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Taco soup is my favorite hands-off answer to busy weeknights. With just a few simple steps you can have a steaming pot of hearty soup brimming with taco flavor and packed with protein and veggies in under thirty minutes. Or, if you want all the comfort with none of the hurry, the slow cooker version lets you come home to dinner ready and waiting.
I first made this taco soup while rushing after a crazy day and now it is my go-to for those nights I do not want to stress over the stove. Even my so-called soup-avoiding kids ask for seconds with huge smiles.
Ingredients
- Lean ground beef: this adds savory flavor and protein look for 90 percent lean for less grease
- Yellow onion: builds the aromatic base choose firm and heavy onions for freshness
- Garlic: brings out depth and classic taco taste use fresh cloves for best results
- Diced tomatoes: provide tangy acidity and body use fire roasted for more bold flavor
- Black beans: contribute extra protein and fiber go for canned low sodium if possible
- Corn: adds natural sweetness and color frozen or canned both work well
- Tomato sauce: thickens and gives richness opt for no salt added if you watch sodium
- Taco seasoning: infuses the soup with classic spices make your own or select a mix with chili powder cumin and paprika as the main notes
- Beef broth: brings everything together select low sodium and good quality for rich background flavor
- For toppings: consider avocado shredded cheese sour cream cilantro or chips always taste and add as you like
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Aromatics:
- In a large soup pot cook lean ground beef and chopped yellow onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is soft this should take about eight minutes Stir in minced garlic and cook another two minutes being careful not to burn the garlic for maximum flavor foundation
- Drain Any Excess Grease:
- If your beef is not very lean drain off most of the fat from the pot This keeps the soup from being greasy and lets the taco spices shine
- Add the Tomatoes Beans and Corn:
- Pour in diced tomatoes black beans corn and tomato sauce Stir well to evenly combine all the flavors and ensure the beans break up a little bit for a thicker texture
- Season and Add Broth:
- Sprinkle in all the taco seasoning giving the soup its signature taste Pour in beef broth and mix thoroughly to cover all the ingredients with broth Bring to a gentle simmer
- Simmer to Bring Flavors Together:
- Turn the heat down to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about fifteen minutes This thickens the broth slightly and melds all the flavors Taste and adjust with more taco seasoning or salt if needed
- Serve with Toppings:
- Spoon the soup into bowls and invite everyone to top their bowl with their favorites such as shredded cheese diced avocado crushed chips sour cream or fresh cilantro My family loves this interactive dinner
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My favorite part is mixing up the toppings My oldest always chooses cheese and avocado while my youngest will not skip tortilla chips There are so many ways for each person to make it their own and it makes family dinner that much more fun
Storage Tips
Taco soup keeps well in the fridge for up to four days Just let it cool then transfer to airtight containers It also freezes perfectly for up to three months and I like to portion it out into single servings for easy weekday lunches Warm it back up on the stove or in the microwave and add fresh toppings just before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you want something lighter No beef broth try chicken or veggie stock Black beans can be replaced with pinto or kidney beans and corn can be fresh frozen or canned Feel free to use your favorite taco seasoning blend or mild for kids who do not like spice
Serving Suggestions
This soup is a meal on its own but we love it with a scoop of cooked rice at the bottom of the bowl Sometimes I serve it with warm cornbread or tortilla chips for scooping If you are having a crowd set out a toppings bar and let everyone get creative
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Context and Comfort
Taco soup became a classic in busy American kitchens especially when slow cookers made weeknight meals easier Homemade versions like this one mean you can adjust the flavors and ingredients for your family’s needs Cheesy taco flavor plus healthy vegetables and beans hit all the comfort food notes without extra fuss
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can brown the meat first or add it raw. Cook on HIGH for 4-6 hours or LOW for 8 hours to develop rich flavors and tender textures.
- → What toppings go well with this taco soup?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, guacamole, cilantro, and tortilla chips, adding creamy, fresh, and crunchy contrasts.
- → Can I use lean ground beef for this dish?
Absolutely. Lean ground beef works well, especially in the slow cooker method, helping to keep the soup lighter but flavorful.
- → How long does it take to prepare this on the stovetop?
The stovetop method takes about 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings when you need a quick, hearty meal.
- → Is this soup suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, it stores well in the fridge and flavors often deepen after a day, making it ideal for preparing ahead and enjoying later.