Classic Taco Soup with Beef

Name: Classic Taco Soup with Beef
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
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 (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices; 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained; 1 packet taco seasoning; 4 cups beef broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Shredded cheese; Sour cream; Chopped green onions; Diced avocado; Tortilla chips

Highlighted under: Easy Everyday Meals

I love making Classic Taco Soup with Beef because it brings together all my favorite flavors in one delicious bowl. This recipe is not only quick and easy, but it’s also packed with protein and comforting spices that warm the soul. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, it requires minimal prep time and utilizes pantry staples. Pair it with your favorite toppings for a personalized touch, and you have a satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table!

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2026-02-02T16:30:27.895Z

When I first stumbled upon a taco soup recipe, I knew I had to give it a try. Combining the bold flavors of traditional tacos into a comforting soup seemed like the ultimate cozy meal. After experimenting with several variations, I’ve found that browning the beef adds depth and enhances the flavors of the spices, making a noticeable difference in the final dish.

One thing I love about this recipe is its versatility; you can easily adjust the spice levels to your preference and add any toppings your heart desires—cheese, sour cream, or even avocado make great choices. I also recommend serving it with crunchy tortilla chips for that added texture!

You'll Love This Recipe Because
Hearty and satisfying with every spoonful
Rich blend of spices that enhance the beef flavor
Quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

When making Classic Taco Soup with Beef, using high-quality ground beef can significantly enhance the dish's overall flavor. Opt for an 80/20 beef blend for a balance of taste and fat. This blend ensures the meat stays juicy during cooking and provides the robust flavor that complements the soup’s spices beautifully. Additionally, fresh ingredients, such as finely chopped onions and garlic, create a flavorful base that enhances the overall dish.

Don’t underestimate the role of seasonings in this recipe. Taco seasoning is a blend of spices that introduces heat and depth to the soup. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own taco seasoning by mixing chili powder, cumin, paprika, onion powder, and oregano. This substitute allows for personalized flavor profiles and can be adjusted to your preferred spice level.

Techniques for Flavor Development

Browning the ground beef before adding other ingredients is a key step that enhances the soup's flavor. When beef is cooked until golden brown, it develops a rich umami taste due to the Maillard reaction. Make sure to break up the beef into small pieces as it cooks to ensure even browning. If the beef releases too much fat during cooking, draining it helps keep the soup from becoming greasy.

Simmering the soup for at least 20 minutes is essential for allowing the ingredients’ flavors to meld. During this time, the kidney beans and black beans will absorb the spices and liquids, making them more flavorful. If you're short on time, you can simmer for as little as 10 minutes, but the longer simmering period really allows the soup to develop a comforting, cohesive taste.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Classic Taco Soup with Beef

For the Soup

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 (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 packet taco seasoning
4 cups beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings (Optional)

Shredded cheese
Sour cream
Chopped green onions
Diced avocado
Tortilla chips

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before starting for an efficient cooking experience.

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.

Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, sautéing until the onion is translucent.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, corn, taco seasoning, and beef broth. Bring to a boil.

Simmer the Soup

Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve Hot

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your choice of toppings. Enjoy!

Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your personal preference!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice just before serving, or use fresh cilantro as a garnish for a burst of freshness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Classic Taco Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. To reheat, simply pour the soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup is too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave. Freezing the soup in individual portions makes it easy to grab a quick meal during the week.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While toppings are optional, they can elevate the soup's flavors and textures significantly. A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess, while shredded cheese introduces a melty, savory layer. Chopped green onions can provide a fresh crunch, and diced avocado adds healthy fats and a smooth contrast to the soup’s warmth. Don’t forget tortilla chips; they not only serve as a fun crunch but also provide a satisfying contrast to the creamy toppings.

For a variation, you can easily make this soup vegetarian by swapping the ground beef for textured vegetable protein or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and add extra vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the texture and nutritional value. This adaptable recipe caters to various dietary preferences while maintaining its comforting essence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will still provide delicious flavor.

→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can substitute the beef with lentils or additional beans, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

→ Can I freeze leftover soup?

Yes! The soup freezes well. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What are some good toppings for taco soup?

Some popular toppings include shredded cheese, diced avocados, sour cream, and chopped green onions.