Taco soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines all the best elements of a taco into a warm, comforting bowl of soup. Packed with ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and a variety of spices, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or as a cozy meal on a chilly day. The best part? It’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Why You’ll Love This Taco Soup
This recipe is ideal for those who love the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine but want something a little different from the usual tacos or burritos. It’s a one-pot meal that’s both filling and satisfying, with a rich, spicy broth that’s sure to warm you up. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to feed a crowd.
Ingredients for Taco Soup
To make this delicious taco soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (you can also use ground turkey or chicken)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or use homemade seasoning)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, avocado, tortilla chips
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
To make taco soup, you’ll need:
- Large pot or Dutch oven: For cooking the soup.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping the onion and garlic.
- Can opener: To open the canned ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For measuring ingredients.
How to Make Taco Soup
Follow these steps to create a delicious and hearty taco soup:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned beef. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion is softened and translucent.
3. Add the Seasoning and Beans:
- Stir in the taco seasoning, making sure the beef and onion mixture is well-coated with the spices.
- Add the black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and tomato sauce to the pot. Stir everything together.
4. Pour in the Broth and Simmer:
- Pour in the beef broth and stir to combine. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Adjust Seasoning and Serve:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, jalapeños, avocado, or tortilla chips.
Tips for Making the Best Taco Soup
- Customize the Protein: You can easily swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Control the Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by choosing mild, medium, or hot diced tomatoes with green chilies, or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Make It Ahead: Taco soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.
- Freeze for Later: This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
Serving Suggestions for Taco Soup
Taco soup is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of warm, crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the delicious broth. A simple green salad or a side of Mexican rice also pairs nicely with this soup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make taco soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can! Brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Q: Can I use homemade taco seasoning?
A: Absolutely! Homemade taco seasoning is a great way to control the flavors and spice level. Use about 2 tablespoons of homemade seasoning in place of the packet.
Q: How can I make this soup vegetarian?
A: To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can add extra beans or vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for more substance.
Conclusion
Taco soup is a delicious, comforting meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more tasty recipes and cooking tips!