Taco soup is that warm hug in a bowl that everyone craves when the weather starts getting chilly or when you just need something comforting and easy to prepare. This hearty dish combines all the favorite flavors of a taco into a single, satisfying soup that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even game day parties. There’s something truly special about how quickly it comes together, making it a go-to for busy families and those new to cooking. Plus, it’s customizable and can feed a crowd without breaking the bank!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
You’ll fall in love with taco soup for a multitude of reasons. It’s incredibly quick to whip up, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish. This makes it perfect for those weeknights when time is short but your hunger is loud. It’s also budget-friendly, using easy-to-find ingredients, so you won’t need to make a special trip to the store. And bonus: kids love it! With familiar flavors and a fun consistency, it’s an effortless way to get your little ones excited about dinner.
"This taco soup is a family favorite! It’s not only delicious but also super easy to make. It’s been our go-to for busy weeknights." — A happy home cook.
Step-by-Step Overview
Making taco soup is so simple and straightforward. You’ll start by browning ground beef or turkey with some onions and bell peppers to create a delicious base. Next, stir in taco seasoning for that authentic flavor, followed by your canned ingredients like black beans and corn. Finally, it simmers to let all those wonderful flavors meld together, resulting in a rich and satisfying soup that’s sure to please.
What You’ll Need
To create this comforting bowl of goodness, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to swap the ground beef for lean turkey for a healthier option, or use canned beans of any kind you have on hand.
Directions to Follow
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until they soften, which should take another 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and let it cook for an additional minute to deepen the flavors.
- Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth into the pot and stir well.
- Bring everything to a simmer, allowing it to cook for about 20-30 minutes. Make sure to give it an occasional stir.
- Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot. Enjoy that delightful aroma filling your kitchen!
How to Plate and Pair
The best part about taco soup is how versatile you can make the meal. Serve it hot in a bowl topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro for added richness. You can pair it with tortilla chips for that perfect crunch or a side of cornbread to soak up all that delicious broth.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To ensure your taco soup stays as tasty as possible, store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer bags. It can last for 3 months in the freezer. Just remember to label the bags with the date!
Helpful Cooking Tips
For the best results, consider browning your meat in batches if you’re prepping a large amount. This ensures the meat gets a nice sear rather than steaming. You can also add some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick. If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer or mash some of the beans into the mixture.
Creative Twists
Don’t hesitate to get creative with your taco soup! You can try adding diced avocado or a splash of lime juice for brightness. For a vegetarian version, switch the meat for textured vegetable protein or additional beans. You can also adjust the seasonings to play up different flavor profiles—think cilantro-lime or smoky chipotle.
Common Questions
How long does this recipe take to prepare?
- Total preparation and cooking time is about 30-40 minutes.
Can I use other types of meat?
- Absolutely! Ground chicken or even pork would work well. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly.
Is this taco soup freezer-friendly?
- Yes, it freezes beautifully! Just make sure to cool it completely before placing it in the freezer.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
- Substitute the meat with additional beans, lentils, or tempeh for a hearty vegetarian option.
Taco soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an opportunity to bring family and friends together around the dinner table. Enjoy making and sharing this heartwarming dish!
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Taco Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the favorite flavors of tacos into one filling dish, perfect for weeknight dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until they soften (3-4 minutes).
- Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for an additional minute.
- Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth to the pot and stir well.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.
Notes
For a healthier option, swap ground beef for lean turkey. Store leftovers in airtight containers for 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican