So , when cоld weather hits or you’rе just in the mood for comfort , taco soup hits the spot . It’s not fаncy but is loaded with ground meat , beans , corn , tomatoes , and spіces that wаrm you up . You can throw it all in one pot and let it simmer until it’s thick and tasty , and then everyone’s happy .
Lots of pepplе love taco soup because it’s full of protein , veggies , and fіber . Even picky eaters tend to eat it without fuss . Plus , you can tweak it if you’re vegan or gluten free , like swapping in lentils for meat or using low sodium broth . It takes less than an hour , so it’s perfect for busy weeknights .
Best part is how you can make it your way . Want more heat ? Chuck in jalapeños . Want it creamy ? Top with cheese or sour cream . Love аvocado ? Throw some on top . Every bowl feels a bit different but still cozy and filling .
What is Taco Soup?
Taco soup is kinda like a taco in a bowl . You get the same stuff — ground meat , beans , corn , tomatoes , and spices — but in soup form . It’s thought to have started in the southwеstern US where folks mixed up taco ingredients in a pot . It spread fаst cause it’s easy , cheap , and good for feeding a crowd .
Why Taco Soup is a Great Choice
One big reason is it’s healthy-ish : you get protein from meat , fiber from beans , and vitamins from veggies . It’s an easy way to pack a lot of good stuff in one meal .
Another bonus is that making it takes almost no brain power . Just brown meat , dump in cans and broth , then let it simmer . You’re done in under an hour , and cleanup is easy too .
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make a basic taco soup , plus some extras if you wanna mix it up :
Essential Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans
- 1 can (15 oz) corn
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with or without green chilies)
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 3 cups beef or chicken broth
Optional Ingredients for Customization
- Chopped onions
- Diced bell peppers
- Chopped jalapeños for heat
- Shredded cheese for topping
- Sour cream for a creamy finish
- Chopped cilantro for freshness
- Avocado for added richness
Recipe Section
Detailed Recipe for Taco Soup
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans
- 1 can (15 oz) corn
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with or without green chilies)
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 3 cups beef or chicken broth
- Optional toppings : shredded cheese , sour cream , chopped cilantro , avocado .
Directions
- Heat a big pot over medium heat , add the ground meat or turkey . Brown until it’s cooked and no pink bits remain , then drain off any extra fat .
- Pour in the beans , corn , diced tomatoes , taco seasoning , and broth . Stir it up so everything’s mixed .
- Bring the pot to a simmer over medium heat , then cover it . Let it cook for about 20 to 30 minutes , stirring once or twice so nothing sticks .
- Dish it into bowls and add toppings like cheese , sour cream , or avocado if you want .
Tips for Perfect Soup
- Keep an eye on it , if it’s too thin , let it cook longer uncovered so some liquid evaporates .
- If it’s too thick , just stir in more broth or water .
- Try serving with tortilla chips or cornbread for more crunch and flavor .
Health Benefits of Taco Soup
Besides tasting good , taco soup gives you a bunch of nutrients . You get lean protein , fiber that helps your gut , and vitamins from vegetables . It can be part of a balanced diet without too much trouble .
Nutritional Breakdown
A bowl of taco soup usually has about 250–300 calories , a good amount of protein , and enough fiber to keep you full .
Dietary Adaptations
You can make it vegetarian by skipping meat and adding more beans or lentils . Want low carb ? Use cauliflower rice instead of corn and pick a low sodium broth .
Serving Suggestions
Here are some ideas to make your meal even better :
Best Side Dishes
- Cornbread : soft or sweet versions both work .
- Green salad : a light salad helps cut the heaviness of the soup .
Pairing with Drinks
- Beer : a cold lager or ale goes well with the spices .
- Sparkling water with lime : for a non alcoholic twist .
Storing and Reheating Taco Soup
You can store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days . For longer storage , freeze it in freezer safe tubs for up to 3 months .
How to Reheat
Microwave : heat for 2 to 3 minutes in a bowl , stir halfway .
Stovetop : put soup in a pot over medium heat , stir until warm .
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some wrong turns people sometimes take :
Overcooking or Undercooking
If you cook too long , veggies get mushy . If you stop too soon , meat might not be safe . Stick to the times in the recipe .
Ingredient Substitutions
Be careful swapping key items . For example , fresh tomatoes taste different than canned and can change the soup’s texture .
Popular Variations of Taco Soup
You can switch things up every time you make it :
Vegetarian Taco Soup Recipe
Use a mix of beans like pinto or chickpeas and toss in extra veggies such as zucchini and carrots .
Slow Cooker vs. Instant Pot
Slow cooker : great if you want to set it and forget it for hours . Instant Pot : perfect when you need it fast .
FAQs
What is Taco Soup made of?
Ground meat , beans , corn , tomatoes , taco seasoning , broth , and toppings .
Can you freeze Taco Soup?
Yes , freeze it for up to 3 months in airtight containers or freezer bags .
How do you thicken Taco Soup?
Let it simmer uncovered to evaporate liquid or stir in a corn starch slurry (1 tablespoon corn starch mixed with 2 tablespoon water) .
What goes well with Taco Soup?
Cornbread , tortilla chips , or a green salad .
Is Taco Soup spicy?
That depends on your taco seasoning and any extra peppers you add , so you can make it mild or hot .
Taco Soup
Equipment
- 1 large pot or Dutch oven
- 1 cutting board
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 can opener
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 15 oz black beans, rinsed and drained
- 15 oz kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 15 oz corn, drained
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the canned tomatoes (with juice), black beans, kidney beans, corn, taco seasoning, beef broth, and water. Mix well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, topped with your choice of shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or tortilla chips.
