Easy Taco Soup: A Flavorful and Hearty One-Pot Meal

If you’re looking for a meal that’s bursting with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for any day of the week, Easy Taco Soup is the answer. This dish combines the zesty spices of a taco with the comforting warmth of a soup, creating a crowd-pleasing meal that you’ll want to make again and again.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this taco soup is a recipe that delivers on all fronts. Plus, it’s versatile—you can customize it with your favorite toppings to suit your taste perfectly.

Why You’ll Love Easy Taco Soup

Easy Taco Soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s a lifesaver for busy nights and a hit at gatherings.

• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh ingredients you already have at home.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time enjoying the meal.
• Customizable: Adjust the toppings and ingredients to make it your own.

Ingredients for Easy Taco Soup

Category	Ingredient	Quantity
Base Ingredients	Olive oil	1 tablespoon
	Yellow onion, diced	1 large (2 cups)
	Garlic, thinly sliced	4 cloves
	Ground beef (85% lean)	2 pounds
Seasonings	Kosher salt	1 ½ teaspoons, divided
	Freshly ground black pepper	¼ teaspoon
	Taco seasoning packets	2 (1-ounce each)
Canned Ingredients	Pinto beans, rinsed and drained	1 (15-ounce) can
	Fire-roasted diced tomatoes with juice	1 (15-ounce) can
	Rotel mild diced tomatoes and chilies	1 (10-ounce) can
Liquids	Low-sodium chicken broth	3 cups
Vegetables	Frozen corn kernels	2 ½ cups
Toppings	Sour cream	Optional
	Shredded cheddar cheese	Optional
	Diced red onion	Optional
	Diced avocado	Optional

Step-by-Step Guide to Easy Taco Soup

1. Prep Your Ingredients

• Dice the yellow onion and thinly slice the garlic.
• Rinse and drain the pinto beans.
• Measure out the corn and other ingredients for a smooth cooking process.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
• Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for about 4 minutes until softened.

3. Brown the Ground Beef

• Increase the heat to high and add the ground beef to the pot.
• Season with ½ teaspoon kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
• Cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking up the beef with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked.

4. Drain the Fat

• Carefully drain and discard any excess fat from the pot. Return the pot to medium-high heat.

5. Add the Soup Ingredients

• Stir in the pinto beans, chicken broth, frozen corn, fire-roasted tomatoes, Rotel, taco seasoning, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of kosher salt.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

6. Simmer the Soup

• Allow the soup to simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

7. Serve and Garnish

• Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
• Top with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, diced red onion, and avocado for added flavor and texture.

Tips for Perfect Taco Soup

1. Use Lean Beef: Ground beef with 85% lean content strikes a balance between flavor and reduced grease.
2. Customize the Spice: Add more hot sauce or chili flakes if you prefer a spicier soup.
3. Bulk It Up: Add black beans, kidney beans, or extra vegetables to make the soup heartier.
4. Prep in Advance: Chop the veggies and measure the spices ahead of time for a quicker cooking process.

Serving Suggestions

Easy Taco Soup is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides:

• Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside the soup for a crunchy contrast.
• Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread complements the spicy soup.
• Rice: Pour the soup over rice for a filling meal.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (Approximate)
Calories	310
Protein	20g
Carbohydrates	25g
Fat	15g
Fiber	5g
Sodium	780mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works perfectly in this recipe.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

3. Can I freeze taco soup?

Absolutely! Freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

4. What’s the best way to reheat taco soup?

Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through.

5. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

6. What other toppings can I use?

Get creative! Try sliced jalapeños, fresh cilantro, crushed tortilla chips, or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Final Thoughts

Easy Taco Soup is a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining. Its combination of hearty ingredients, bold spices, and customizable toppings makes it a dish you’ll come back to time and time again.

So, gather your ingredients, grab your favorite toppings, and whip up a pot of this delicious soup today. You’re guaranteed to impress your family and friends with its irresistible flavor!

Print