Taco Soup Recipe: Taco soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the bold flavors of tacos into a hearty, warm bowl. Think of it as a cross between chili and tacos. It’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and fully customizable with your favorite toppings.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a weeknight dinner, or just looking to whip up something easy, taco soup is always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Taco Soup
To make a classic taco soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Ground beef (1 lb): The base protein for your taco soup.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds depth and sweetness.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Essential for flavor.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): Provides the rich, tomato base.
- Tomato sauce (1 can, 8 oz): Adds a smooth, tomatoey consistency.
- Corn kernels (1 can, drained): Adds sweetness and texture.
- Black beans (1 can, drained and rinsed): Provides protein and body.
- Kidney beans (1 can, drained and rinsed): More beans for heartiness.
- Green chilies (1 can, 4 oz): Gives the soup a mild kick.
- Taco seasoning (1 packet or homemade mix): The star of the show.
- Ranch seasoning (1 packet): Adds a unique tangy flavor.
- Beef broth (2 cups): To thin out the soup and bring all the flavors together.
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Avocado slices
- Jalapeños
- Fresh cilantro
- Tortilla chips or strips
- Lime wedges
Health Benefits of Taco Soup
Taco soup is more than just a tasty dish; it’s also packed with nutrients! With beans providing fiber and protein, and vegetables like corn and tomatoes adding vitamins and antioxidants, this soup can be both hearty and healthy. If you’re watching your fat intake, you can always opt for leaner meat like ground turkey or even a plant-based meat substitute.
Equipment Needed for Taco Soup
To get started, you won’t need anything fancy. Just some basic kitchen tools:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Can opener
Preparation Time
Taco soup is known for being a quick and convenient dish, which is one of the reasons it’s so popular.
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
It’s the perfect recipe when you want something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Taco Soup
- Brown the ground beef: Heat your large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
- Add onion and garlic: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine the canned goods: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, black beans, kidney beans, corn, and green chilies. Give everything a good stir.
- Season the soup: Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and ranch seasoning. Stir well to coat all the ingredients.
- Add the broth: Pour in the beef broth and stir again. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Simmer and adjust flavors: After simmering, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or more taco seasoning as needed.
Alternative Protein Options
If you’re not a fan of ground beef, don’t worry! You can easily swap it out for other proteins like:
- Ground turkey: For a leaner option.
- Ground chicken: For a lighter flavor.
- Shredded chicken: Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works great.
- Plant-based ground meat: For a vegetarian or vegan option.
Vegetarian and Vegan Taco Soup Modifications
For a plant-based taco soup, replace the meat with extra beans or a plant-based protein. You can also skip the ranch seasoning (which typically contains dairy) and make sure the taco seasoning is vegan. Opt for vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it completely meat-free.
Adjusting Spice Levels
If you love your soup on the spicier side, feel free to crank up the heat! Here’s how:
- Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers.
- Use spicier taco seasoning or chili powder.
- Include hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
For a milder version, omit the green chilies or choose a mild taco seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Taco soup is hearty enough to serve on its own, but if you’re looking to make it a complete meal, consider serving it with:
- Cornbread: A sweet side that pairs perfectly.
- Mexican rice: Adds some extra carbs for a more filling meal.
- Tortilla chips: For a satisfying crunch.
Toppings and Garnishes
The best part about taco soup is how customizable it is with toppings. Here are some ideas to get creative with:
- Shredded cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack adds richness.
- Sour cream: For creaminess and tang.
- Fresh avocado: A healthy, creamy addition.
- Cilantro: Adds freshness.
- Tortilla strips: For a crunchy texture.
Storing and Reheating Taco Soup
Got leftovers? Taco soup stores wonderfully.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Simply reheat in a pot over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Freezing Taco Soup for Later
Taco soup is freezer-friendly, making it a great make-ahead meal.
- Freezing: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. It will last up to 3 months.
- Thawing: Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Making Taco Soup in a Slow Cooker
Want to set it and forget it? Here’s how to adapt this recipe for the slow cooker:
- Brown the meat first, then transfer it to the slow cooker.
- Add all other ingredients.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
FAQs about Taco Soup Recipe
1. What is Taco Soup?
Taco soup is a hearty and flavorful soup made with ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and taco seasoning. It’s a perfect blend of Tex-Mex ingredients, creating a comforting dish that’s quick to prepare.
2. How long does it take to make Taco Soup?
Taco soup typically takes around 30 minutes to cook, making it an easy weeknight meal. You can also let it simmer longer for more depth of flavor.
3. Can I make Taco Soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! To make it in a slow cooker, brown the ground beef first, then transfer all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Can Taco Soup be frozen?
Absolutely. Taco soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
5. What toppings go well with Taco Soup?
Common toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, avocado slices, and tortilla chips. Feel free to get creative with your favorites!
6. Can I make Taco Soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can make taco soup vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and using additional beans or plant-based meat substitutes.
7. What are good side dishes for Taco Soup?
Taco soup pairs well with cornbread, quesadillas, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Taco soup is not only a flavorful and comforting dish, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, making taco soup can be a fun and rewarding experience. Feel free to experiment with different toppings, spices, and ingredients to truly make it your own.
Don’t be afraid to add a personal twist—whether it’s extra heat from jalapeños or a creamy dollop of sour cream. The beauty of taco soup lies in its adaptability, so enjoy the process and savor every bite!
References
When creating a delicious and hearty taco soup, it’s always beneficial to refer to trusted sources for recipe variations and tips. For further reading and validation of the information provided in our taco soup recipe, check out these reputable websites:
- AllRecipes – A go-to site for diverse taco soup recipes, including different ingredient combinations and preparation techniques.
- Food Network – Offers expert advice from chefs on how to elevate your taco soup with flavor-packed toppings.
- Taste of Home – Provides home-cooked versions of taco soup with simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients.
These resources ensure you’re working with reliable, tested methods to perfect your taco soup.
