If you’re searching for a flavorful, comforting meal that comes together in just about half an hour, look no further than this Easy Taco Soup. Packed with ground beef, black beans, corn, and zesty tomatoes, this soup bursts with classic taco flavors in a hearty, one-pot wonder. It’s the kind of dish you’ll turn to on busy weeknights, chilly weekends, or whenever you crave something that feels cozy but requires minimal effort. Let’s dive in and discover why Easy Taco Soup is about to be your new favorite go-to dinner!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about simple pantry staples that create deep flavor and a satisfying meal. Each ingredient plays an important role, adding either richness, crunch, or a colorful pop. These are the essentials that bring Easy Taco Soup to life!
- Ground Beef: The heartiness and protein come from classic ground beef, which stays juicy and savory in the soup.
- Onion (diced): Onions add sweetness and depth, melting perfectly into the broth as they cook.
- Garlic (minced): Just two cloves bring an aromatic backbone and a hint of warmth.
- Black Beans (drained and rinsed): These give extra texture, plant-based protein, and a creamy bite.
- Corn (drained): Sweet pops of corn brighten every spoonful and give subtle crunch.
- Diced Tomatoes: Regular diced tomatoes create a fragrant, juicy base for the soup.
- Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: This adds tangy tomato flavor and a gentle kick of spice.
- Taco Seasoning Packet: One packet delivers all the classic taco seasonings in the right proportions—zero measuring required!
- Ranch Dressing Mix Packet: The “secret ingredient” for a savory, creamy finish that surprises every time.
- Beef Broth: Rich and hearty, it pulls everything together in a delicious, sippable broth.
- Salt and Pepper: Start with a little, taste, and adjust to your liking once it’s cooked.
- Optional Toppings: Shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, and tortilla chips all make memorable finishing touches.
How to Make Easy Taco Soup
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Begin by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and let it cook, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. This gives your soup a rich, meaty base and guarantees plenty of savory flavor in every bite. If there’s excess fat, drain most of it away to keep your soup from becoming greasy, but leave just a touch for flavor.
Step 2: Soften the Onion and Garlic
Add the diced onion right into the browned beef. Let it cook for three or four minutes, gently softening and turning sweet. Follow up with the minced garlic, letting that sizzle for about 30 seconds—just until fragrant. You’ll smell those classic taco aromas filling your kitchen already!
Step 3: Add the Beans, Corn, and Tomatoes
Pour in your drained black beans and corn, along with both the regular diced tomatoes and the tomatoes with green chilies. This combination creates that signature taco soup base—chunky, colorful, and slightly spicy. Every spoonful is loaded with something delicious.
Step 4: Stir in Seasonings, Mixes, and Broth
Now it’s time for the flavor boosters! Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and ranch dressing mix, then pour in the beef broth. Stir everything together until well combined. The seasonings and mixes melt into the broth and vegetables, creating a luxurious, zesty soup with a creamy undertone.
Step 5: Simmer and Finish
Bring the whole mixture up to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat and let it simmer, uncovered, for 20 to 25 minutes. This gives the flavors time to mingle and deepen. When it’s ready, give it a taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. That’s it—your Easy Taco Soup is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Taco Soup
Garnishes
Garnishing is where Easy Taco Soup goes from tasty to truly restaurant-worthy. Top each bowl with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese (it melts beautifully on top), a dollop of sour cream for creaminess, thinly sliced jalapeños if you love heat, and a handful of chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness. And don’t forget the tortilla chips—crunchy, salty, and perfect for scooping up every last bite!
Side Dishes
This soup is hearty on its own, but if you want to make it a feast, serve alongside warm cornbread, a simple green salad, or classic Mexican rice. Fluffy dinner rolls or even crispy quesadillas also make perfect pairings for sopping up the flavorful broth.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling fancy, serve Easy Taco Soup in bread bowls for an edible, cozy twist. Try assembling a “taco soup bar” for gatherings—set out bowls of toppings and let everyone customize. For parties, offer smaller portions in cups or mugs for a fun appetizer or game day snack!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Taco Soup stores beautifully, making it fantastic for meal prep. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days, and the flavors only get better as they meld!
Freezing
This soup also freezes like a dream. Spoon portions into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little room for expansion. Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready for a quick meal, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, pour the Easy Taco Soup into a pot and warm gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. For single servings, the microwave works perfectly—just heat in bursts, stirring between each, until steaming. Add your favorite toppings and dive in!
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! This recipe is wonderfully flexible. Ground turkey or chicken will both work beautifully, making the soup a bit lighter while still packing in plenty of flavor thanks to the seasonings and broth.
Is Easy Taco Soup gluten-free?
Easy Taco Soup can be gluten-free—as long as your taco seasoning and ranch dressing mix are certified gluten-free. Always double-check those packets if you or your guests avoid gluten, because some brands add wheat as a thickener.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Simply brown the meat first, then add everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. It’s a genius way to have your house smelling amazing and dinner ready when you are.
What can I do if I want the soup spicier?
If you crave extra heat, use a hot taco seasoning packet, add extra jalapeños (fresh or pickled), or sprinkle in a bit of chili powder or hot sauce during simmering. You can also top your bowl with spicy salsa for a kick!
Can I double this recipe for a party?
Definitely! Just use a larger pot and double all ingredient quantities. Easy Taco Soup is perfect for game days, potlucks, or anytime you need to feed a crowd without any fuss.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a flavorful, quick dinner that everyone will love, don’t wait another day to try Easy Taco Soup. It’s satisfying, customizable, and so easy that you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again. Gather your toppings, grab your biggest soup bowls, and get ready to make some dinnertime magic!
Print
Easy Taco Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course, Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and flavorful Easy Taco Soup recipe that is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This one-pot wonder is packed with ground beef, beans, corn, and a variety of seasonings for a delicious Mexican-inspired dish.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Soup Base:
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning
- 1 (1 oz) packet ranch dressing mix
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Sliced jalapeños
- Chopped cilantro
- Tortilla chips
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion and cook until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add Ingredients: Combine beans, corn, tomatoes, seasonings, and broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20–25 minutes.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and season with salt and pepper. Serve hot with toppings.
Notes
- For added heat, use hot taco seasoning or extra jalapeños.
- This soup can be prepared in a slow cooker for convenience.
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