There’s something about a pot of taco soup simmering away on the stove that feels like the definition of cozy comfort food. It’s got all the bold, zesty flavors of your favorite taco night, but in a spoonable, soul-warming form.
The best part about this recipe is that you only need one pot and about 30 minutes to pull this off, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
What’s in Taco Soup?
Taco soup is basically everything you love about tacos, turned into a hearty, comforting soup. It usually includes ground beef or turkey, tomatoes, beans, corn, and broth, seasoned with taco spices.
Think of it as a cross between chili and tacos—rich, filling, and bursting with flavor. I like mine chunky, with just the right amount of broth to soak up with tortilla chips or rice on the side.
My Tips for Cooking Taco Soup
When I make taco soup, I always start by browning the meat really well. Don’t rush this step because the caramelized bits at the bottom of the pot add so much flavor. Once the beef is browned, I drain any excess fat, then toss in onions and garlic to build that savory base.
If you’re using a store-bought taco seasoning mix, that’s totally fine; it’s a time-saver. But I prefer making my own blend with chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and a pinch of cayenne. It tastes fresher and gives me more control over the salt and spice level.
For a thicker, chili-like soup, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. If you want it saucier, just add a bit more broth or even a splash of tomato sauce.
Lastly, add a squeeze of lime juice right before serving. It brightens up all the flavors beautifully.
Recipe Variations and Substitutes
This soup is so flexible, you can tweak it endlessly.
Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you want a leaner version. For a vegetarian taco soup, skip the meat altogether and double up on beans—black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans all work great.
You can also add extra veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or diced carrots for more texture and color. If you’re feeling indulgent, stir in a handful of shredded cheese right before serving for a creamy twist.
Serving Suggestions
I love topping my taco soup with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of cilantro. Crushed tortilla chips or strips add a perfect crunch. You can also serve it over rice or alongside cornbread for a full, satisfying meal.
If you’re meal prepping, pack the toppings separately and add them right before eating to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Storing and Freezing Taco Soup
Taco soup keeps really well, which makes it one of my favorite dishes for meal prep. Once it cools down, transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
It also freezes well. Simply portion it out into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It’ll last for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
Hearty One-Pot Taco Soup Recipe
Image credit: @thereciperebel
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups chicken or beef broth
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
Optional Toppings
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheese
- Cilantro
- Crushed tortilla chips
Instructions
- Sear the meat. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add the aromatics. Add the onion and garlic, cooking for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the rest of the ingredients. Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, corn, and broth. Mix well.
- Simmer. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning. Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice to taste.
- Serve and enjoy. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like sour cream, cheese, and tortilla chips.
Featured image credit: @carlsbadcravings
