Follow these steps to make flavorful Taco Soup:
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Seasoning and Peppers: Stir in the taco seasoning and chopped green pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes to combine flavors.
- Add Liquids and Beans: Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, Rotel tomatoes, and green chilies. Add the black beans and pinto beans, stirring to combine.
- Add Corn and Simmer: Stir in frozen corn. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional taco seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or tortilla chips.
Serving and Storage
Serve Taco Soup hot, preferably with tortilla chips or crusty bread. It pairs well with shredded cheese, avocado slices, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months; allow it to cool completely before freezing. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Tips
- Customize Heat: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra spice.
- Use Different Proteins: Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles work well as alternatives.
- Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
- Add Fresh Veggies: Diced zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers can boost nutrition and flavor.
- Garnishing Ideas: Toppings like shredded cheese, diced avocado, cilantro, lime wedges, or crushed tortilla chips add texture and taste.
Conclusion
Taco Soup is a quick, hearty, and flavor-packed meal that brings all the favorite elements of a taco into a comforting bowl of soup. With its combination of seasoned beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and spices, it’s perfect for any night of the week, especially when you need a fuss-free dinner that satisfies everyone at the table.
Simple to make, customizable, and full of bold flavors, this soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Serve it with your favorite toppings for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal that tastes like a taco in every bite.
FAQ
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Omit the ground beef and use extra beans or lentils. You can also add diced tofu or plant-based crumbles for protein.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Can I freeze Taco Soup?
Yes. Allow the soup to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
What can I serve with Taco Soup?
It pairs well with tortilla chips, cornbread, avocado slices, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.
Can I make it spicier?
Add chopped jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or extra Rotel tomatoes with chilies to increase the heat.