Taco Soup Gets a Cozy Upgrade
Taco Soup meets Italian comfort in this Gnocchi Taco Soup, a fun fusion where soft, pillowy gnocchi bob in a taco-seasoned broth. If you love Healthy Taco Soup that still feels indulgent, this stovetop version is weeknight-easy, filling, and wildly satisfying. Keep it meatless or add lean protein—either way, you’ll get bold flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love It
This mashup channels the spirit of Tortilla Soup Recipes—spice, tomatoes, corn—then swaps in gnocchi for noodles, creating a silky, hearty texture. It’s great for Taco Soup Stove Top nights, adaptable for Crock Pot Cooking, and perfect for Soup Ideas when your pantry is running low.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded & minced (optional)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 ½ tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- 1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed & drained
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned, drained)
- 1 lb shelf-stable or refrigerated potato gnocchi
- ½ tsp salt, black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional toppings: tortilla strips, diced avocado, shredded cheese, plain yogurt
Instructions (Stovetop)
- Sauté aromatics: Heat oil in a pot over medium. Cook onion, jalapeño, and bell pepper 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic 30 seconds.
- Bloom spices: Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano; cook 30–60 seconds.
- Simmer base: Stir in tomatoes and broth; bring to a gentle boil.
- Add beans & corn: Reduce to a simmer for 5 minutes.
- Cook gnocchi: Add gnocchi and cook per package, usually 2–3 minutes, until they float and turn tender.
- Finish: Season with salt and pepper, stir in lime juice, then ladle into bowls. Top with cilantro and your favorite garnishes.
Health Benefits
- Balanced macros: Beans provide plant protein and fiber; gnocchi offers satisfying carbs; add lean chicken or turkey if desired.
- Nutrient-dense: Tomatoes, peppers, and corn deliver vitamins A and C plus antioxidants.
- Lower saturated fat: Uses olive oil and broth; creamy feel comes from gnocchi starch, not heavy cream.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Cool fully; refrigerate up to 4 days. Gnocchi continues to soften—if planning ahead, cook and store the soup without gnocchi, then simmer in fresh gnocchi before serving. Freezes (without gnocchi) up to 2 months.
Variations
- Crockpot option (Taco Soup Recipe Crockpot): Sauté aromatics and spices first; add to slow cooker with tomatoes, broth, beans, corn. Cook low 4–5 hours; stir in gnocchi for last 20–30 minutes.
- Birria-inspired: Blend in 1–2 tsp adobo sauce for smoky depth.
- Ranch Packet: Stir in 1–2 tsp near the end for a creamy tang.
- Nacho Soup vibes: Top with crushed tortilla chips and jalapeños.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a simple salad, warm tortillas, or corn bread. Garnish with avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime to brighten the spices.
