Taco Soup is a flavorful, hearty meal that brings the best of Tex-Mex comfort food to your table in one simple pot. Packed with ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and spices, this recipe is a family favorite that feels like tacos in soup form. If you love easy, healthy taco soup recipes that deliver bold flavor without much effort, this one’s for you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this classic taco soup, gather the following:
- 1 lb lean ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 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 (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 3 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, avocado, sour cream, and tortilla chips for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the meat – In a large pot over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add garlic and seasoning – Stir in garlic, taco seasoning, chili powder, and cumin. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add beans, corn, and tomatoes – Mix in black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and tomatoes with green chilies. Stir well.
- Pour in broth – Add broth and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
- Simmer – Reduce heat and let the soup simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes to deepen the flavors.
- Serve with toppings – Ladle into bowls and garnish with cheese, avocado, sour cream, cilantro, and tortilla chips.
Health Benefits of Taco Soup
While taco soup feels indulgent, it can be made quite healthy with the right ingredients:
- High in Protein – Lean ground beef or turkey provides a protein boost.
- Packed with Fiber – Beans and corn add fiber to support digestion and keep you full.
- Nutrient-Rich Vegetables – Tomatoes, chilies, and corn bring antioxidants and vitamins.
- Customizable & Light – Using broth instead of cream keeps it lower in fat while still flavorful.
Why Taco Soup is Perfect for Weeknights
This recipe is quick, hearty, and versatile—exactly what you need for busy nights. It’s easy to prepare on the stovetop in under 40 minutes, but it also adapts perfectly for crock pot cooking. Just brown the beef and onions, then add everything to your slow cooker and let it simmer for 4–6 hours on low. Dinner practically makes itself!
It’s also one of those meals everyone loves to customize. Each person can top their bowl with different garnishes—cheese for the kids, avocado for healthy fats, or extra spice for those who like heat.
Variations and Soup Ideas
- Healthy Taco Soup – Use ground turkey and low-sodium broth for a lighter version.
- Crockpot Taco Soup – Combine all ingredients in your slow cooker after browning the meat and cook low and slow.
- Spicy Birria-Inspired Soup – Add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for smoky heat.
- Cheesy Nacho Twist – Stir in shredded cheddar for a creamy, nacho soup-style variation.
- Vegetarian Option – Skip the meat and add extra beans or quinoa.
Conclusion
Classic Taco Soup is a recipe you’ll return to all year long. It’s hearty enough for winter, yet light enough to enjoy any season, making it one of the most versatile soup ideas to keep in your recipe box. Whether you make it on the stove top for a quick weeknight dinner or let it simmer in the crock pot for a hands-off meal, this taco soup will always deliver bold, comforting flavor.
Save this recipe now so you’re ready for a cozy, satisfying bowl whenever the craving strikes!
