Easy Taco Soup: The Ultimate Weeknight Dinner Recipe

Easy Taco Soup: the weeknight dinner champion you didn’t know you needed! Imagine a bowl brimming with savory, spiced ground beef, tender beans, juicy tomatoes, and the satisfying crunch of your favorite taco toppings. This isn’t just soup; it’s a fiesta in a bowl, ready in under 30 minutes.

While the exact origins of taco soup are debated, its popularity exploded in the latter half of the 20th century, becoming a staple in potlucks and family gatherings across America. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of Tex-Mex flavors and the desire for quick, comforting meals. Think of it as a deconstructed taco, offering all the familiar tastes without the fuss of assembling individual shells.

What makes easy taco soup so irresistible? It’s the perfect blend of convenience and flavor. The hearty combination of protein, vegetables, and spices creates a satisfying and well-rounded meal. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can customize it with your preferred toppings, from shredded cheese and sour cream to avocado and crispy tortilla strips. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or simply someone who appreciates a delicious and effortless dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, undrained
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 packet ranch dressing mix
• 4 cups beef broth
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips, cilantro

Preparing the Meat and Vegetables:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. As it cooks, break it up with a spoon until it’s crumbled.
2. Once the ground beef is browned, drain off any excess grease. This step is crucial for preventing a greasy soup. I usually tilt the pot carefully and use a spoon to hold back the beef while pouring the grease into a heat-safe container.
3. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the pot with the ground beef. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. You’ll know they’re ready when the onions become translucent and the peppers are slightly tender.

Adding the Beans, Corn, and Tomatoes:

1. Now it’s time to add the beans! Pour in the undrained kidney beans, pinto beans, and black beans. Don’t drain them – the liquid adds flavor and helps thicken the soup.
2. Next, add the undrained can of whole kernel corn. Again, the liquid is your friend here!
3. Pour in the undrained can of diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel). If you’re sensitive to spice, you can use a mild version or substitute with plain diced tomatoes.
4. Add the can of tomato sauce. This will give the soup a rich, tomatoey base.

Seasoning and Simmering:

1. Stir in the taco seasoning and ranch dressing mix. Make sure everything is well combined. The aroma at this point should be amazing!
2. Pour in the beef broth. Stir to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. I often let it simmer for an hour or even longer if I have the time.
4. Give the soup a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add a little extra taco seasoning, salt, or pepper to suit your preferences. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!

Serving and Toppings:

1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Now for the fun part: toppings! Get creative and add your favorites. Some popular choices include shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend are all great), sour cream, diced avocado, crushed tortilla chips, and fresh cilantro. A dollop of plain Greek yogurt is also a healthy and delicious alternative to sour cream.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy! This soup is also fantastic reheated, so don’t worry about leftovers. In fact, I think it tastes even better the next day.

Tips and Variations:

This taco soup recipe is incredibly versatile, and there are many ways to customize it to your liking. Here are a few ideas:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the soup for extra heat. You could also use a spicier taco seasoning.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the ground beef and add an extra can of beans or some diced vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or celery. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), corn kernels (fresh or frozen), or even some chopped spinach or kale towards the end of the cooking time.
• Use different types of meat: Ground turkey or ground chicken can be substituted for ground beef. You could also use shredded chicken or leftover cooked beef.
• Slow cooker version: Brown the ground beef and vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
• Instant Pot version: Brown the ground beef and vegetables using the sauté function. Then, add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes.
• Creamy taco soup: Stir in a block of cream cheese or a can of condensed cream of mushroom soup during the last few minutes of cooking for a creamier texture.
• Add rice or quinoa: Stir in cooked rice or quinoa during the last few minutes of cooking to make the soup more filling.
• Make it a dip: Reduce the amount of beef broth to create a thicker consistency, perfect for serving as a dip with tortilla chips.

Make Ahead and Storage:

Taco soup is a great make-ahead meal. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually meld together and improve over time. It’s also freezer-friendly. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Nutritional Information:

The nutritional information for this taco soup will vary depending on the specific ingredients you use and the portion size. However, it’s generally a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins. It’s also relatively low in fat, especially if you use lean ground beef and drain off any excess grease. To further reduce the fat content, you can use ground turkey or chicken breast instead of ground beef. Be mindful of the sodium content, as taco seasoning and canned beans can be high in sodium. You can use low-sodium beans and taco seasoning to reduce the sodium content. Always check the nutrition labels of the ingredients you use for the most accurate information.

Serving Suggestions:

This taco soup is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of cornbread, a grilled cheese sandwich, or a simple salad. It’s perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a game day gathering. It’s also a great option for meal prepping, as it’s easy to make a large batch and portion it out for lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Why This Recipe Works:

This recipe is a winner because it’s incredibly easy to make, uses simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand, and is packed with flavor. The combination of ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and taco seasoning creates a hearty and satisfying soup that everyone will love. The ranch dressing mix adds a unique tanginess that elevates the flavor profile. The simmering process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and complex taste. And the customizable toppings allow everyone to personalize their bowl to their liking. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion.

Troubleshooting:

Even with a simple recipe like this, sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are a few common issues and how to fix them:

• Soup is too thick: Add more beef broth until you reach your desired consistency.
• Soup is too thin: Simmer the soup uncovered for a longer period of time to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water to thicken it.
• Soup is too bland: Add more taco seasoning, salt, pepper, or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the flavors.
• Soup is too spicy: Add a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt to each bowl to cool it down. You can also add a little bit of sugar or honey to balance the spice.
• Ground beef is tough: Make sure you don’t overcook the ground beef. Brown it until it’s just cooked through, then remove it from the pot and set it aside. Add it back to the pot after the vegetables have softened.

Variations on Toppings:

While I mentioned some common toppings, the possibilities are truly endless! Here are some more ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Conclusion:

This Easy Taco Soup isn’t just another recipe; it’s a weeknight savior, a crowd-pleaser, and a flavor explosion all rolled into one comforting bowl. I truly believe you’ll find yourself making this again and again. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. It’s quick enough for those busy evenings when you’re short on time but craving something hearty and satisfying. And honestly, who doesn’t love a good taco? This soup captures all those beloved taco flavors in a warm, comforting, and easy-to-eat format. But beyond the convenience, it’s the taste that truly makes this soup a must-try. The combination of seasoned ground beef, flavorful beans, juicy tomatoes, and that perfect blend of taco spices creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s a fiesta in a bowl! And the best part? You can customize it to your heart’s content. Looking for serving suggestions? The possibilities are endless! I personally love topping mine with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, and a generous handful of crunchy tortilla chips. A squeeze of lime juice adds a bright, zesty finish. For those who like a little heat, a dash of your favorite hot sauce or a sprinkle of diced jalapeños will kick things up a notch. You could even add a scoop of guacamole for extra creaminess and flavor. And don’t be afraid to experiment with variations! If you’re vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and add extra beans or vegetables like corn, zucchini, or bell peppers. For a leaner version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also adjust the amount of taco seasoning to suit your taste preferences. Some people like it mild, while others prefer a spicier kick. Feel free to play around with the ingredients and create your own signature version of this Easy Taco Soup. Consider adding a can of drained and rinsed black beans for a richer, earthier flavor. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a can of diced green chilies for a subtle smoky heat. A squeeze of lime juice at the end brightens up all the flavors and adds a refreshing touch. This recipe is also incredibly freezer-friendly, making it perfect for meal prepping. Simply make a big batch, let it cool completely, and then divide it into individual portions for easy lunches or dinners. It’s a lifesaver on those days when you just don’t have time to cook. I’m confident that this Easy Taco Soup will become a staple in your recipe repertoire. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort and deliciousness. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear what you think and any variations you tried. Happy cooking! And remember, the best recipes are the ones that are shared and enjoyed with loved ones. So, gather your friends and family, and let’s make some memories together, one bowl of delicious taco soup at a time. Print