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taco soup recipe

Easy & Hearty Taco Soup Recipe for Weeknight Dinners


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade blend)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for extra heat)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (10 oz) Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
  • 2 cups beef or chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips, cilantro, lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Brown the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and cook until soft, about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Season: Sprinkle in taco seasoning, cumin, and chili powder. Stir well to coat the meat and onions.
  4. Add the Good Stuff: Pour in the black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, Rotel, and broth. Stir to combine everything.
  5. Simmer: Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Taste and Adjust: Season with salt and pepper to your liking. If you like it spicier, add hot sauce or extra chili powder.
  7. Serve: Ladle into bowls and pile on your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • Meat Swaps: Use ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even lentils.
  • Bean Options: Pinto or garbanzo beans work great too.
  • Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
  • Creamy Version: Stir in a half cup of cream cheese or heavy cream before serving.
  • Slow Cooker: Brown the meat first, then toss everything in the slow cooker on low for 6 hours.