Easy Taco Soup is a quick, hearty dish that’s full of bold flavors and comforting textures. With ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and plenty of spices, it’s like having all your favorite taco toppings in a warm, cozy bowl. The mix of savory broth and tender ingredients makes it a perfect meal when you want something tasty without a lot of fuss.
I love making this soup on busy weeknights because it comes together fast, and the whole family always asks for seconds. One of my favorite tricks is adding a handful of crushed tortilla chips right on top before serving—it adds a nice crunch that’s just right. It’s such an easy way to bring a little extra fun to the meal.
This soup is great on its own or with classic taco sides like shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh avocado slices. I usually make a big pot so there’s plenty for leftovers; it tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to blend. Easy Taco Soup is one of those simple dishes that always feels like a warm, filling hug at the end of the day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions for Easy Taco Soup
Ground Beef: This is the base for the soup’s rich, meaty flavor. If you want to lighten it up, ground turkey or chicken works well too.
Beans: Kidney and pinto beans add heartiness and texture. You can swap black beans or chickpeas if you prefer.
Taco Seasoning: A pre-made packet is convenient, but mixing chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika is a tasty homemade option.
Tomatoes & Tomato Sauce: These keep the soup saucy and flavorful. If fresh tomatoes are in season, chop and use them for a fresher taste.
Beef Broth: Adds depth to the soup. If you want it vegetarian, use vegetable broth or water with a splash of soy sauce for umami.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor When Cooking Ground Beef and Onions?
Start by browning the beef well—this develops rich, deep flavors. Don’t rush; let it get a nice color before breaking it apart. Once browned, drain extra fat to avoid a greasy soup. Then add onions and garlic right into the same pot to soak up all those beefy flavors. Cook the onions until soft and translucent to bring out their natural sweetness, which balances the spices later on.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – perfect for browning meat and simmering the soup all in one pot.
- Wooden spoon – great for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Colander – handy for draining beans and corn quickly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to add the right amount of broth and seasoning.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version that still tastes great.
- Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños when cooking onions to boost flavor and add a little kick.
- Stir in black beans or chickpeas instead of kidney or pinto beans for a different texture.
- Top your soup with shredded cheddar, avocado slices, or a squeeze of lime for fresh, tasty finishes.
Easy Taco Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning mix
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy taco soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook, so you can have a warm and delicious meal ready in around 40 minutes total.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat from the pot.
2. Cook the Onion and Garlic
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook together until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
3. Add Taco Seasoning
Stir in the taco seasoning mix and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes. This helps release all the tasty flavors of the spices.
4. Add the Beans, Corn, Tomatoes, and Broth
Pour in the drained kidney beans, pinto beans, corn, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally so nothing sticks to the pot.
6. Season and Serve
Taste the soup and add salt and pepper if needed. Serve it hot, and if you like, top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh chopped cilantro.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Soup?
Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps it brown evenly and ensures it cooks safely.
Can I Make Easy Taco Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté 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.
How Do I Store Leftover Taco Soup?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warmed through.
What Can I Use Instead of Taco Seasoning Mix?
You can make your own by combining chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust amounts to taste!
