Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 300
- Protein: 20g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 30g per serving
- Fat: 10g per serving
- Fiber: 7g per serving
- Sugar: 3g per serving
- Sodium: 600mg per serving
Why Make This Easy Taco Soup
Imagine a bowl of warm, hearty soup filled with rich flavors and the comforting scents of spices wafting through your kitchen. This Easy Taco Soup is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it the perfect weeknight dinner. Packed with protein from the ground beef or turkey and a medley of beans and corn, it satisfies hunger while being easy on your schedule. Plus, customizing with your favorite toppings like creamy avocado, crispy tortilla chips, or zesty sour cream adds a delightful twist that the whole family will love. You’ll find that a single pot can yield a meal that brings everyone together.
How to Make Easy Taco Soup
Creating this Easy Taco Soup is as straightforward as it gets! Follow these simple steps and you’ll have a tasty dish ready in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 package taco seasoning
- 3 cups beef or chicken broth
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
In a large pot, brown the ground beef or turkey together with the chopped onion. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent, creating a savory base for your soup.
Step 2: Draining
Once the meat is cooked through, drain the excess fat from the pot to keep the soup light and healthy.
Step 3: Mixing
Now it’s time to bring all the flavors together! Stir in the drained corn, rinsed black beans, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and broth. This combination adds a rich texture and depth of flavor to your soup.
Step 4: Cooking
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes. This gentle simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Stir occasionally, and enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 5: Finishing
Serve the soup hot, allowing everyone to top their bowls with shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, or crunchy tortilla chips as they like. These toppings add unique textures and burst of flavors to each spoonful.
How to Serve Easy Taco Soup
This Easy Taco Soup is perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or even as meal prep for the week. It pairs wonderfully with fresh cornbread, a side salad, or tortilla wraps. Serve it in deep bowls to capture every drop, and don’t forget the toppings to elevate the experience.
How to Store Easy Taco Soup
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Expert Tips for Perfect Easy Taco Soup
- Meat Alternatives: Use ground chicken or plant-based meat for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and add more beans or vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini.
- Spice It Up: If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Great Make-Ahead Meal: The flavors improve the longer it sits, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
- Thickening the Soup: For a thicker texture, mash some of the beans before adding them.
Delicious Variations
- Southwest Style: Add a cup of quinoa or rice for a heartier meal.
- Chicken Taco Soup: Replace ground beef with shredded rotisserie chicken for an easy twist.
- Creamy Taco Soup: Stir in a bit of cream cheese or heavy cream for a richer flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use homemade taco seasoning instead of the packaged kind?
Yes! Homemade taco seasoning can add a personal touch and you can adjust the spices to your liking. -
How do I make this soup spicier?
Adding diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper will elevate the heat levels to your liking. -
What can I use instead of beef broth?
You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or chicken broth if you prefer a different flavor. -
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the meat first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. -
Is this soup gluten-free?
Check the taco seasoning package, as some brands may contain gluten. Other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Conclusion
Incorporating the vibrant flavors of taco seasoning and wholesome ingredients, this Easy Taco Soup offers comfort in every bite. Its effortless preparation makes it a go-to recipe for busy families or cozy gatherings. With endless possibilities for customization and easy storage, this dish’s charm will surely win over your taste buds and those of your loved ones. Dive into a bowl and let the delightful flavors bring warmth and joy to your table!
Print
Easy Taco Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A quick and hearty taco soup packed with protein and customizable toppings, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 package taco seasoning
- 3 cups beef or chicken broth
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef or turkey with the chopped onion until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent.
- Drain the excess fat from the pot.
- Stir in the drained corn, rinsed black beans, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and broth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes.
- Serve the soup hot, allowing everyone to top their bowls with their favorite toppings.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of broth if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soups
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
