Best Taco Soup Recipe for Cozy Weeknights
Taco soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the comfort of a warm soup with the bold, spicy flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that can be whipped up in no time, perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or serving as a crowd-pleaser at a gathering. Whether you prefer a classic taco soup with ground beef, a healthier version with chicken, or a vegetarian option, this taco soup recipe is versatile enough to meet everyone’s tastes.
In this post, we’ll break down the taco soup recipe, the best ingredients to use, various ways to customize it, and give you tips on meal prep and storage. Plus, we’ll provide a helpful recipe card with all the necessary details for easy reference. Let’s dive into making your new favorite taco soup!
Table of contents
Why Taco Soup is the Perfect Comfort Food
Taco soup is more than just a regular soup – it’s a full-on meal packed with flavor, warmth, and a comforting combination of textures. The beauty of taco soup lies in its versatility. It can be made with various proteins (ground beef, chicken, or even turkey), and its ingredients are simple yet full of flavor.
Flavor Profile
The base of taco soup is typically made with tomatoes, beans, corn, and taco seasoning. These ingredients come together to create a rich, savory, and slightly spicy flavor. The soup is often topped with cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips, which adds creaminess and a satisfying crunch.
Why It’s a Family Favorite
Taco soup appeals to almost everyone, making it a great option for family dinners or gatherings. It’s easy to make in large batches and can be customized to suit different dietary preferences, including gluten-free, low-carb, or vegetarian versions. Plus, it’s an affordable meal that doesn’t require many ingredients.
Ingredients for Taco Soup Recipe
The beauty of taco soup lies in its simplicity. The ingredients can be swapped or adjusted based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Below, we’ve created a table with the most common ingredients and some optional swaps or additions to customize your soup.
Taco Soup Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef (or Chicken) | 1 lb (or 2 chicken breasts) | You can also use turkey for a leaner option. |
| Black Beans (canned) | 1 can (15 oz) | You can substitute with kidney beans or pinto beans. |
| Kidney Beans (canned) | 1 can (15 oz) | Optional, can omit or use a different type of beans. |
| Corn (canned or frozen) | 1 can (15 oz) | Frozen corn works well for a fresher flavor. |
| Diced Tomatoes | 1 can (15 oz) | Fire-roasted tomatoes add extra flavor. |
| Tomato Sauce | 1 can (8 oz) | Adds depth to the flavor. |
| Onion (diced) | 1 medium | Sweet or yellow onion works best. |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | For a stronger flavor, use more garlic. |
| Taco Seasoning | 2 packets (1 oz each) | Homemade taco seasoning can be used for control over spices. |
| Chili Powder | 1 tbsp | Adjust depending on how spicy you like it. |
| Cumin | 1 tsp | Adds an earthy, smoky flavor to the soup. |
| Chicken Broth or Beef Broth | 4 cups | Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version. |
| Cheddar Cheese (shredded) | 1 cup | Optional for topping. Use Mexican blend cheese for a richer flavor. |
| Sour Cream | ½ cup | Adds a creamy texture to balance the heat. |
| Avocado (sliced) | 1 avocado | Optional, adds freshness and creaminess. |
| Lime (wedges) | 2-3 wedges | A fresh squeeze of lime brings out all the flavors. |
| Tortilla Chips | 1 cup | Crumbled for texture or used whole for dipping. |
How to Make Taco Soup Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
Whether you’re using a slow cooker or cooking on the stovetop, taco soup is simple to prepare and incredibly forgiving. Below, we’ll walk you through both methods, so you can choose what works best for your schedule.
Stovetop Method
The stovetop method is the fastest and easiest way to make taco soup. Here’s how:
Instructions:
- Cook the Protein:
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef (or chicken) over medium heat. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks.
- Drain excess fat if needed (for ground beef). If using chicken, shred it after cooking and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the meat. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Broth and Tomatoes:
- Pour in the chicken broth (or beef broth) and the diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir to combine.
- Season the Soup:
- Stir in the taco seasoning, chili powder, and cumin. Add salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust the seasoning to your preferred spice level.
- Add the Beans and Corn:
- Add the black beans, kidney beans, and corn. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Bring the soup to a simmer over low heat. Let it cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips, and a squeeze of lime. Enjoy!
Slow Cooker Method
The slow cooker method is perfect for those who want to set it and forget it. Here’s how to make taco soup in your slow cooker:
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Brown the ground beef (or cook and shred the chicken) on the stovetop. Drain any excess fat.
- If you’re using raw chicken breasts, you can add them directly to the slow cooker and shred them after cooking.
- Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker:
- Place all the ingredients (broth, tomatoes, beans, corn, seasonings, and cooked protein) into the slow cooker.
- Cook:
- Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours.
- Final Touches:
- Before serving, stir the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Then, serve with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, avocado, and lime wedges.
Variations and Customization Ideas
While the classic taco soup recipe is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Here are some ideas for making your taco soup even more amazing:
Protein Options
- Ground Turkey: For a leaner version, swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
- Vegetarian Taco Soup: Omit the meat and use extra beans, corn, and vegetables (such as bell peppers or zucchini) for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Pulled Pork: If you prefer a smoky flavor, try adding shredded pulled pork for a different twist.
Add More Vegetables
Feel free to add more vegetables to your taco soup recipe, such as:
- Bell peppers
- Zucchini
- Spinach or kale
- Sweet potatoes (for a hearty and nutritious addition)
Spiciness Levels
- If you like your taco soup recipe spicy, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- For a milder version, reduce the amount of chili powder and skip the jalapeños.
Healthy Substitutes
- Greek Yogurt: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier topping.
- Low-Fat Cheese: Use low-fat cheese or skip it entirely for a dairy-free version.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
Taco soup recipe is perfect for meal prepping and storing for later. Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty:
Storing Leftovers:
- In the Fridge: Store leftover taco soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- In the Freezer: You can also freeze taco soup for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Reheating:
To reheat taco soup, simply heat it on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 1-2 minute intervals until warmed through.
FAQs about Taco Soup Recipe
1. Can I make taco soup ahead of time?
Yes! Taco soup recipe actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. You can make it a day or two ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and reheat when ready to serve. It’s also great for meal prepping and freezing for future meals.
2. Can I make taco soup recipe with ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are excellent alternatives if you prefer a leaner option. They will still absorb the delicious flavors of the taco seasoning and create a hearty, flavorful soup. Feel free to swap based on your preference or dietary needs!
3. How can I make taco soup spicier?
To make taco soup spicier, add fresh diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or extra chili powder. You can also try using spicy taco seasoning or adding crushed red pepper flakes to give it that extra kick. Adjust the heat level based on your spice tolerance!
4. Can I make taco soup vegetarian?
Yes! To make taco soup vegetarian, simply omit the meat and add more beans (like black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans), corn, and vegetables (like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach). You can also add some vegetable broth to keep it rich and flavorful.
5. How long can I store leftover taco soup?
You can store leftover taco soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating, make sure it’s heated thoroughly before serving again.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Taco Soup Recipe
This taco soup recipe is the perfect combination of simplicity, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re using it for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a gathering, it’s a dish that everyone will love. With customizable ingredients and easy preparation, taco soup can be made to fit your tastes and dietary needs. Give it a try and enjoy the comfort of a warm, satisfying bowl of taco soup!