Name: Easy Taco Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: Ground Beef or Ground Turkey: 1 lb; Onion, diced: 1 small; Taco Seasoning: 1 packet; Black Beans, drained and rinsed: 1 (15 oz) can; Kidney Beans, drained and rinsed: 1 (15 oz) can; Corn, undrained: 1 (15 oz) can; Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (such as Rotel): 1 (15 oz) can; Tomato Sauce: 1 (8 oz) can; Beef or Chicken Broth: 1 cup; Salt and Pepper: to taste; Optional Toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, tortilla chips

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If you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying meal that’s as effortless as it is delicious, this Easy Taco Soup is about to become your new weeknight hero. Imagine a hearty blend of ground meat, colorful beans, sweet corn, and tangy tomatoes, all simmered together in one pot for a flavor-packed soup the whole family will love. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh touches, this dish comes together in under 40 minutes—leaving you plenty of time to get creative with toppings and sides. Whether you’re craving comfort food or need a quick crowd-pleaser, Easy Taco Soup is the answer!

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about this recipe is how the simple, fuss-free ingredients come together to create big, bold flavors—without any complicated steps. Each element adds its own magic, from the smoky taco seasoning to the sweet burst of corn. Here’s what you’ll need and why you’ll want every single component in your bowl:

Ground beef or ground turkey: Browned meat is the savory heart of this soup, adding richness and satisfying protein.
Small onion, diced: Gives a subtle sweetness and depth to the base—don’t skip this veggie, it makes all the difference!
Taco seasoning (1 packet): An easy shortcut for layering in all those classic Tex-Mex spices with zero fuss.
Black beans (15 oz can, drained and rinsed): These add fiber, color, and a creamy bite to every spoonful.
Kidney beans (15 oz can, drained and rinsed): Their soft, buttery texture balances out the beefy goodness.
Corn (15 oz can, undrained): Including the liquid adds a subtle sweetness and body to the soup broth.
Diced tomatoes with green chilies (15 oz can): Think Rotel—these bring brightness and just the right kick of heat.
Tomato sauce (8 oz can): Provides a smooth, rich base that ties all the flavors together.
Beef or chicken broth (1 cup): Choose your favorite—either one infuses the soup with extra savory depth.
Salt and pepper to taste: Simple, but essential for balancing all the other bold flavors.
Optional toppings: Shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and tortilla chips—go wild and make each bowl your own!

How to Make Easy Taco Soup

Step 1: Brown the Meat and Onions

Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your ground beef or turkey, along with the diced onion, and let them cook together for about 6 to 8 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the meat is nicely browned and the onion has softened and turned fragrant. If there’s any extra grease, just drain it off to keep your soup deliciously hearty, not greasy.

Step 2: Season That Base

Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir it into the meat and onions, letting it cook for about a minute. This extra step unlocks all those complex spice aromas, so don’t rush it—your soup will thank you with every bite!

Step 3: Add the Beans, Corn, and Tomatoes

Now it’s time to bring in the beans, corn (don’t forget the liquid!), diced tomatoes with green chilies, and the tomato sauce. This magical mix is what gives Easy Taco Soup its signature chunky texture and those beautiful, rich colors. Stir everything together and get ready for the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth

Add that cup of beef or chicken broth to the pot and give everything a good stir. The broth helps all the ingredients come together in a cozy, soup-like consistency—perfect for ladling into big bowls.

Step 5: Simmer and Season

Let the soup come to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, uncovered, for about 20 to 25 minutes. Stir occasionally and give it a taste before serving, adjusting the salt and pepper as needed. The longer it simmers, the more those savory flavors will deepen.

How to Serve Easy Taco Soup

Garnishes

This soup truly shines with a parade of toppings. Think gooey shredded cheese that melts right into the soup, a dollop of tangy sour cream, a shower of fresh chopped cilantro, a few slices of spicy jalapeño, or a handful of crunchy tortilla chips. Whether you pile on all the fixings or keep it classic, every bowl is totally customizable.

Side Dishes

I can’t resist serving Easy Taco Soup with warm, fluffy cornbread or buttery flour tortillas—they make wonderful vehicles for scooping up every last drop! If you want something a little lighter, a crisp salad with lime vinaigrette adds a fresh contrast to the bold, hearty flavors of the soup.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving your soup in bread bowls or, for game day vibes, ladle it into mugs for easy handheld enjoyment. You can even set up a DIY “taco soup bar” where everyone adds their own toppings—perfect for parties or family dinners where everyone wants to make their bowl just right.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Easy Taco Soup gets even better the next day! Let leftovers cool, then transfer them to airtight containers and refrigerate. The flavors meld together wonderfully, making tomorrow’s lunch or dinner even tastier. It’ll keep fresh for 3 to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing

This soup is a superstar when it comes to meal prep. Once cooled, pour it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags (leave a little space for expansion). It freezes beautifully for up to three months. Just remember to leave out any fresh toppings until you’re ready to serve.

Reheating

To bring back that piping-hot comfort, reheat refrigerated or thawed soup gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until steaming. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just zap it in 1–2 minute bursts, stirring between each. Add your favorite toppings and you’re ready to dig in again.

FAQs

Can I make Easy Taco Soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the ground meat and onions first, then add everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for about 3 hours. It’s a fantastic option for busy days when you want to come home to dinner already done.

Are there ways to make Easy Taco Soup vegetarian?

Definitely. Skip the meat and bump up the beans—try adding pinto beans, chickpeas, or even some diced bell pepper or zucchini for extra texture and nutrition. Use vegetable broth for a totally plant-based meal that’s still hearty and full of flavor.

How spicy is this soup?

The heat level totally depends on your choice of diced tomatoes and any toppings you add. Using mild diced tomatoes with green chilies keeps it approachable, but you can spice things up with hot varieties, extra jalapeños, or spicy taco seasoning packets as you like.

What’s the best way to thicken Easy Taco Soup?

If you love a thicker, chili-like texture, let the soup simmer uncovered a bit longer, or mash a few of the beans right in the pot with a fork to naturally thicken the broth. Adding a handful of crushed tortilla chips will also give it more body and flavor.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

You bet! This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser and scales up easily. Just use a bigger pot and double (or even triple) all the ingredients—everyone will be begging for seconds!

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Easy Taco Soup is a staple in so many kitchens—it’s hearty, hassle-free, and totally customizable for any taste or occasion. If you haven’t made it yet, grab your favorite pot and give it a go—you’ll be amazed at just how much delicious flavor you can get from such easy ingredients. Happy cooking!

Easy Taco Soup Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 28 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Easy Taco Soup is a delicious one-pot meal that is perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner. Packed with savory ground beef (or turkey), beans, corn, and a variety of seasonings, this soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Ground Beef or Ground Turkey:

1 lb;

Onion, diced:

1 small;

Taco Seasoning:

1 packet;

Black Beans, drained and rinsed:

1 (15 oz) can;

Kidney Beans, drained and rinsed:

1 (15 oz) can;

Corn, undrained:

1 (15 oz) can;

Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (such as Rotel):

1 (15 oz) can;

Tomato Sauce:

1 (8 oz) can;

Beef or Chicken Broth:

1 cup;

Salt and Pepper:

to taste;

Optional Toppings:

shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, tortilla chips

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Instructions

Cook Ground Beef and Onion: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is soft, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Add Seasonings and Ingredients: Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute. Add the black beans, kidney beans, corn (with liquid), diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Stir well to combine.
Simmer and Serve: Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with your favorite taco toppings.