© Original recipe by The Culinary Delight ©
Easy Weeknight Taco Soup Perfect for Dinner 🌮🍲✨
1. Introduction
Looking for a delicious taco soup recipe that is quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights? This easy taco soup is your answer! Combining cozy flavors, fresh ingredients, and minimal prep time, this best taco soup is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Whether you’re craving a comforting weeknight dinner soup or a hearty meal, this recipe is versatile and guaranteed to satisfy. Let’s dive into how to make this flavorful, easy, and satisfying taco soup that fits perfectly into any busy schedule.
2. Ingredients for the Best Taco Soup
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños
3. How to Make the Perfect Taco Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary. Next, add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Seasonings
Stir in the taco seasoning, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors. Then, add the drained black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with chilies, and tomato sauce. Mix everything well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth and Simmer
Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the soup to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Final Touches and Serving
Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, or jalapeños for a personalized touch. For a gluten-free option, ensure your taco seasoning is gluten-free or make your own spice blend at home.
4. Tips for the Best Taco Soup
- For a vegetarian version, replace the ground meat with additional beans or chopped vegetables.
- Use homemade taco seasoning for better flavor, or switch it up with your favorite spice blend.
- This soup stores well in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove or microwave for a quick meal.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving for a zesty twist.
5. Storage and Reheating Instructions
Let the taco soup cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage. To reheat, simply warm in a pot over medium heat until steaming hot, stirring occasionally. For best results, reheat in small portions for even heating.
6. Serving Suggestions for Taco Soup
This weeknight dinner soup is incredibly versatile. Serve it with crunchy tortilla chips, a side of Mexican rice, or a fresh green salad. It pairs wonderfully with warm cornbread or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a more filling meal, add toppings like avocado slices or a dollop of guacamole.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics — Perfect for quick reheats or side dishes that complement your taco soup, saving you time and effort.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — This durable cookware set ensures your pots and pans stay in top shape for cooking soups and stews.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — Use this versatile appliance to prepare delicious sides or even grilled toppings to garnish your taco soup.
8. FAQ about the Ultimate Taco Soup Recipe
Can I make this taco soup vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Substitute the ground meat with additional beans, lentils, or vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or chopped cauliflower. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth for a vegan-friendly version.
How long does it take to prepare and cook the taco soup?
The total prep and cooking time is approximately 30-40 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, making it an ideal comfort food after a busy day.
What are some good toppings for taco soup?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and crushed tortilla chips. Feel free to get creative with your favorites!
Can I freeze leftover taco soup?
Absolutely. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months and can be reheated directly from frozen.
9. Conclusion
Enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal with this easy taco soup recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or any casual dinner gathering. Its simple ingredients and straightforward cooking process make it an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. For more savory meal ideas and kitchen tips, explore our related recipes like Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet or Creamy Cheesy Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Soup. Make this delicious weeknight dinner soup tonight and impress your family with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
Print
Easy Weeknight Taco Soup Perfect for Dinner
A savory, comforting taco soup packed with beans, ground meat, corn, and tomatoes, topped with cheese and herbs for a delicious meal.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 can kidney beans (15 oz), drained
- 1 can black beans (15 oz), drained
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream, cilantro, tortilla chips for topping
Instructions
- Cook ground beef in a large pot over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat.
- Add diced tomatoes, beans, corn, taco seasoning, and beef broth. Stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro. Enjoy!
Notes
- You can customize by adding jalapenos or avocado for extra flavor.
- Use low-sodium broth and beans for a healthier option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
