just the right amount of taco seasoning. It’s a super simple dish that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day, and it comes together without much fuss.
I love how quickly this soup comes together, making it a go-to for busy weeknights when I want something warm but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The best part is that it’s flexible—you can add your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips to make every spoonful fun and flavorful.
This soup always brings smiles around the table. It’s like a taco in a bowl, with all those great flavors in every bite, and it’s great for leftovers too. When I’m craving something easy but satisfying, this taco soup never disappoints.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This adds a meaty base that makes the soup filling. If you want a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, crumbled tofu or cooked lentils work well.
Beans and corn: Black beans and corn add color, texture, and a touch of sweetness. Canned versions save time, but you can use frozen corn and cooked dry beans if preferred.
Taco seasoning: The flavor star here! Store-bought mixes are convenient, but I like making my own blend with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika for fresher taste.
Tomatoes & broth: Canned diced tomatoes and tomato sauce create a rich base. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to make it vegetarian or milder in flavor.
How Do You Make the Soup So Flavorful Without Overcooking?
Getting the right balance means layering flavors carefully and simmering gently:
- Brown the meat first to build a rich taste. Don’t skip this step, as it adds depth.
- Sauté onions until soft, bringing out their sweetness without browning too much.
- Add liquids and spices, then simmer on low heat to blend flavors without breaking down ingredients.
- Keep the heat gentle during simmering to avoid mushy beans or corn.
This slow simmer helps everything come together in a tasty harmony that’s not too watery or bland.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – perfect for cooking all the ingredients together and letting the soup simmer evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Colander – handy for draining and rinsing canned beans and corn quickly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to add the right amounts of broth, seasoning, and spices.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option that still tastes great.
- Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños to bring some crunch and mild heat to your soup.
- Top with shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for a creamier, spicier finish.
- Stir in a can of diced green chilies or a squeeze of lime juice to brighten up the flavors.
Easy Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or about 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking time, making it ready in approximately 40 minutes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from being greasy.
2. Cook Onions:
Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. This adds a sweet, mellow flavor to the soup.
3. Combine Main Ingredients:
Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix everything evenly.
4. Add Seasonings:
Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and chili powder if using. Stir well so all the flavors blend nicely.
5. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to come together beautifully.
6. Season and Serve:
Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as you like. Spoon the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh cilantro leaves for a fresh finish.
7. Optional Extras:
You can add crushed tortilla chips on top or serve alongside warm tortillas for that classic taco feel.
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables in This Taco Soup?
Yes! If you use frozen corn or beans, just make sure they’re fully thawed before adding them to the pot. This helps keep the soup texture just right and prevents extra water from diluting the flavors.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to blend. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based protein like crumbled tofu, cooked lentils, or extra beans. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep the flavor vegetarian-friendly.
What Are the Best Toppings for Taco Soup?
Classic toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro. You can also add sliced avocado, diced jalapeños, or crushed tortilla chips for extra texture and flavor.
