Original Taco Soup Recipe: Taco soup is one of those hearty, comforting dishes that bring joy to any dinner table. It’s like your favorite taco—but in soup form! Think about it: all the savory flavors, spices, and textures you love, served hot in a bowl with a spoon. This recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight meal, a game-day gathering, or just when you’re craving something deliciously satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting in the kitchen, this taco soup is simple to make and packed with flavor.
What makes taco soup a winner is its versatility. You can throw in your favorite toppings, adjust the heat to your preference, and even make it healthier with a few tweaks. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means minimal cleanup—music to any home cook’s ears.
Ingredients Needed for the Original Taco Soup
To whip up this savory delight, you need a combination of fresh ingredients and pantry staples. The best part? You probably already have most of these in your kitchen.
Fresh Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey if preferred)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Fresh ingredients form the foundation of flavor in your soup. The ground meat adds a rich, savory element, while onions and garlic create that classic aromatic base. Adding bell peppers gives a touch of sweetness and texture.
Pantry Essentials
- 1 (15 oz) can of corn, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can of diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can of tomato sauce
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade mix)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
These shelf-stable items make taco soup a fantastic go-to when you’re short on time. The combination of beans and vegetables adds texture and nutrients, while the seasoning packets infuse your soup with those iconic taco flavors.
Tools and Equipment Required
Making taco soup doesn’t require fancy gadgets. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chopping board and knife
- Can opener
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Ladle for serving
Having everything ready before you start cooking makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Taco Soup
Let’s dive into the cooking process! This step-by-step guide will walk you through from raw ingredients to a steaming bowl of taco soup.
Step 1: Preparing the Ground Meat
Start by heating a tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add your ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until it’s nicely browned, which takes about 6–8 minutes. If you’re using a fattier meat, drain the excess grease to avoid an oily soup.
Pro tip: Browning the meat properly adds a deep, umami flavor that enhances the soup.
Step 2: Sautéing Aromatics
Once your meat is browned, toss in the diced onions, minced garlic, and chopped bell peppers if you’re using them. Cook for another 5 minutes until the onions become translucent and everything smells amazing. This step builds the flavor foundation for your soup.
You’ll notice how the garlic and onion infuse the meat with even more savory notes. This step is small but mighty.
Step 3: Adding the Core Ingredients
Now it’s time to dump in the canned ingredients—corn, beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir everything together to combine. The colors, textures, and aromas at this stage will really start to resemble a taco in a pot.
Make sure your beans are well rinsed to remove excess sodium and starch. This keeps the soup fresh and vibrant.
Step 4: Seasoning for Flavor
Add in your taco seasoning and ranch dressing mix. Stir well so that all the spices coat the meat and vegetables evenly. Then pour in your beef broth or water. Stir everything together once again and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
Taste the broth at this stage and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Want it spicier? Add chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes.
Step 5: Simmering to Perfection
Lower the heat and let your soup simmer uncovered for about 20–25 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. The broth will thicken slightly and the spices will deepen in intensity.
During this time, set the table, prep your toppings, or just bask in the amazing aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 6: Serving the Taco Soup
Ladle your taco soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings:
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Diced avocado
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
Each bowl is a customizable masterpiece. Serve with cornbread or a side salad for a full meal experience.
Tips to Enhance Your Taco Soup
Even though taco soup is already a flavor-packed dish, a few tricks can take it to the next level. Want your soup to have that irresistible “wow” factor? Here are some pro tips you’ll want to remember:
- Use Homemade Seasoning: While store-bought taco and ranch seasoning packets are convenient, making your own allows you to control salt and spice levels. A basic mix of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano can do wonders.
- Roast Your Veggies: Before tossing in peppers, onions, or even corn, try roasting them for 10–15 minutes. This adds a smoky depth to the soup that’s simply unforgettable.
- Deglaze the Pot: After browning your meat, add a splash of broth or even beer to lift those caramelized bits stuck to the bottom. That’s flavor gold, right there.
- Use Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: Swap regular diced tomatoes for fire-roasted ones to give your soup a smoky edge.
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: Letting your soup simmer slowly develops richer, more cohesive flavors.
- Add a Starch for Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, add a handful of crushed tortilla chips while simmering, or stir in a tablespoon of masa harina or cornstarch slurry.
These little adjustments can turn your basic taco soup into a restaurant-worthy dish, personalized to your palate.
Nutritional Information
Taco soup is a satisfying and relatively balanced meal, especially when made with lean meat and wholesome ingredients. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving (based on 1 cup without toppings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280–320 |
| Protein | 20–25g |
| Fat | 10–15g |
| Carbohydrates | 30–35g |
| Fiber | 8–10g |
| Sodium | 800–1000mg |
This soup offers a great combo of protein from the meat and beans, fiber from the legumes and corn, and healthy fats if you use avocado as a topping. Want to make it healthier? Skip the sour cream and cheese, use low-sodium beans and broth, and lean ground turkey.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
One of the best things about taco soup? It tastes even better the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
- Storing in the Fridge: Once the soup cools down, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freezing for Later: Taco soup freezes beautifully. Just ladle it into freezer-safe bags or containers (leave some space for expansion), and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating Instructions:
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium heat until it reaches your desired temperature.
Make sure to thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight for the best results. This makes taco soup a meal prep dream—double the recipe and freeze half for a lazy weeknight meal.
Variations to Try Next Time
Feeling creative? Taco soup is super adaptable. Switch things up to suit your cravings or dietary needs:
- Chicken Taco Soup: Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter take.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add extra beans, lentils, or even quinoa.
- Creamy Taco Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a block of cream cheese for a rich, comforting texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños, chipotle peppers in adobo, or hot sauce for heat lovers.
- Slow Cooker Friendly: Combine all ingredients (except toppings) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
These variations make taco soup exciting every time. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll never get bored of, no matter how often it lands on your dinner table.
FAQs about Original Taco Soup Recipe
Q1: Can I make taco soup ahead of time?
Yes, taco soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Q2: What toppings go best with taco soup?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, avocado, tortilla chips, green onions, and fresh cilantro. Choose your favorites to add extra flavor and texture.
Q3: Is taco soup spicy?
Taco soup can be as mild or spicy as you like. Adjust the heat by using mild or hot taco seasoning and adding fresh chilies or hot sauce to taste.
Q4: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown your meat first, then add all the ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
Q5: What kind of beans work best in taco soup?
Black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans are the most common choices. You can use one type or a mix for added flavor and nutrition.
Q6: Is taco soup gluten-free?
Yes, taco soup can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free taco seasoning and ensure that canned ingredients don’t contain hidden gluten.
Q7: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Definitely. Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and still tastes delicious in taco soup.
Q8: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in a bowl until hot.
Q9: Can I make taco soup vegetarian?
Yes! Just skip the meat and add extra beans, corn, or veggies. Use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth.
Q10: What side dishes go well with taco soup?
Taco soup pairs well with cornbread, tortilla chips, rice, or a fresh green salad.
Conclusion
Taco soup is more than just a meal—it’s a warm hug in a bowl. With simple ingredients, bold flavors, and endless customization options, it’s no wonder this dish is a favorite in so many households. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or feeding a crowd, this original taco soup recipe has you covered.
Now that you’ve got the recipe and all the tips to master it, go ahead—spice up your next mealtime with a bowl of taco goodness!
