Easy Taco Soup is a warm, comforting bowl packed with all the classic taco flavors you love. It’s full of seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cheese on top that melts just right. This soup is like having a taco night but in a cozy, spoonable form.
I love making this soup because it’s super quick and doesn’t need a lot of fuss, which means I can whip it up on a busy weeknight and still have something tasty and filling. I usually brown the beef with some taco seasoning and then just toss everything into one pot, letting the flavors meld together while I relax a bit.
My favorite way to serve Easy Taco Soup is with some crunchy tortilla chips on the side or even crumbled inside the bowl for extra texture. A dollop of sour cream and a bit of fresh cilantro make it feel special without much extra work. It’s always a hit with my family, and I find myself wanting to make it again and again, especially when the weather turns chilly.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the base for the soup’s hearty flavor. If you want a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, use diced mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute.
Beans: Black and kidney beans add protein and texture. You can swap in pinto beans or chickpeas if preferred, or use just one type if that’s what you have.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: This gives the soup a mild kick and some extra flavor. If you like it spicier, add a jalapeño or use a hotter salsa. For less heat, use plain diced tomatoes and add a bit of smoked paprika.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought packets work well, but making your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano lets you control the flavor and saltiness.
Beef Broth: It provides depth to the soup. Vegetable broth or chicken broth are great substitutes, especially if you’re using ground turkey or a vegetarian base.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor When Browning the Beef?
Browning the beef well adds rich flavor and texture to the soup. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your pot over medium-high heat before adding the meat to get a good sear.
- Don’t stir the meat constantly — let it sit for a couple of minutes to brown properly.
- Break it apart with a spoon once the underside has browned, and continue cooking until no pink remains.
- After cooking, drain excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy, but leave a little for flavor.
- Cook the onions and garlic in the same pot to soak up those beefy flavors before adding other ingredients.
Taking the time here really lifts the whole dish. The small bit of caramelization you get is pure flavor gold!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – perfect for browning the beef and simmering the soup all in one spot.
- Spoon or spatula – to break up the ground beef and stir the soup without scratching your pot.
- Can opener – to open all those cans easily and safely.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your broth, seasoning, and spices just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter taste and fewer calories.
- Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra crunch and a spicy kick.
- Stir in a handful of chopped fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice at the end for bright freshness.
- Top with shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar, for a creamier melt and mild spice.
Easy Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 3 cups beef broth (or water plus bouillon)
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Tortilla chips
Time You’ll Need
This Easy Taco Soup takes about 10 minutes of prep time to chop and get ingredients ready. Cooking takes about 30 minutes, including browning and simmering. So, plan for roughly 40 minutes from start to finish — a perfect quick and hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef and Cook Aromatics
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks until it’s fully browned. Then add the diced onions and minced garlic. Cook everything together for about 3-4 minutes until the onions soften.
2. Add Seasoning and Mix in Ingredients
Drain any excess fat from the pot to keep the soup from being greasy. Stir in the taco seasoning packet, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let this cook for another minute to bring out the flavors. Then, add the black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with and without chilies), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix everything well together.
3. Simmer and Serve
Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer, uncovered, for about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and help the flavors combine. When done, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or a bit more taco seasoning if needed. Serve the soup hot topped with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Enjoy with crunchy tortilla chips on the side or sprinkled on top for extra fun!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Soup?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Thawing ensures even browning and prevents excess moisture from making the soup watery.
Can I Make Easy Taco Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and cook the onions and garlic first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours for best results.
How Long Will Leftovers Stay Fresh?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it gets too thick.
What Can I Use Instead of Taco Seasoning Mix?
You can easily make your own seasoning with chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. This way, you can control the spice level and avoid additives.
