Taco soup is the perfect comfort food—warm, hearty, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a meal to feed a crowd, or a dish to warm up on a cold day, taco soup is the answer. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to make, requiring minimal prep time and ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll go through everything you need to know about making taco soup, including ingredient variations, slow cooker instructions, and serving suggestions. By the end of this article, you’ll have a go-to recipe that will become a family favorite.
What is Taco Soup?
Taco soup is a Tex-Mex-inspired dish that combines the flavors of a taco with the heartiness of a soup. It typically includes ground beef (or another protein), beans, corn, tomatoes, and taco seasoning. The soup is simmered to perfection and can be topped with your favorite taco toppings such as sour cream, cheese, and tortilla chips.
Taco soup is highly versatile, allowing for modifications based on dietary preferences. You can make it vegetarian, use a different type of meat, or add extra veggies for more nutrition.
Ingredients for the Best Taco Soup
The beauty of taco soup is its simplicity. The following ingredients form the base of a classic taco soup, but we’ll also explore variations later in the article.
Main Ingredients
- Ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or plant-based substitute) – 1 pound
- Onion (diced) – 1 medium
- Garlic (minced) – 2 cloves
- Canned diced tomatoes (with juice) – 1 can (14.5 oz)
- Tomato sauce – 1 can (8 oz)
- Canned black beans (drained and rinsed) – 1 can (15 oz)
- Canned kidney beans (drained and rinsed) – 1 can (15 oz)
- Canned corn (drained) – 1 can (15 oz)
- Beef broth or chicken broth – 2 cups
- Taco seasoning – 1 packet (or homemade, see below)
- Ranch dressing mix – 1 packet (optional, adds a creamy twist)
- Chili powder – 1 teaspoon (optional, for extra spice)
- Salt and pepper – To taste
Toppings (Optional but Recommended)
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Avocado slices
- Cilantro
- Tortilla chips or strips
- Sliced jalapeños
- Fresh lime wedges
How to Make Taco Soup
Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain any excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onions and minced garlic to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Ingredients
Stir in the canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, corn, broth, taco seasoning, ranch dressing mix (if using), chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to combine.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the better the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Serve with Toppings
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips, or your favorite toppings. Serve hot and enjoy!
Slow Cooker and Instant Pot Instructions
If you want a hands-off approach, you can use a slow cooker or an Instant Pot to make taco soup.
Slow Cooker Method
- Brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic on the stovetop.
- Transfer the meat mixture to a slow cooker.
- Add all other ingredients (except toppings) and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve with toppings and enjoy!
Instant Pot Method
- Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Brown the meat, then add onions and garlic.
- Stir in all other ingredients.
- Lock the lid and set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook (Manual) on High for 10 minutes.
- Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then do a quick release.
- Serve hot with toppings.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
Taco soup is incredibly flexible, allowing for multiple variations:
Protein Options
- Turkey or chicken – Use ground turkey or shredded chicken instead of beef.
- Vegetarian – Skip the meat and add extra beans or lentils. You can also use plant-based crumbles.
- Sausage or chorizo – Adds a spicy and smoky twist to the soup.
Bean Options
- Instead of black beans and kidney beans, try pinto beans, garbanzo beans, or a mix of your favorites.
Spicy Kick
- Add diced jalapeños, extra chili powder, or a pinch of cayenne for more heat.
Creamy Version
- Stir in cream cheese or heavy cream for a richer, creamy taco soup.
Low-Carb/Keto Version
- Skip the beans and corn and add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or cauliflower.
Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe
If you prefer to make your own seasoning, mix:
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne (optional)
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
How to Store Taco Soup
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat Taco Soup
- Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
- Slow Cooker: Reheat on low for 1-2 hours if feeding a crowd.
What to Serve with Taco Soup
Taco soup is delicious on its own, but these side dishes take it to another level:
- Cornbread – A classic pairing that soaks up the broth beautifully.
- Quesadillas – Cheese quesadillas make a perfect side or dipping option.
- Mexican Rice – A great way to make the meal more filling.
- Guacamole & Salsa – Fresh dips to complement the soup.
- Crispy Tortilla Chips – Perfect for crunch and texture.
Why You’ll Love This Taco Soup Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes with minimal effort.
- Customizable: Easily adapt to your taste or dietary needs.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Freezes well and reheats beautifully.
- Great for Crowds: A budget-friendly dish that serves multiple people.
Final Thoughts
Taco soup is the ultimate comfort food with bold flavors and simple ingredients. Whether you make it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or an Instant Pot, this recipe is sure to be a hit with your family.
Give it a try, experiment with toppings, and make it your own. If you love tacos, this soup will quickly become one of your go-to meals.
Let us know how your taco soup turned out—happy cooking! 🌮🥣
