This hearty taco soup is a cozy dish that combines beans, corn, and seasoned beef with delicious spices. It’s like a fiesta in a bowl!
When it’s chilly outside, I love how quick and easy it is to whip up this soup. Just toss everything in a pot, and you’re ready for a warm meal that everyone enjoys!
Don’t forget to top it with cheese and crushed chips! It adds that extra crunch we all crave. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef or turkey: Both work well, but I prefer using ground turkey for a leaner option. If you’re vegetarian, consider using lentils or a plant-based meat alternative instead!
Beans: Black and pinto beans are great for this recipe. If you’re short on one type, you can substitute with any other beans like kidney or cannellini beans, or even chickpeas if you prefer.
Diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes with green chiles add a nice kick. If you can’t find that, use regular diced tomatoes, and consider adding a chopped jalapeño or some hot sauce instead.
Taco seasoning: Store-bought is convenient, but I love making my own mix. Combining chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika gives you full control over the flavor!
Broth: Beef broth enhances the flavor, but vegetable broth is a perfect substitute if you’re looking for a lighter taste or cooking vegetarian.
How Do You Make the Best Taco Soup Without It Sticking?
A common frustration with soups is sticking at the bottom of the pot. To prevent this, start with a nicely heated pot and add oil before browning your meat. After that, follow these steps:
- Keep stirring your ingredients after adding them to keep everything moving.
- Use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape the bottom of the pot as you stir, which helps prevent any bits from getting stuck.
- If it looks too thick while simmering, add a little more broth or water to keep things flowing!
With these tips, you’ll create a smooth and flavor-packed taco soup every time!
How to Make The Best Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes (with green chiles preferred)
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning)
- 1 tsp chili powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Tortilla chips
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious taco soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy meal for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any extra fat to keep your soup nice and light!
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Now, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Stir them in and let them cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. This will give your soup great flavor and aroma!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Time to bring in all the delicious ingredients! Stir in the black beans, pinto beans, corn, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Then, sprinkle in the taco seasoning and chili powder (if you’re using it). Season everything with salt and pepper to your taste.
4. Simmer the Soup:
Increase the heat to medium-high until the mixture begins to simmer. Then, lower the heat and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for about 20-30 minutes. Remember to give it a stir every now and then to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom!
5. Final Touches:
After simmering, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. If it needs more flavor, feel free to add a pinch more salt or pepper.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your taco soup is now ready to enjoy! Ladle the warm soup into bowls and top it with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, crunchy tortilla chips, and fresh cilantro for that extra flair. Dive in and savor every bite!
Can I Use a Different Protein Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based proteins like lentils or crumbled tempeh. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding the other ingredients. Adjust the seasoning as needed to complement the flavor of the protein you choose.
What If I Don’t Have Taco Seasoning?
No worries! You can easily make your own taco seasoning by mixing together 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste!
How Can I Store Leftover Taco Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then gently warm on the stove or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to thin it out.
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Soup?
Definitely! Feel free to include veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn. Just dice them small and add them in when you add the beans. This is a great way to sneak in extra nutrients and flavor!
