Taco Soup with Ground Beef: Hearty, Flavorful Comfort Food

Name: Taco Soup with Ground Beef: Hearty, Flavorful Comfort Food
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 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 (28 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies; 2 cups beef broth; 2 tbsp taco seasoning; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Shredded cheese for topping; Chopped cilantro for garnish; Sour cream for serving

May 31, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of taco soup with ground beef, especially on a chilly evening. It’s like a hug in a bowl! This recipe has quickly become a family favorite for its hearty texture and bold flavors that dance on your taste buds. What makes this taco soup stand out is its perfect balance of spices, beans, and the richness of ground beef, all simmered together to create a deliciously inviting dish. You know those days when you want something satisfying but easy? This is the answer! I love how you can whip it up in just about 40 minutes, and it’s so versatile that you can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Trust me, once you take that first spoonful and feel the warmth wrap around you, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your rotation. So, let’s dive right into making this scrumptious taco soup that’s sure to impress your loved ones!

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Ingredients for Taco Soup with Ground Beef

Here’s everything you’ll need to create a hearty and flavorful taco soup with ground beef. Make sure to gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 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 (28 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
2 cups beef broth
2 tbsp taco seasoning
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Shredded cheese for topping
Chopped cilantro for garnish
Sour cream for serving

These ingredients combine to create a robust soup that’s not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Get ready to enjoy the comforting flavors of this taco soup!

How to Prepare Taco Soup with Ground Beef

Preparing this taco soup with ground beef is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through each step! Just follow along, and you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal in no time.

Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot, heat over medium heat. Add the 1 lb of ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
Add Aromatics: Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together with the beef until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. The aroma of garlic will start to fill your kitchen, and you’ll know it’s time for the next step!
Spice It Up: Stir in the 2 tbsp of taco seasoning and 1 tsp of cumin. Let them cook for about a minute, stirring well to coat the meat and veggies. This releases their flavors and makes your soup even more aromatic.
Combine Ingredients: Add the drained black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, green chilies, and 2 cups of beef broth to the pot. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. This shouldn’t take long; just a few minutes will do. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low.
Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer gently for about 20 minutes. This is crucial as it helps all those wonderful flavors meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and feel free to taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve and Enjoy: Once it’s done simmering, ladle the soup into bowls. Top with shredded cheese, a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream for that extra creaminess. Wow, the colors and textures are just inviting!

And there you have it! Each step creates layers of flavor that make this taco soup unforgettable. Remember, it’s all about the timing and letting those flavors shine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This taco soup with ground beef is not just another meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and comfort! Here’s why you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again:

Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of ground beef, beans, and corn creates a filling dish that warms you from the inside out.
Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of about 40 minutes, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor-Packed: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients brings a delightful burst of flavor in every spoonful.
Versatile: Feel free to customize it! You can easily swap out proteins, add more veggies, or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Meal Prep Friendly: This soup stores well, making it a fantastic option for leftovers or meal planning!

Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Tips for Success

To truly elevate your taco soup with ground beef, keep these tips in mind for a flawless dish!

Seasoning Adjustments: Don’t hesitate to taste as you go! If you like a bit more heat, add some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños. Alternatively, if you prefer a milder flavor, adjust the taco seasoning accordingly.
Ingredient Sourcing: For the freshest taste, choose high-quality ground beef and organic canned ingredients when possible. It makes a noticeable difference!
Cooking Techniques: Brown the ground beef properly to develop rich flavors. Don’t rush this step; a good sear adds depth to your soup!
Fresh Herbs: Adding chopped fresh cilantro right before serving can brighten the flavors. Don’t skip this step if you love that fresh kick!
Texture Matters: For a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce some of the liquid. If it’s too thick, just stir in a little more beef broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering taco soup perfection!

Variations of Taco Soup with Ground Beef

One of the best things about taco soup with ground beef is how easily you can customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand! Here are some delicious variations to consider:

Different Meats: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You could even use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick fix!
Vegetarian Delight: For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with extra beans or lentils. Add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.
Spice It Up: If you love heat, toss in diced jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or even a pinch of chipotle powder for a smoky kick.
Beans Galore: Mix and match your beans! Use pinto beans, black-eyed peas, or even chickpeas for a unique twist.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or smoked paprika to create a flavor profile that’s uniquely yours!

Feel free to get creative and make this taco soup your own—each variation brings a new twist to this comforting classic!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers of your taco soup with ground beef is super easy! Just let the soup cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top since liquids expand when frozen.

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is a breeze! If you’re using the microwave, place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until it’s hot throughout. For stovetop reheating, pour the soup into a pot, and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s bubbling. If the soup seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Enjoy that comforting warmth all over again!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

While I strive to provide accurate nutritional information for this taco soup with ground beef, please keep in mind that values can vary significantly based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. Factors like the type of ground beef, the brand of canned goods, and the toppings you choose can all influence the final nutritional profile. For the most precise information, I recommend calculating based on the exact ingredients you use. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t forget to savor every bite!

FAQ About Taco Soup with Ground Beef

Got questions about making taco soup with ground beef? I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common inquiries I get, along with my answers to help you out.

Can I make this soup ahead of time? Absolutely! Taco soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.
Is this soup spicy? The spice level depends on the taco seasoning you use. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of seasoning or opt for a mild blend. For those who love heat, feel free to add jalapeños or hot sauce!
Can I freeze taco soup? Yes! This soup freezes well. Just make sure it’s cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I serve with taco soup? This soup pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips for dipping, cornbread, or a simple green salad. You could also serve it with a side of guacamole and salsa for added flavor!
Can I substitute the ground beef? Of course! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a different twist. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

If you have more questions or need further clarification, don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions

To create a delightful meal experience alongside your taco soup with ground beef, consider these tasty accompaniments that enhance the flavors and textures of the dish:

Tortilla Chips: Serve a bowl of crispy tortilla chips for dipping. They add a satisfying crunch and are perfect for scooping up that hearty soup!
Fresh Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread pairs wonderfully with the soup. Its slightly sweet flavor complements the spices beautifully.
Guacamole and Salsa: A side of creamy guacamole and fresh salsa adds a burst of flavor. The creamy texture of the guacamole balances the soup’s warmth.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the soup.
Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, and chili powder makes for an irresistible side dish that’s bursting with flavor!

These serving suggestions not only complement your taco soup but also create a colorful and satisfying dining experience that your family and friends will love!

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For more information on the health benefits of beans, check out this Healthline article.

To learn more about the nutritional value of ground beef, visit this Nutrition Value page.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.