Introduction
The best taco soup recipe is one of the most dependable dishes for busy nights, family gatherings, or anyone craving a meal packed with hearty ingredients and bold flavor. This taco soup combines ground beef, beans, tomatoes, corn, and taco seasoning into a warm, comforting bowl that feels like a cross between chili and classic Mexican taco flavors. The best taco soup recipe delivers delicious results using everyday pantry staples, making it a favorite for meal prep, quick dinners, and cold-weather comfort food. Many home cooks look for a simple way to achieve authentic taco flavors without complicated steps or long simmering times, and this recipe accomplishes exactly that. The best taco soup recipe is also versatile you can prepare it as a mild weeknight dinner, a spicy Mexican taco soup variation, or even a famous 7-can taco soup. With rich broth, tender beef, and customizable toppings, taco soup continues to be one of the most popular soup recipes for all occasions. By the end of this article, you will learn everything needed to prepare the best taco soup recipe, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, helpful cooking tips, and common questions answered.
Table of Contents
The Best Taco Soup Recipe (Easy Taco Soup for Every Occasion)
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A hearty taco soup made with seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and bold spices.
Ingredients
Ground beef
Yellow onion
Garlic
Kidney beans
Black beans
Corn
Diced tomatoes
Rotel
Tomato sauce
Beef broth
Taco seasoning
Ranch seasoning
Olive oil
Salt
Pepper
Cilantro
Shredded cheese
Sour cream
Instructions
1. Brown the ground beef.
2. Add onion and garlic.
3. Stir in beans, corn, tomatoes, and Rotel.
4. Add broth and seasonings.
5. Simmer until flavors blend.
6. Serve with toppings.
Notes
For a 7-can version, combine all canned ingredients and simmer; adjust heat with extra spices.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican American
Ingredients
Table: Ingredients for the Best Taco Soup Recipe
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Yellow onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 |
| Kidney beans, drained | 1 can |
| Black beans, drained | 1 can |
| Corn (frozen or canned) | 1 cup or 1 can |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 can |
| Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies) | 1 can |
| Tomato sauce | 1 cup |
| Beef broth | 3 cups |
| Taco seasoning | 2 tbsp |
| Ranch seasoning (optional) | 1 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
| Cilantro, cheese, sour cream (for serving) | Optional |
Step-by-Step Instructions and Helpful Tips
1. Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it into small pieces as it cooks. Continue browning until no pink remains.
Tip: Drain excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
2. Add Aromatics
Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Tip: Sautéing the onions enhances the overall depth of flavor.
3. Add Beans, Corn, and Tomatoes
Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, Rotel, and tomato sauce. Mix well to incorporate everything evenly.
Tip: For a 7-can taco soup version, simply add all canned ingredients without draining except for the beans.
4. Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle in the taco seasoning and ranch seasoning if using. Stir to dissolve the spices thoroughly.
Tip: Homemade taco seasoning works perfectly if you prefer to avoid packaged blends.
5. Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce to low heat. Allow it to simmer for 20–25 minutes so the flavors blend and intensify.
Tip: The longer the soup simmers, the richer the taste becomes.
6. Adjust Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust salt, pepper, or spice level. Add more taco seasoning or a pinch of cayenne if you like extra heat.
Tip: A squeeze of lime before serving brightens the flavor.
7. Serve with Toppings
Ladle the soup into bowls and finish with shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, or crushed tortilla chips.
Tip: Toppings add both texture and creaminess don’t skip them.
Conclusion
The best taco soup recipe stands out for its simplicity, bold flavor, and comforting texture. With basic pantry staples, ground beef, and classic taco spices, this soup offers a satisfying meal that comes together quickly and appeals to all ages. Whether you prepare the original taco soup recipe, create a spicy Mexican taco soup version, or opt for the effortless 7-can taco soup method, the results are consistently delicious. Flexible, hearty, and customizable, taco soup remains one of the most dependable soup recipes for weeknight dinners and large gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What ingredients do I need for taco soup?
Taco soup typically includes ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, broth, and taco seasoning. This combination creates a flavorful and hearty soup that is easy to prepare.
2. Can I make taco soup in a crockpot?
Yes, brown the beef first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
3. How can I make taco soup spicier?
Add hot Rotel, jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or spicy taco seasoning for more heat.
4. Is taco soup good for meal prep?
Absolutely. Taco soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days and freezes easily for future meals.