Easy Taco Soup

There’s nothing like a big, steaming bowl of soup that feels cozy, comforting, and just a little indulgent. Enter Easy Taco Soup—a savory, hearty blend of seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, and tangy tomatoes, all kissed with a homemade taco seasoning blend. This soup hits all the right notes: spicy, smoky, savory, and full of flavor without being overwhelming.

It’s the kind of dish that makes your kitchen smell incredible while giving you a warm hug in every spoonful. Trust me, this soup isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. Perfect for busy weeknights, game-day gatherings, or any day you need a little comfort in a bowl.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Versatile

This soup is a total multitasker. Serve it as a hearty lunch, a family dinner, or even as a party-friendly appetizer. Leftovers? They taste even better the next day, so plan on making extra.

Budget-Friendly

Loaded with pantry staples like beans, corn, and canned tomatoes, this soup is inexpensive to make yet packs a ton of flavor. Ground beef and a few simple spices are all you need to create something extraordinary.

Quick and Easy

No need for hours in the kitchen. With a quick homemade taco seasoning and a one-pot approach, you’ll have this hearty soup bubbling away in under 30 minutes.

Customizable

Like it spicy? Add extra jalapeños or chili flakes. Prefer it milder? Skip the heat or adjust to taste. Top it with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, tortilla chips, or a dollop of sour cream.

Crowd-Pleasing

This soup is a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike. Cheesy, savory, and packed with texture, it’s a flavor combo that never fails.

Recipe Origin

Taco soup is a beloved American comfort food inspired by the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine. It’s a modern twist on tacos in a bowl—savory ground beef, hearty beans, sweet corn, and plenty of spices all swimming together in a rich, tomato-based broth. The homemade taco seasoning takes it up a notch, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Can opener

Ingredients in Easy Taco Soup

Here’s why each component matters in this hearty, flavor-packed soup:

Ground Beef

The main protein. Browning it brings out savory, meaty flavor that forms the base of the soup.

Jalapeño

Adds a gentle kick of heat and a subtle vegetal freshness. Dice it finely for even distribution.

Yellow Onion

Provides a sweet, aromatic depth that balances the spiciness and richness of the beef.

Black Beans and Pinto Beans

Offer heartiness and fiber, making the soup filling and nutritious. They also add a lovely, creamy texture.

Corn

Sweet, juicy kernels add color, texture, and a touch of natural sweetness to the savory broth.

Diced Tomatoes with Chiles

Bring acidity, flavor, and a gentle chili heat that complements the other spices beautifully.

Garlic

A flavor superstar, infusing the soup with aromatic warmth.

Tomato Sauce

Thickens the soup and adds a smooth, tangy richness.

Taco Seasoning Blend

A custom mix of spices—ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic, and more—that transforms simple ingredients into a flavor explosion.

Beef Broth

Keeps the soup rich, savory, and comforting, while adding moisture and body.

Kosher Salt and Black Pepper

Enhance all the flavors and ensure each bite tastes balanced.

Cotija Cheese

A salty, crumbly topping that adds a luxurious finish to each bowl.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Here’s how to bring this vibrant soup to life:

Make the Taco Seasoning

Combine cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, dehydrated onion, onion powder, oregano, rice flour or cornstarch, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This blend will flavor your soup perfectly.

Brown the Beef

In a large soup pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if desired.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add diced onion and jalapeño to the beef. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add Beans, Corn, and Tomatoes

Stir in the black beans, pinto beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with chiles. Mix well to combine.

Incorporate Taco Seasoning

Add 3 tablespoons of your homemade taco seasoning to the mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure every bite is flavorful.

Add Broth and Tomato Sauce

Pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce. Stir to combine, and bring the soup to a gentle simmer.

Simmer to Blend Flavors

Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more broth if needed to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Finish with Cotija Cheese

Serve the soup hot in bowls, sprinkled with cotija cheese for a salty, creamy finish. Optional: garnish with cilantro, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8–10
• Calories per serving: ~320
• Preparation Time
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Easy Taco Soup

• Toppings Galore: Cotija cheese, shredded cheddar, sour cream, or sliced avocado elevate the dish.
• With Chips: Serve with tortilla chips for dipping.
• With Rice: Spoon over cooked rice for a heartier meal.
• As a Party Dish: Serve in a slow cooker at gatherings for self-serve taco night fun.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Prep Ahead: Dice veggies and prepare taco seasoning in advance. Store in airtight containers.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Variations to Try

• Chicken or Turkey: Substitute ground beef for ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
• Vegetarian: Skip the meat and double the beans or add diced sweet potatoes.
• Extra Spicy: Add chopped serranos, jalapeño seeds, or a dash of hot sauce.
• Cheesy: Stir in shredded cheese while simmering for a creamy, cheesy soup.

Additional Tips

• Use fresh garlic for a more robust flavor.
• Toast the spices for a minute in the pot before adding the liquid to boost aroma.
• For a smoother soup, partially mash some beans while cooking.
• Adjust the thickness by adding more broth for a lighter soup or letting it simmer longer for a thicker consistency.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use pre-made taco seasoning?
A1: Yes, but homemade seasoning is fresher and allows you to adjust salt and spice levels.

Q2: Can I make this vegetarian?
A2: Absolutely—omit the beef and use extra beans, lentils, or diced vegetables.

Q3: Can I freeze this soup?
A3: Yes, freeze cooled soup in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Q4: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A4: Definitely! Brown the beef and sauté veggies first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours.

Q5: How spicy is this soup?
A5: Mild to medium, depending on your jalapeño and chili powder. Adjust to taste.

Q6: Can I use canned beans without rinsing?
A6: You can, but draining and rinsing reduces excess salt and improves texture.

Q7: How do I make it thicker?
A7: Mash a few beans or reduce the broth slightly while simmering.

Q8: What toppings work best?
A8: Cotija, shredded cheddar, sour cream, avocado, tortilla strips, or cilantro.

Q9: Can I make this in advance?
A9: Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Q10: Can I substitute beef broth with chicken or vegetable broth?
A10: Absolutely. Each will slightly change the flavor, but it will still be delicious.

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Conclusion

Easy Taco Soup is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and full of wholesome ingredients. Each spoonful brings a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors that make it impossible to resist. Whether you’re feeding a family, entertaining guests, or craving a cozy solo dinner, this soup has you covered.

So grab a pot, gather your ingredients, and let that taco magic fill your kitchen. Once you’ve made this soup, it’ll become a staple in your recipe rotation—you’ll want it on repeat all year long.

Watch how to make this comforting, one-pot soup