This Taco Soup is such a comforting and easy meal to whip up! Perfect for busy nights, or just when you want something hearty and flavorful. You can customize it with toppings and spices to make it your own. Plus, it’s great for feeding a crowd or having leftovers for the next day!
Here’s the recipe with added details, FAQs, and benefits to help make your Taco Soup even better. 🌮🍲
Taco Soup Recipe
A deliciously hearty soup that’s a flavor-packed combination of taco seasoning, ranch, and all the classic taco ingredients. Serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, and jalapeños for the ultimate cozy meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey if you prefer)
- 2 packets taco seasoning (your favorite brand, mild or spicy depending on preference)
- 1 packet dry ranch 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
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel works great)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional for extra heat)
- 1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth for a lighter version)
- Toppings (optional but highly recommended):
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Sliced jalapeños
- Tortilla chips (crushed on top for some crunch)
- Avocado slices or guacamole
Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Break it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy soup.
2. Add Seasonings:
- Add both packets of taco seasoning and dry ranch seasoning to the pan with the cooked meat. Stir to coat the meat evenly with the seasonings.
3. Add the Canned Ingredients:
- Pour in the black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, and diced green chilies (if using). Stir everything together to combine.
4. Add Broth and Simmer:
- Pour in the beef broth and stir. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The flavors will meld together, and the soup will thicken up as it simmers.
5. Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, and jalapeños. You can also add a handful of crushed tortilla chips for some added crunch.
Q&A:
Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
A: Yes! Ground turkey or chicken will work perfectly in this recipe, and they will make the soup a little lighter if that’s your preference.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! You can skip the meat altogether and use extra beans (like black beans and pinto beans) for protein. You could also add some sautéed veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to bulk it up.
Q: Can I freeze Taco Soup?
A: Yes! This soup freezes really well. Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will last for about 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove.
Q: How can I make it spicier?
A: You can kick up the heat by adding more diced jalapeños, using a spicy taco seasoning or hot sauce. You can also swap in spicy diced tomatoes (like Rotel with extra heat) or use chipotle chili powder for a smoky kick.
Q: Can I make it in the slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can! Brown the meat first, then add all the ingredients (including seasonings, beans, and broth) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. You can add the toppings when ready to serve.
Benefits of Taco Soup:
- Quick & Easy:
This recipe is super easy to make, requiring just one pot and about an hour to simmer. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal that doesn’t take too long to prepare. - Customizable:
You can adjust the level of heat, the type of protein, or even add extra veggies depending on your preferences. Plus, you can use whatever toppings you like—sour cream, avocado, and cheese are just the beginning! - Filling & Hearty:
With the beans, corn, and ground beef, this soup is full of protein and fiber, which will keep you satisfied. It’s a great option for a cozy, filling dinner that’s also budget-friendly. - Kid-Friendly:
Since Taco Soup has familiar flavors (taco seasoning, cheese, sour cream), it’s usually a hit with kids. Plus, they’ll love adding their own toppings! - Great for Meal Prep:
This soup stores really well in the fridge and is even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. It’s an excellent option for meal prepping lunches or dinners for the week.
Pro Tips:
- Don’t Skip the Simmer: Letting the soup simmer for at least an hour allows the flavors to really meld together and develop that rich taco flavor. You can simmer it longer if you want to let it reduce a bit more and thicken up.
- Make it Creamier: For a creamier soup, you can stir in a bit of cream cheese or sour cream just before serving. This will give it a velvety texture and an extra layer of richness.
- Top with Tortilla Chips: For added crunch, top each bowl with crushed tortilla chips or serve them on the side. This gives the soup a great texture contrast and an authentic taco feel.
Conclusion:
This Taco Soup is a perfect balance of hearty, comforting, and flavorful, with the bonus of being incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or as a big batch for a crowd, it’s sure to be a hit. Plus, the flexibility with toppings and seasonings means you can make it just the way you like!
What toppings do you like to add to your Taco Soup? Do you prefer it spicy or more mild? Let me know if you try it out! 🌶🍲