Taco Soup with Ground Beef

Taco Soup with Ground Beef is a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that captures all the delicious flavors of a taco in a comforting soup form. This soup combines seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and classic taco spices in a savory broth, creating a meal that is both satisfying and filling. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or family gatherings, this soup is simple to prepare and delivers bold, layered flavors in every spoonful.

The beauty of this recipe is in its versatility. You can adjust the spice level, add extra vegetables, or top it with your favorite taco-inspired garnishes such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips. It’s a crowd-pleaser that is both comforting and customizable.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings the flavors of tacos into a warm, comforting soup that is easy to make and extremely versatile. The combination of beans, corn, tomatoes, and seasoned ground beef creates a rich and hearty meal with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy nights because the ingredients come together quickly, and the slow-simmered flavors make it taste like it’s been cooking all day.

I also appreciate that this recipe is adaptable to different tastes. You can make it mild for kids or add extra spice for adults, and it pairs well with a variety of toppings. The leftovers taste even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This Taco Soup is a must-try because it combines ease, flavor, and comfort in one dish. It’s a quick, weeknight-friendly recipe that satisfies the craving for tacos in a warm, hearty soup form.

The versatility allows you to customize ingredients, spice levels, and toppings, making it ideal for family meals, casual entertaining, or meal prep. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe that delivers both convenience and deliciousness.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Course: Main Course / Soup
Cuisine: American / Tex-Mex
Calories: Approximately 320–350 calories per serving

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
• 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips, chopped cilantro

Cooking Directions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess fat.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Transfer the beef mixture to a large pot or Dutch oven.
4. Add black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
5. Add taco seasoning, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
6. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add diced onion and cook until soft. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Add Garlic
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Transfer to Pot
Move the cooked beef and onion mixture to a large pot or Dutch oven.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Beans
Add black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.

Step 5: Season
Add taco seasoning, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly.

Step 6: Simmer
Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow flavors to meld.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more spices or salt if desired.

Step 8: Serve
Serve hot with optional toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips, or chopped cilantro.

How to Serve

Serve Taco Soup hot in bowls, garnished with your favorite toppings. Pair it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat.
Drain and rinse canned beans to reduce sodium.
Adjust spice levels by increasing or decreasing chili powder or adding diced jalapeños.
Simmer for longer to deepen the flavor.
Leftovers taste even better as the flavors continue to develop overnight.

Variations

Chicken Taco Soup: Substitute cooked shredded chicken for ground beef.
Vegetarian Taco Soup: Omit meat and add extra beans or vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes.
Spicy Taco Soup: Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili powder.
Cheesy Taco Soup: Stir in shredded cheese at the end of cooking for a creamy texture.
Slow Cooker Taco Soup: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

Freezing and Storage Time

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freezing: Cool completely and transfer to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Special Equipment Needed

Large skillet
Large pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board and knife
Measuring spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

Conclusion

Taco Soup with Ground Beef is a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that brings the essence of tacos into a comforting soup form. Its combination of seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, and tomatoes creates a meal that is both filling and versatile. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family gatherings, this soup is a must-try for anyone seeking a comforting, flavorful, and customizable meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family.