If you love bold flavors and easy meals, this Flavorful Taco Soup Recipe is the perfect choice. I remember making it on a Friday night after a long week—it was quick, hearty, and bursting with spices that made everyone go back for seconds. Packed with beans, corn, ground meat, and classic taco seasonings, this soup delivers all the taste of tacos in a warm, cozy bowl. It’s simple to prepare, ready in under 30 minutes, and guaranteed to become a weeknight favorite.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
1 onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tbsp homemade mix
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 (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
3 cups chicken or beef broth
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips, cilantro
Instructions
In a large pot, cook ground beef or turkey with onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute to release flavors. Add black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Mix well and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes to allow flavors to blend. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with toppings like cheese, sour cream, or crunchy tortilla chips.
Substitutions
Use ground chicken instead of beef or turkey. Replace black beans with pinto beans if preferred. Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra spice. For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and double the beans.
Equipment
Large soup pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Ladle for serving
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers up to 4 days in airtight containers.
Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stove or microwave until heated through.
Top Tips
Brown meat well to add depth of flavor. Use homemade taco seasoning for fresher, richer taste. Serve with a variety of toppings so everyone can customize their bowl. Double the recipe for meal prep—it reheats beautifully.
FAQs
Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes, cook the meat first, then add everything to the slow cooker on low for 4–5 hours.
Is this soup spicy? It’s mild as written, but you can add spice with jalapeños or cayenne.
Can I make this dairy-free? Absolutely, just skip cheese and sour cream toppings.
What sides go best with taco soup? Cornbread, quesadillas, or a fresh salad are great options.