Taco Soup

Taco Soup is one of those comforting dishes that just warms your soul. I remember the first time I made this delightful soup; it was a chilly winter evening, and I was craving something hearty and flavorful. The aroma of spices and simmering ingredients filled my kitchen, instantly bringing back memories of family gatherings where taco night was the highlight. One pot, a handful of ingredients, and just a little time was all it took to create a dish that felt like a warm hug on a cold day. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend, Taco Soup always delivers on taste and comfort.

Shopping List for Taco Soup

Creating the perfect Taco Soup starts with the right ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in making this dish a flavorful delight. From the savory ground beef to the zesty lime, these ingredients work in harmony to create a symphony of taste. Let’s explore what you’ll need to bring this comforting soup to life.

• 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil – This helps to sauté the ingredients, providing a rich flavor base.
• 1 pound lean ground beef or ground turkey – The heart of the soup, adding protein and richness.
• 1 small yellow onion, minced – For sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1 (4 oz) can mild diced green chiles, undrained – Adds a mild kick and flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for aromatic depth.
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning – The signature spice mix that brings everything together.
• 8 ounces can tomato sauce – Adds a rich, tomatoey base.
• 2 cups slow-sodium beef broth – The liquid foundation for our soup.
• 2 (15 oz) cans diced tomatoes – Contributes texture and flavor.
• 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained – For added protein and fiber.
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained – Another layer of protein and fiber.
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels – Sweetness and texture contrast.
• kosher salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• 1 large lime – For a fresh burst of acidity.
• toppings of choice – Personalize your soup with favorites like cheese, sour cream, or avocado.

Putting Together Taco Soup

Making Taco Soup is not just about combining ingredients; it’s about creating layers of flavor. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to a delicious and hearty dish in no time!

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat for about one minute. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers slightly. Once heated, add the ground beef and onion. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it browns. Look for the beef to turn a deep brown color and the onion to become translucent, which usually takes about five to seven minutes. Remember to drain any excess grease if necessary.
2. Stir in the diced green chiles, garlic, and taco seasoning. This step is where the magic happens! Cook for about one minute, stirring often. You want to ensure the spices become fragrant and the garlic doesn’t burn.
3. Add the tomato sauce to the pot and cook for three to four minutes. This will thicken the sauce slightly and meld the flavors beautifully. Stir frequently during this time, allowing the sauce to concentrate.
4. Pour in two cups of beef broth and the diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Keep an eye on it to prevent spillage as it heats up.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the pinto beans, black beans, and corn. Stir everything together, ensuring an even distribution. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens too much, reduce the heat and add up to one cup of additional broth.
6. After simmering, take it off the heat and stir in the juice of the lime. This brightens the flavors significantly! Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
7. Finally, serve hot with your choice of toppings. This could be shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or avocado. The toppings allow everyone to customize their bowl!

Helpful Hints

When making Taco Soup, having some helpful hints can enhance your cooking experience. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:

• Storage: Store leftover Taco Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This makes for a quick lunch the next day!
• Freezing: You can freeze this soup in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Just remember to leave some space for expansion.
• Pairing: Serve Taco Soup with tortilla chips or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Vegan Option: For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and use vegetable broth while adding more beans for bulk.
• Use Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: Swap out regular diced tomatoes for fire-roasted ones for an added smoky flavor.
• Jalapeño for Heat: If you like it spicy, add a minced jalapeño to the pot when cooking the onions and meat.

What to Pair With Taco Soup

• Chips and Salsa: A classic pairing that complements the flavors of Taco Soup. Crunchy chips with a side of salsa add texture.
• Fresh Cornbread: This is perfect for sopping up every last drop of soup. It brings a sweet balance to the spices in the soup.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad can lighten up the meal and provide a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
• Guacamole and Sour Cream: These creamy toppings enhance the flavors and add a delightful creaminess to each bite.
• Family Gatherings: Taco Soup is great for gatherings; it’s easy to prepare in large quantities and can please a crowd.
• Game Day: Serve Taco Soup during game day as a filling snack that everyone will love, especially with toppings!

FAQ

Conclusion

Overall, Taco Soup is a delightful dish that combines comfort and convenience in one bowl. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a go-to recipe for any season. I encourage you to try making this easy, satisfying soup for your next family meal or gathering. You’ll be glad you did, as it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!

Taco Soup

The ultimate comfort food, Taco Soup combines hearty ingredients in a warm and delicious blend. Perfect for chilly nights or busy weeknights, this easy weeknight dinner is sure to satisfy your cravings. Give it a try tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Soups

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 pound lean ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 small yellow onion minced
• 1 can mild diced green chiles undrained
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 2 cups slow-sodium beef broth + more as needed
• 2 cans diced tomatoes (15 oz)
• 1 can pinto beans rinsed and drained (15 oz)
• 1 can black beans rinsed and drained (15 oz)
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• kosher salt to taste
• 1 large lime
• toppings of choice

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Frying Pan
• Cutting Board

Method

 

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat for about one minute. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers slightly. Once heated, add the ground beef and onion. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it browns. Look for the beef to turn a deep brown color and the onion to become translucent, which usually takes about five to seven minutes. Remember to drain any excess grease if necessary.
2. Stir in the diced green chiles, garlic, and taco seasoning. This step is where the magic happens! Cook for about one minute, stirring often. You want to ensure the spices become fragrant and the garlic doesn’t burn.
3. Add the tomato sauce to the pot and cook for three to four minutes. This will thicken the sauce slightly and meld the flavors beautifully. Stir frequently during this time, allowing the sauce to concentrate.
4. Pour in two cups of beef broth and the diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Keep an eye on it to prevent spillage as it heats up.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the pinto beans, black beans, and corn. Stir everything together, ensuring an even distribution. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens too much, reduce the heat and add up to one cup of additional broth.
6. After simmering, take it off the heat and stir in the juice of the lime. This brightens the flavors significantly! Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
7. Finally, serve hot with your choice of toppings. This could be shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or avocado. The toppings allow everyone to customize their bowl!

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftover Taco Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This makes for a quick lunch the next day!
• Tip 2: You can freeze this soup in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Just remember to leave some space for expansion.
• Tip 3: Serve Taco Soup with tortilla chips or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Tip 4: For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and use vegetable broth while adding more beans for bulk.
• Tip 5: Swap out regular diced tomatoes for fire-roasted ones for an added smoky flavor.
• Tip 6: If you like it spicy, add a minced jalapeño to the pot when cooking the onions and meat.

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Meet Fiona Lewis

I love cooking with the seasons and keeping things rustic and real. I believe the best meals are the ones shared with friends and family. I had so much fun creating this recipe, and I can't wait to hear what you think of it!