When the chilly air sets in and you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and loaded with flavor, there’s one dish that rises to the top: Taco Soup with Ground Beef. It’s a warm, satisfying meal that blends the best of Tex-Mex flavors in a bowl, creating a dish that’s as hearty as it is easy to make. Picture this: ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and zesty spices all simmering together to create a soul-warming, flavorful soup. It’s the perfect dish to whip up for dinner, feed a crowd, or even store as leftovers for those busy days ahead. Taco Soup is so versatile, you can make it your own, and once you try it, you’ll find it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Let’s dive into the original taco soup with ground beef recipe that’s simple, yet packed with flavors. No fancy techniques required-just fresh ingredients and a few minutes of your time. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, this taco soup will deliver comfort and satisfaction every single time.
Original Taco Soup With Ground Beef Recipe
This classic taco soup recipe is as easy as it gets and offers that rich, savory taco flavor without the hassle. Ground beef brings a robust, meaty foundation, while a variety of beans and spices transform it into something unforgettable. Here’s a breakdown of the essentials you’ll need to create this simple yet mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients Needed
- Ground beef – This is your base, providing that hearty, savory texture and flavor.
- Onion – A diced onion adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
- Garlic – A couple of cloves, minced, bring a layer of aromatic depth.
- Taco seasoning – You could use store-bought or homemade (we’ll dive into making your own in the ingredient insights section).
- Tomato sauce – This adds a rich, tangy backdrop.
- Diced tomatoes (with green chilies) – They offer sweetness, acidity, and a slight kick of heat.
- Beef broth – For that rich, meaty flavor to pull everything together.
- Black beans – These contribute protein, fiber, and a creamy texture.
- Kidney beans – Another layer of texture and a slightly sweet flavor.
- Corn – For a touch of sweetness and color.
- Chopped green chilies – These give the soup just the right amount of heat and flavor.
- Sour cream – For topping! It helps balance the flavors and adds creaminess.
- Cheddar cheese – Melted cheese makes everything better.
- Tortilla chips – For a crunchy contrast, and to scoop up every last bit of delicious soup.
- Cilantro (optional) – Fresh herbs add a pop of brightness.
Cooking Instructions
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Brown The Ground Beef
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Stir occasionally until it’s fully browned and any excess fat is drained off.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
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Add The Spices And Seasonings
- Sprinkle in your taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade). Stir it around to coat the beef and vegetables. Let it cook for another minute to bring out all the bold flavors.
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Combine The Liquids And Beans
- Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, black beans, kidney beans, and corn. Stir well to combine. Bring the soup to a simmer over medium-high heat.
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Simmer The Soup
- Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows all the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly.
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Taste And Adjust
- Taste the soup, and if it needs more seasoning, feel free to add a pinch of salt, pepper, or even more taco seasoning. You can also add extra chili powder or a splash of hot sauce if you like more heat.
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Serve And Garnish
- Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls. Top with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of cheddar cheese, a handful of crushed tortilla chips, and fresh cilantro if you like. Serve it with some extra chips on the side for dipping.
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this taco soup serves a specific purpose, adding not just flavor, but texture, color, and nutritional value to the dish. Let’s break it down:
- Ground Beef: You can go lean or regular, but lean beef will give you a less greasy soup. You could also opt for turkey or chicken if you want a lighter version.
- Beans: Black beans and kidney beans both add fiber and protein, making this soup filling and nutritious. Beans are a great source of plant-based protein, perfect for vegetarians if you skip the beef.
- Taco Seasoning: Taco seasoning is the backbone of this recipe, and it’s also easy to make at home. A mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder with a pinch of salt will give you a great starting point for a homemade version.
- Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes with green chilies add tang and spice. The green chilies in particular contribute a subtle, flavorful heat without overpowering the soup.
- Cheese and Sour Cream: These toppings balance out the heat and add a creamy richness. The cheese also melts beautifully into the soup, making each spoonful even more indulgent.
Expert Tips
- Make it ahead: Taco soup gets even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. If you’re meal prepping or want a dinner that’s ready after work, make this the night before and store it in the fridge.
- Customize your heat: If you like your taco soup extra spicy, add fresh jalapeños or extra chili powder. If you’re more on the mild side, stick to the green chilies and reduce or skip the hot sauce.
- Thickening the soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash a portion of the beans or add a couple of tablespoons of cornmeal to the simmering soup to give it a bit more body.
- Go for fresh ingredients: Using fresh garlic, onion, and even fresh tomatoes can elevate the flavor of your soup, making it even more delicious.
- Freeze it: Taco soup freezes exceptionally well. If you have leftovers, portion them out and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, simply reheat on the stove.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Taco Soup: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or simply add more beans (like black beans, pinto beans, and chickpeas) for a filling, protein-packed alternative.
- Chicken Taco Soup: Swap the beef for shredded rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken breasts. This version is just as flavorful and can be a lighter option.
- Low-Carb Taco Soup: If you’re following a low-carb diet, skip the corn and beans and focus on the beef and broth. You can add zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb substitute.
- Spicy Taco Soup: For those who love a fiery kick, throw in some diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne, or a few dashes of hot sauce. The soup can easily be adjusted to your preferred spice level.
Final Words
This taco soup with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food. It’s rich, savory, and satisfying, with just the right balance of spice and warmth. It’s one of those meals that feels like a hug in a bowl, perfect for a cozy evening with family or friends. And, with its versatility, you can easily tailor it to suit different dietary preferences or spice levels.
If you’re craving something hearty, simple, and full of flavor, taco soup will never disappoint. The best part? It’s incredibly forgiving-add a little more of this, a little less of that-and it’ll always turn out delicious.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For An Original Taco Soup With Ground Beef Recipe?
The essential ingredients for an original taco soup with ground beef include ground beef, taco seasoning, onion, garlic, tomatoes (diced and tomato sauce), kidney beans, black beans, corn, and beef broth. Optional toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro.
How Do I Make Taco Soup With Ground Beef From Scratch?
To make taco soup from scratch, first cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat, then add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Add taco seasoning, tomatoes, beans, corn, and beef broth. Simmer the soup for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Or Chicken Instead Of Ground Beef In Taco Soup?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in taco soup. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still make for a delicious, lighter version of the soup.
Can I Make Taco Soup With Ground Beef In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, taco soup can easily be made in a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and drain the fat, then add all other ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally and serve with your favorite toppings.
Can I Freeze Taco Soup With Ground Beef?
Yes, taco soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and heat on the stove or in the microwave.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Taco Seasoning?
If you don’t have taco seasoning, you can create your own blend by combining chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt. Adjust the quantities to suit your taste. A typical mix would be 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp paprika.
What Can I Add To Taco Soup To Make It Spicier?
To make taco soup spicier, you can add ingredients such as diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust the level of heat according to your preference.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Taco Soup With Ground Beef?
The total cooking time for taco soup with ground beef is about 40 minutes. This includes browning the beef (about 10 minutes) and simmering the soup (20-30 minutes). If using a slow cooker, cooking time is 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high.
Can I Make Taco Soup With Ground Beef Ahead Of Time?
Yes, taco soup can be made ahead of time. The flavors often improve as it sits. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also prepare the ingredients the night before and cook it the next day for a quick dinner.
What Toppings Are Best For Taco Soup With Ground Beef?
Common and delicious toppings for taco soup include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced green onions, chopped cilantro, tortilla chips, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime juice.