taco soup recipe
This taco soup recipe is a delicious and easy one-pot meal that brings all the bold flavors of tacos into a cozy, comforting soup. Made with lean ground beef, beans, veggies, and zesty spices, this hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
Ingredients
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 1 1/4 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 1 (14 oz) can low-sodium beef broth
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 3/4 tsp ground paprika
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 1 1/2 dry ranch dressing mix
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 1/2 cup frozen corn
- 1 (14.5 oz) can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can pinto beans drained and rinsed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Heat the oil: First, warm olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This prevents sticking and adds a lovely base flavor.
- Cook the beef: Add the lean ground beef and cook until it’s browned. Make sure to break it apart as it cooks for even browning.
- Add aromatics: Next, toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and jalapeño. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Mix in the liquids: Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chiles, beef broth, and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Season generously: Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and the ranch mix (or cilantro and lime juice). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
- Finish with beans and corn: Stir in the frozen corn, black beans, and pinto beans. Cook until everything is heated through, about 5 minutes.
Notes
- Boost the flavor: Add a squeeze of lime juice just before serving to brighten up the flavors.
- For a thicker soup: Mash a few of the beans before adding them to the pot.
- Storage tips: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Versatile options: You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or even make it vegetarian by adding more beans and veggies.