Easy Taco Soup with Ground Beef

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Rich, hearty, and irresistibly satisfying, Easy Taco Soup with Ground Beef brings the bold flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine into one comforting bowl. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, sweet corn, black beans, and zesty tomatoes, this soup is a go-to favorite for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. A dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese take it to the next level, while optional toppings like jalapeño slices and fresh cilantro add extra flair.

Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner fix or a cozy one-pot meal to warm the soul, this taco soup delivers big on taste with minimal effort. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s endlessly customizable, making it just as perfect for picky eaters as it is for spice lovers. Serve it with tortilla chips or warm cornbread for the ultimate dinner idea that satisfies every craving.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Taco Soup with Ground Beef

• Quick and easy to prepare with pantry staples
• Bold, comforting flavors in every bite
• One-pot simplicity for easy cleanup
• Great for meal prep and leftovers
• Easily adaptable to dietary needs or spice preferences

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, and Why They Matter)

To make this taco soup effortlessly, you’ll want to have a few key tools on hand:

• Large Dutch Oven or Stockpot: Ideal for evenly browning meat and simmering soup without scorching.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Great for breaking up the ground beef and stirring ingredients without damaging your pot.
• Can Opener: You’ll use a few canned items, so a reliable opener is a must.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure balanced seasoning and the perfect soup consistency.

These tools streamline your cooking process and help avoid kitchen messes or uneven cooking, especially when you’re multitasking.

Preparation Tips

Use lean ground beef (like 85/15 or 90/10) to keep the soup flavorful without being too greasy. Drain excess fat after browning to keep the broth light. Don’t skip blooming your taco seasoning with the meat—it enhances the spices and deepens the flavor. Rinse canned beans to reduce excess sodium, and add them near the end of cooking to keep their texture firm. For extra kick, stir in chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce while the soup simmers. And always taste before serving—you may want to adjust salt, spice, or add a squeeze of lime for brightness.

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Ingredients for Easy Taco Soup with Ground Beef

• 1 lb ground beef (85/15 lean recommended)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade blend)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for extra warmth)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
• 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth (add more for thinner soup)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, jalapeño slices, crushed tortilla chips

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Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Use a wooden spoon to break the beef into crumbles as it cooks.

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Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasoning

Stir in the minced garlic, taco seasoning, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to allow the spices to bloom and coat the meat evenly.

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Step 3: Mix in the Canned Ingredients

Add the black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes (both plain and with green chilies), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

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Step 4: Simmer to Develop Flavor

Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.

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Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Consistency

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If the soup is too thick, stir in more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

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Step 6: Serve with Toppings

Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each serving with your choice of shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, jalapeño slices, or crushed tortilla chips for added crunch and flavor.

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Notes

This Easy Taco Soup with Ground Beef is one of those recipes that welcomes flexibility. You can easily switch out the ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat to suit your preferences. If you enjoy a smoky depth, use fire-roasted tomatoes or even add a dash of chipotle chili powder. Want it creamier? Stir in a bit of cream cheese or heavy cream at the end. It also scales up perfectly for a crowd or freezes beautifully for future meals. Always remember: toppings are where you can get creative and tailor each bowl to the person enjoying it.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Not draining the fat: Leaving too much fat after browning the beef can make the soup greasy.
• Skipping the spice bloom: Failing to cook the spices with the beef before adding liquid can result in a flat flavor.
• Overcooking the beans: Adding them too early or cooking on high heat for too long can cause beans to break apart.
• Too much broth too soon: Always add broth gradually so you can control the consistency.
• Undertasting: Forgetting to taste and adjust salt or acidity can leave the soup bland.

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Storage Instructions

Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in intervals until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much during storage.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 390
• Protein: 27g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 850mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this taco soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the meat first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.

How do I make it spicier?

Add extra diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative.

What can I serve with taco soup?

It pairs well with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes. Skip the beef and add an extra can of beans or lentils, and use vegetable broth.

How do I thicken the soup?

Let it simmer longer uncovered, or mash some of the beans to create a thicker texture.

Can I freeze taco soup?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when ready.

Is this soup gluten-free?

It can be if you ensure all canned goods and taco seasoning are certified gluten-free.

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Conclusion

Easy Taco Soup with Ground Beef checks all the boxes for a comforting, flavorful, and quick-to-make meal. It’s incredibly versatile and full of Tex-Mex charm that brings people together around the table. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or meal-prepping for the week, this soup offers satisfaction in every spoonful. Make it once, and it’ll surely become part of your regular dinner rotation.

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