Easy Taco Soup is a simple, hearty dish packed with classic taco flavors like spicy ground beef, beans, corn, and a touch of tomato. It’s warm, filling, and perfect for those days when you want something tasty without a lot of fuss.
I love making this soup when I want a quick dinner that everyone in the family will enjoy. The best part is how easy it is to throw all the ingredients together in one pot and let them simmer until everything is perfectly blended. I usually add a handful of crushed tortilla chips on top for an extra crunch, which always gets a thumbs up at my house.
This soup is great for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. I like to serve it with shredded cheese, sour cream, and a squeeze of fresh lime to brighten up the flavors. It’s the kind of dish that feels cozy and satisfying without needing a big effort, making it one of my go-to recipes whenever I need a quick, delicious meal.
Bake, Serve, Wear the Vibe 👕
Editor-picked tees our Oven To Fork readers love.
We may earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds rich flavor and protein. For a lighter version, try ground turkey or chicken. For vegetarian, swap with cooked lentils or plant-based beef substitutes.
Beans & Corn: Black beans and corn give texture and natural sweetness. If you prefer, red kidney or pinto beans work well too. Use frozen corn if canned is unavailable.
Taco Seasoning: A store-bought packet is convenient, but you can make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, and oregano. Adjust spice levels to your taste.
Tomatoes & Tomato Sauce: These create the base of the soup. If you like it less thick, add extra broth or water. Fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky taste if you want to mix it up.
How Can I Make Sure the Soup Has Great Flavor Without Too Much Effort?
Timing and layering flavors are key. Follow these tips:
- Brown the meat well: This builds a deep flavor base. Don’t rush—cook until nicely browned.
- Cook onions until soft: They add sweetness and depth.
- Add seasoning after veggies: This helps spices mix evenly.
- Simmer uncovered: Letting some liquid evaporate concentrates flavors.
- Taste and adjust: Add salt, pepper, or more seasoning before serving.
These simple steps make the soup taste like it’s had hours of slow cooking, but it only takes about 30 minutes total!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – perfect for browning the beef and simmering the soup all in one dish.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Can opener – essential for opening all the canned ingredients quickly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to easily measure broth and seasoning for balanced flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version that’s still tasty.
- Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra crunch and a bit of heat.
- Mix in a cup of cooked rice or quinoa to make the soup more filling.
- Top with shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a little crumbled queso fresco for creamy richness.
Easy Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (optional)
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla chips (crushed for topping)
- Sour cream (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to cook, so plan for roughly 40 minutes total from start to finish. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef and Cook Onions:
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart as it browns. Once it’s no longer pink, drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften.
2. Add Beans, Corn, Tomatoes, and Chilies:
Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and diced green chilies if you’re using them. Mix everything well to combine.
3. Season and Simmer:
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the mixture, then pour in the beef broth or water. Stir everything together and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes. This lets the flavors blend together nicely.
4. Finish and Serve:
Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve it hot with crushed tortilla chips on top, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro to brighten the flavors.
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Ground Beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works great as a leaner alternative. Just cook it the same way as the beef, making sure it’s fully browned before adding the other ingredients.
Can I Make This Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the meat and onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours for best flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Can I Freeze Easy Taco Soup?
Yes! Freeze the soup in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or microwave when ready to eat.
