Easy Taco Soup is a bowl full of comfort and flavor, packed with familiar ingredients like ground beef, beans, corn, and a mix of taco spices. It’s a simple, hearty soup that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day. The combination of tasty beef and zesty seasonings brings that classic taco flavor in a warm, spoonable form.
I love making this soup because it’s quick to put together and always hits the spot when I need something satisfying without a lot of fuss. One of my favorite things is adding a handful of crunchy tortilla chips or a scoop of sour cream right before serving—it makes the soup feel even more special and fun to eat. Plus, it’s great for leftovers; the flavors only get better as it sits.
This soup is perfect for casual dinners or game day gatherings, where everyone can add their own toppings and make their bowl just right. It’s such an easy way to bring those familiar taco flavors into a warm soup, and I find it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I like to have a big pot ready for chilly nights or when friends drop by for a simple, comforting meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the base of your soup’s flavor and texture. You can switch it out for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try plant-based meat or just extra beans and veggies.
Beans: Kidney and black beans add heartiness and texture. If you don’t have these, pinto beans or cannellini beans work well too. Just rinse them well to avoid extra salt.
Taco Seasoning: The seasoning mix is key for that familiar taco flavor. Store-bought packets are handy, but mixing chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano lets you control the salt and spice levels.
Tomatoes & Corn: Diced tomatoes (with juice) and corn add sweetness and depth. Frozen or fresh corn can substitute canned if you prefer. Fire-roasted tomatoes can add a smoky kick.
How Can I Make My Taco Soup Taste Rich and Well-Balanced?
To build a rich, balanced flavor, start by properly browning the ground beef with onions and garlic. This creates a deep base. Follow these tips:
- Cook beef on medium heat until it’s nicely browned, not just gray. This adds flavor.
- Drain excess fat to keep the soup from getting greasy, but don’t rinse the beef—that’s all flavor.
- Layer in spices early so they toast lightly in the fat, bringing out their aroma.
- Simmer the soup uncovered at the end to let it thicken and for the flavors to mingle.
Feel free to taste and adjust salt and heat during simmering. Sometimes a squeeze of lime or a splash of hot sauce at the end lifts the whole bowl.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – perfect for browning meat and simmering the soup all in one place.
- Wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula – for stirring the soup without scratching your pot.
- Colander – handy for draining and rinsing the beans and corn.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your seasoning and liquids just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter soup.
- Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños to boost veggie content and add a bit of crunch or heat.
- Stir in black olives or a splash of lime juice at the end for an extra tangy twist.
- Top with Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a different cheesy flavor.
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 kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
Seasoning:
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or about 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Crushed tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook the beef and aromatics, then another 20-30 minutes to simmer so that all the flavors come together perfectly. Total time: roughly 35-40 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef and Veggies:
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring and breaking up the beef until it’s browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add Seasonings:
Sprinkle the taco seasoning, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper over the cooked meat. Stir well so the spices coat the beef evenly and release their aroma.
3. Add Liquids and Tomatoes:
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together to combine.
4. Mix in Beans and Corn:
Add the drained and rinsed kidney beans, black beans, and corn kernels. Mix everything well.
5. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The soup should thicken slightly and the flavors will meld beautifully.
6. Final Taste and Serving:
Give the soup a taste and adjust the salt, pepper, or seasoning if needed. Serve warm, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, some fresh cilantro, and crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch and flavor.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works great as a leaner substitute. Just cook it the same way, but watch closely as it may brown faster and can dry out if overcooked.
Can I Make This Soup in Advance?
Yes! Taco soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. 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 Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftover soup in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Are Good Toppings for Taco Soup?
Try shredded cheddar, sour cream, fresh cilantro, and crushed tortilla chips. You can also add sliced jalapeños, avocado, or a squeeze of lime to brighten the flavors.
