If you’re looking for a fast, flavorful dinner that satisfies everyone at the table, this easy taco soup is the answer.
Packed with ground beef, beans, corn, and the zesty seasoning of classic tacos, it’s everything you love about Taco Tuesday—served up in a warm, comforting bowl.
The best part? It comes together in just 30 minutes using pantry staples. Weeknight win!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Taco Soup
Quick to make – ready in 30 minutes or less
One pot = minimal cleanup
Bold Tex-Mex flavors – like a taco in soup form
Kid-friendly and customizable
Perfect for meal prep or freezer meals
Top it your way – cheese, sour cream, chips, avocado, and more
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Ground beef – rich and hearty protein base
Taco seasoning – adds classic Southwest flavor
Onion and garlic – aromatic base for the soup
Black beans and kidney beans – protein-packed and filling
Corn – adds sweetness and color
Tomato sauce and diced tomatoes with green chilies – creates a flavorful base
Beef broth – brings everything together
Salt and pepper – to season to taste
Pro Tips Before You Start
Drain and rinse canned beans to reduce sodium
Use homemade taco seasoning for full control over flavor
Add more broth if you prefer a thinner consistency
Brown the beef well before adding other ingredients
Let it simmer for 10–15 minutes to blend flavors
How to Make Easy Taco Soup
Step 1: Brown the beef
In a large soup pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned.
Break it apart as it cooks.
Step 2: Add aromatics
Stir in the chopped onion and garlic.
Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Season and build the soup
Add taco seasoning, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with green chilies, both beans, corn, and beef broth. Stir everything together.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
Reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 5: Taste and serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Ladle into bowls and add your favorite toppings.
What to Serve It With
Tortilla chips – for crunch and scooping
Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese – for melty goodness
Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt – to cool the spice
Avocado or guacamole – adds creamy richness
Cornbread or crusty bread – perfect for dipping
Variations / Substitutions
Use ground turkey or chicken – for a leaner version
Make it vegetarian – skip the meat and double the beans
Spice it up – add jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce
Add rice or quinoa – for extra bulk
Make it creamy – stir in cream cheese or heavy cream before serving
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days
Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or microwave. Add broth if it thickens
Meal prep tip: Portion into jars or containers for easy grab-and-go lunches
FAQs
Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?
Yes! Or make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano.
Should I drain the beans and corn?
Definitely—draining helps control the texture and salt level.
Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients and cook on low for 4–6 hours.
What broth is best?
Beef broth offers the richest flavor, but chicken or vegetable broth works too.
Can I freeze taco soup?
Absolutely! Just leave off any toppings and store in freezer-safe containers.
Is it spicy?
Mild if using standard taco seasoning, but you can adjust heat to your taste.
How do I thicken taco soup?
Let it simmer uncovered, or stir in a bit of cream cheese or shredded cheese.
Final Thoughts
This easy taco soup is everything I love in a dinner recipe—fast, flavorful, and filling.
It’s one of those meals I turn to again and again, especially when I want to clean out the pantry and still impress the family.
It’s hearty, cozy, and tastes even better the next day. Definitely a keeper!
Easy Taco Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Brown ground beef in a soup pot.
- Add onion and garlic; cook until soft.
- Stir in taco seasoning, tomato sauce, beans, corn, tomatoes, and broth.
- Simmer 10–15 minutes.
- Season to taste and serve with toppings.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/easy-taco-soup-3/
Notes
- For extra heat, add cayenne or hot sauce.
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or shredded chicken if you prefer.
- This soup freezes beautifully—perfect for batch cooking!
