Easy Taco Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that comes together in no time, this Easy Taco Soup Recipe is the perfect solution. Bursting with robust flavors and simple ingredients, this soup is ideal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or when you just want a comforting meal with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This taco soup is a go-to recipe for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple steps and about 30 minutes of your time. The rich combination of ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices delivers a satisfying meal that’s both filling and flavorful. Plus, it’s highly customizable—you can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

Ingredients

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this Easy Taco Soup so delicious:

• Lean Ground Beef (1 pound/500g): Provides a rich, savory base. For a lighter option, you can use ground turkey or chicken.
• Small Onion, Chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
• Garlic (4-5 cloves, minced): Enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic qualities.
• Beef or Chicken Broth (4 cups/946ml): Forms the soup’s liquid base. Choose chicken broth for a lighter taste.
• Corn (15 oz/432g, drained): Adds sweetness and texture. You can use fresh or frozen corn as well.
• Black Beans (15 oz/425g, drained and rinsed): Adds protein and a hearty texture.
• Chili Beans in Chili Sauce (15 oz/425g): Infuses the soup with a mild heat and robust flavor.
• Crushed Tomatoes (28 oz/793g): Adds richness and a slightly tangy taste.
• Chopped Green Chiles (4 oz/113g): Offers a subtle heat and flavor.
• Spices (Chili Powder, Cumin, Oregano, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder): These spices are essential for creating the signature taco flavor.
• Salt, Pepper, and Cayenne Pepper: Adjust to taste for seasoning and heat.

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Preparation

Stove Top Version:

1. Cook the Ground Beef and Onions: In a large dutch oven or pot, brown the ground beef and chopped onions over medium heat. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are softened.
2. Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Combine Remaining Ingredients: Add the broth, corn, black beans, chili beans, crushed tomatoes, chopped green chiles, and all the spices. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Simmer the Soup: Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. For deeper flavor, you can let it simmer longer—up to 30 minutes.
5. Serve: Once done, ladle the soup into bowls and serve with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, or tortilla chips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Ground Beef: Browning the beef too long can make it dry. Aim for just enough cooking to render it no longer pink.
• Forgetting to Drain the Beans: Not draining and rinsing the beans can result in a thinner, less flavorful soup.
• Under-seasoning: Don’t be shy with the spices. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving your Easy Taco Soup, presentation is key. Here are some tips to make it even more appealing:

• Toppings: Enhance the soup with a variety of toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, diced avocados, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. These not only add flavor but also create a visually appealing dish.
• Tortilla Chips: Serve with a side of tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast. You can either dip them into the soup or crumble them on top.
• Bread or Cornbread: Consider serving with warm bread or cornbread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Equipment Needed

To make this recipe, you’ll need:

• Large Dutch Oven or Pot: For cooking the soup.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the ingredients.
• Ladle: To serve the soup.
• Chopping Board and Knife: For preparing the onion and garlic.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Easy Taco Soup stores well, making it a great option for meal prep:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Recipe Variations

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some variations to try:

• Vegetarian Taco Soup: Omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth. Add extra beans or vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the corn and beans, and add more vegetables like cauliflower or bell peppers to keep it low in carbs.
• Spicy Taco Soup: Add more cayenne pepper or fresh jalapeños for an extra kick.

FAQ

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.

How long does it last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, this soup will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook them down longer to achieve the same consistency as canned crushed tomatoes.

Conclusion

This Easy Taco Soup Recipe is a fantastic addition to any meal plan. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for those who love a good, hearty soup. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or preparing it for meal prep, it’s sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and family. Subscribe to our blog for more delicious, easy-to-make recipes!

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