Looking for a comforting, hearty meal that’s full of flavor but easy to make? This Easy Taco Soup Recipe is the answer! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a spicy, savory soup that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or looking to meal prep for the week, taco soup checks all the boxes.
What makes this recipe so great? It’s super customizable to fit any taste, and it’s the kind of meal that gets better the longer it sits, making it perfect for leftovers. You can adjust the level of heat, swap in your favorite proteins, or add extra veggies, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love.
This soup is packed with all the flavors you love from tacos: seasoned beef, beans, cheese, and the perfect amount of heat. Top it off with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, cheese, and tortilla chips, and you’ve got a meal that will make your taste buds do a happy dance.
In this article, we’ll cover:
- How to make taco soup in just 30 minutes
- Customization ideas for different diets and flavor preferences
- Tips for storing and reheating leftovers
- Serving suggestions to complete the meal
So grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking, this taco soup will quickly become your go-to recipe for every occasion!
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need (and Substitutes)
The beauty of Taco Soup lies in its simplicity. With a few basic ingredients, you can create a flavor-packed dish in just 30 minutes. Plus, the ingredients are easy to find and versatile, making this recipe perfect for busy nights or meal prep. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:
🥩 Protein (Choose Your Favorite)
- 1 lb ground beef – This is the classic choice and what most taco soup recipes call for. It’s hearty and flavorful, and it takes on the taco seasoning beautifully.
- Optional swaps:
- Ground chicken or turkey for a leaner version
- Shredded rotisserie chicken if you’re looking to save time
- Vegetarian crumbles or tofu for a meatless option
💡 Pro Tip: The key to flavor is browning the meat well and seasoning it with taco seasoning as it cooks.
🌶️ Taco Seasoning
- 1 packet taco seasoning – This adds that signature taco flavor. You can use a store-bought packet for convenience, or make your own seasoning with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Alternative: If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the amount of seasoning or skip the spicy ingredients.
🍅 Canned Tomatoes
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) – This provides the base for your soup’s texture and a slight acidity. You can also use crushed tomatoes for a smoother consistency or fire-roasted diced tomatoes for added depth.
- Tip: If you love a chunkier soup, opt for the diced tomatoes!
🧑🍳 Beans
- 1 can black beans (15 oz) – Black beans are the classic choice for taco soup. They’re hearty, full of protein, and hold up well in the soup.
- Other options: Kidney beans, pinto beans, or white beans work perfectly too.
💡 If you prefer a bean-free soup, simply add extra corn or swap in some sweet potatoes for texture.
🌽 Corn
- 1 can sweet corn (15 oz) – Corn adds a touch of sweetness that balances the spice and helps make the soup feel more filling.
- Alternative: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can use frozen corn kernels or even grilled corn for a smoky flavor.
🍲 Broth
- 2 cups chicken broth – Chicken broth adds richness to the soup, but you can easily substitute it with vegetable broth or beef broth based on your dietary preference.
- Low-sodium options are ideal to control the saltiness of the soup.
🧀 Creamy Topping
- Sour cream – Adds a creamy texture and a cool contrast to the soup’s heat.
- Cheese – A handful of shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, or pepper jack) to top off the soup after serving for that gooey, melty finish.
- Tortilla chips – Crumble some chips on top for a crunchy bite and an extra touch of flavor.
💡 Pro Tip: For an extra creamy twist, you can also add a few spoonfuls of cream cheese into the soup while it’s simmering.
🧂 Pantry Staples
- Olive oil – For sautéing the onions and browning the meat.
- Salt and pepper – To taste.
- Optional spices: Cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or paprika for extra kick.
How to Make Taco Soup in 30 Minutes (Step-by-Step)
This recipe is as easy as it is delicious. With a simple combination of ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have a bowl of hearty, flavorful taco soup ready in no time. Let’s get started!
🔸 Step 1: Cook the Ground Meat
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add 1 lb ground beef.
- Cook the meat, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s browned.
- Drain any excess fat (if needed) to keep the soup from being greasy.
- Stir in 1 packet taco seasoning and mix well. Let the seasoning cook into the meat for about 2–3 minutes.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re using chicken, turkey, or a meat alternative, follow the same steps, but adjust the seasoning for a lighter flavor.
🔸 Step 2: Add the Veggies & Beans
- Add 1 can diced tomatoes (with juices), 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed), and 1 can sweet corn (drained) into the pot.
- Stir everything together to combine.
- Pour in 2 cups chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
💡 For extra texture, try adding chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for some added crunch and heat.
🔸 Step 3: Simmer and Combine Flavors
- Let the soup simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- This allows all the ingredients to come together and for the flavors to really meld.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more taco seasoning, if desired.
🔸 Step 4: Adjust Consistency
- If you find the soup too thick, add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- For a creamier soup, you can stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
🔸 Step 5: Serve and Top It Off
- Once everything is heated through and the flavors are just right, ladle the soup into bowls.
- Top each bowl with shredded cheese, a spoonful of sour cream, and a few tortilla chips for that perfect crunch.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños if you like it extra spicy.
🍽️ Enjoy!
This easy taco soup is ready to enjoy in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick dinner, a weekend lunch, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. Plus, it gets better the next day, making it an ideal leftover dish!
Customization Ideas (Make It Your Own)
What makes taco soup so amazing is its versatility, you can easily make it your own with different ingredients and flavors! Whether you prefer it spicy, vegetarian, or extra creamy, there’s always a way to adjust the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some great ideas to make this taco soup even more flavorful or to match your preferences:
🌶️ Want It Spicier?
- Add jalapeños: Stir in chopped fresh jalapeños during cooking or sprinkle them on top before serving.
- Use spicy taco seasoning: Swap your regular seasoning for a hot taco seasoning mix or add extra chili flakes.
- Cayenne pepper: For a fiery kick, stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup.
- Hot sauce: Drizzle a few dashes of hot sauce into the soup before serving for extra heat.
🧑🍳 Need a Vegetarian Version?
- Swap the meat: Use vegetarian crumbles (like those made from soy or pea protein) in place of ground beef.
- Increase the beans: Add an extra can of black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans for a heartier base.
- Sweet potatoes: For extra texture and sweetness, stir in cubed roasted sweet potatoes.
- Add extra veggies: Add zucchini, corn, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
🧑⚖️ Want to Make It Lower-Carb or Keto?
- Skip the beans and corn: For a low-carb version, you can replace the beans and corn with more non-starchy vegetables like spinach, cauliflower, or mushrooms.
- Use cauliflower rice: Replace regular rice with cauliflower rice for a grain-free, low-carb option.
- Creamy base: Add more cream cheese or heavy cream for a rich and velvety texture.
🍲 Want It Creamier?
- Add cream cheese: Stir in 4 oz of cream cheese into the soup for a smooth and creamy texture.
- Add sour cream: For a lighter creaminess, swirl a dollop of sour cream into the soup when serving.
- Heavy cream: You can replace the broth with heavy cream for a richer, more indulgent soup.
🌿 Make It Even Healthier
- Swap out the meat: Choose lean ground turkey or chicken breast for a lighter option.
- Low-sodium broth: Use low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to reduce the salt content.
- More vegetables: Add spinach, kale, or carrots for added fiber and nutrients without compromising the flavor.
🧑🍳 Slow Cooker or Instant Pot Variations
- Slow Cooker: Brown the ground beef and add all ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours.
- Instant Pot: Add all ingredients to the Instant Pot, secure the lid, and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Quick release and serve!
With all these customization options, you can adapt the recipe based on your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you want it spicy, vegetarian, or creamy, this taco soup is incredibly versatile and ready to become your new go-to meal!
What to Serve with Taco Soup
While Taco Soup is hearty and filling on its own, pairing it with the right sides can take it to the next level. Whether you’re looking for something crunchy, refreshing, or creamy, these sides and drinks will perfectly complement the bold flavors of the soup.
🥗 1. Fresh & Crunchy Sides
Balance the richness of the soup with something crisp and refreshing:
- Classic Cornbread: A slightly sweet, buttery side that’s perfect for scooping up soup.
- Tortilla Chips: Serve with extra tortilla chips for dipping or crumble them on top of the soup for added texture.
- Simple Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with a tangy lime vinaigrette will cut through the richness and add a cool contrast to the warm soup.
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob slathered with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime, a crowd-pleaser!
🍞 2. Warm and Comforting Bread
For a more filling side to enjoy with your soup:
- Garlic Bread: Toasted, garlicky, and buttery, garlic bread makes the perfect dipping companion.
- Jalapeño Cheddar Biscuits: Cheesy, spicy, and perfect for sopping up the flavorful broth.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a fresh loaf of crusty sourdough or ciabatta for extra heartiness.
🧊 3. Drinks That Pair Perfectly
What’s the best drink to go with taco soup? These options will keep you refreshed and complement the bold, spicy flavors of the soup.
- Dole Strawberry Lemonade: Sweet and tangy, the perfect way to cool down a spicy taco soup.
➝ Get the recipe - Peach Iced Tea: A chilled, fruity iced tea adds a light touch of sweetness.
➝ Check it out - Classic Margaritas: If you’re serving taco soup for a party, pair it with margaritas for a festive touch. Go for classic lime margaritas or even a mango margarita for a tropical twist.
🧀 4. Toppings for Taco Soup
A bowl of Taco Soup isn’t complete without a few tasty toppings. Here are some ideas to make your soup even more irresistible:
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, or pepper jack)
- Sour cream for creaminess
- Chopped green onions or cilantro for freshness
- Sliced jalapeños if you like extra heat
- Avocado or guacamole for a creamy, rich addition
- Lime wedges to add a tangy kick
With these sides and drinks, you can make your Taco Soup even more satisfying. Whether you’re keeping it light with a salad or going all-in with cheesy bread, the right pairing will elevate your meal!
Storage, Reheating & Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about Taco Soup is how well it stores, reheats, and even freezes. Whether you want to prep it ahead of time for a busy week or save some for later, this soup has got you covered.
🥡 How to Store Leftovers
After enjoying your taco soup, you can easily store the leftovers for later.
- Cool the soup completely before storing to avoid condensation.
- Place the soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days to keep it fresh.
- Tip: Store the soup and toppings separately to prevent the chips from getting soggy.
❄️ Freezing Taco Soup
Taco Soup freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or when you have extra servings.
➤ To Freeze Before Cooking:
- Assemble the soup (without adding the chips or cheese) and transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To cook: Thaw in the fridge overnight and heat on the stove for 20 minutes. Add the cheese and toppings once it’s hot.
➤ To Freeze After Cooking:
- Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
- Store in freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion.
- Freezing Tip: If you want to freeze individual servings, divide the soup into smaller portions, so you can grab just what you need.
🔥 How to Reheat Taco Soup
Taco soup tastes just as good after being stored or frozen! Here’s how to reheat it:
➤ On the Stovetop:
- Reheat over low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally.
- If the soup is too thick after refrigerating, add a splash of broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
➤ In the Microwave:
- Place individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
🕒 Make-Ahead Tips
Taco soup is perfect for make-ahead meals, especially if you want to meal prep for the week.
- Assemble the soup up to 24 hours ahead. Store it in the refrigerator (without the toppings), and then cook it the next day.
- Slow Cooker Tip: You can cook taco soup in a slow cooker after prepping the ingredients the night before. Simply add all ingredients to the slow cooker, set it on low for 4–6 hours, and you’ll have a hot, ready meal when you come home.
🧑🍳 How Long Does Taco Soup Last?
- Refrigerated: Taco soup can last for up to 3–4 days in the fridge.
- Frozen: It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
By storing your taco soup properly, you can enjoy it multiple times throughout the week without losing any of the flavor! It’s perfect for meal prep, and it only gets better after a day or two of marinating in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can easily replace the ground beef in this recipe. These leaner options will result in a lighter soup. However, make sure to use ground turkey with some fat content (not extra-lean) to maintain flavor and moisture.
How can I make taco soup spicier?
To add more heat, consider incorporating chopped jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce. You can also use spicy taco seasoning or add a can of hot green chilies.
Is taco soup gluten-free?
Taco soup can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free taco seasoning and ensure all other ingredients are free from gluten. Always check labels to confirm.
Can I make taco soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the ground meat and sauté the onions and garlic on the stovetop. Then, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours.
How do I thicken taco soup?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can simmer the soup uncovered to allow some liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in for added thickness.
How long does taco soup last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, taco soup can last in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Taco soup recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- cooking spoon
- Can opener
- Ladle
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground beef Or use ground chicken or turkey for leaner options
- 1 can Diced tomatoes 14.5 oz Use fire-roasted tomatoes for extra flavor
- 1 can Black beans 15 oz Drain and rinse before adding
- 1 can Sweet corn 15 oz Drain before adding
- 1 packet Taco seasoning Or use homemade seasoning blend
- 2 cups Chicken broth Or use vegetable broth for a lighter version
- 1 cup Sour cream optional For topping, adds creaminess
- 1 cup Shredded cheese optional For topping, adds richness
- 1 handful Tortilla chips For serving adds crunch
- 1 tbsp Olive oil For sautéing the meat
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 lb ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
- Add seasoning: Stir in 1 packet taco seasoning and cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Combine ingredients: Add 1 can diced tomatoes, 1 can black beans, 1 can sweet corn, and 2 cups chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or extra taco seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with sour cream, shredded cheese, and tortilla chips.
Notes
- Customization: Make it spicier by adding fresh jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
- Freezing: This taco soup freezes well. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
- Slow Cooker Option: Brown the meat first, then transfer it to a slow cooker with all other ingredients. Cook on low for 4–6 hours.
Final Thoughts
Taco soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or prepping for the week, this hearty, spicy soup is sure to hit the spot. It’s also incredibly versatile, so you can tailor it to your preferences, add more heat, swap out the protein, or make it extra creamy.
The best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect go-to meal when you’re short on time but craving something satisfying. And with so many ways to customize it, this soup will never get boring.
🍴 Keep the Flavor Coming!
Looking for more delicious, quick meals? Try these next:
- Hot Cowgirl Casserole Recipe – Bold, cheesy, and easy to make!
- Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe – Creamy, dreamy, and perfect for any night of the week.
- Crack Chicken Penne Recipe – Addictive, cheesy goodness in every bite.
- Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad Recipe – A crunchy, fresh side that pairs perfectly with taco soup.
- Dole Strawberry Lemonade – A sweet, tangy drink to cool down your meal.
Made this recipe? Leave a comment below or share your creation on social media and tag us! We’d love to see your delicious taco soup and how you made it your own.