Taco Soup Recipe: 10-Minute Prep for Easy Weeknights

Taco Soup Recipe is the perfect solution when you need a hearty, flavor-packed meal that comes together effortlessly. This crowd-pleasing dish combines savory ground beef (or your favorite protein), fiber-rich beans, zesty tomatoes, and a blend of Mexican-inspired spices for a comforting bowl of deliciousness.

Ideal for busy weeknights, game-day gatherings, or meal prep, this one-pot wonder delivers big taste with minimal cleanup. The best part? You can customize it to suit any preference – make it spicy with jalapeños, creamy with cheese, or keep it light with extra veggies.

In this Taco Soup Recipe, we’ll cover:

• The essential ingredients for maximum flavor
• Simple step-by-step cooking instructions
• Clever variations to make it your own
• Pro tips for serving and storing leftovers

Get ready to warm up with this easy, satisfying soup that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Key Ingredients of Taco Soup Recipe

Ingredients

• ½ lb (225g) lean ground beef (or turkey)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 (10 oz / 280g) cans diced tomatoes with green chiles (e.g., Rotel)
• 1 (15 oz / 425g) can kidney beans, drained & rinsed
• 1 (15 oz / 425g) can white hominy, drained & rinsed
• 1 (1.25 oz / 35g) packet taco seasoning
• 1 (1 oz / 28g) packet ranch dressing mix
• 1 ½ cups (360ml) water (adjust as needed for consistency)

Optional Toppings

• ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup sour cream

Instructions

1. Brown the Meat:
   • In a Dutch oven or large pot, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until meat is browned (5-7 min). Drain excess fat.
2. Add Remaining Ingredients:
   • Stir in diced tomatoes with chiles, kidney beans, hominy, taco seasoning, ranch mix, and water. Mix well.
3. Simmer:
   • Bring to a low simmer, cover, and cook for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Add more water (½ cup at a time) if the soup thickens too much.
4. Serve:
   • Ladle into bowls and top with cheddar cheese and sour cream (if using).

Notes

✅ Hominy adds a unique texture, but you can substitute corn if preferred.
✅ For extra spice, add jalapeños or hot sauce.
✅ Stovetop Shortcut: Simmer for 30-40 min if short on time (flavors will still meld well).

Creative Variations of Taco Soup

What makes taco soup an irresistible dish is how easily you can adapt it to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Vegetarian Taco Soup: Skip the meat and add extra beans, tofu, or roasted vegetables for a satisfying plant-based option.
• Slow Cooker Taco Soup: Combine all ingredients in your slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
• Keto Taco Soup: Leave out the beans and corn and instead focus on ground meat, creamy additions like cheese or cream cheese, and low-carb vegetables.
• Extra Spicy Taco Soup: Kick up the heat by including diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or a generous drizzle of hot sauce.

Looking for more hearty and creative meals? Try the ultimate taco casserole, which shares many of the same flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Once your taco soup is ready, take it to the next level with these serving tips:

• Garnishes: Add shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, diced avocado, or fresh lime wedges for a zesty touch. Chopped cilantro gives the soup a pop of fresh flavor.
• Side Dishes: Serve alongside warm cornbread, crusty bread, or tortilla chips. Try this honey butter cornbread from Gem Recipes for a perfect pairing.
• Drinks: Complement the meal with lime-infused sparkling water, a chilled margarita, or a refreshing iced tea.

FAQs About Taco Soup Recipe

Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about taco soup:

• Can you store taco soup in the freezer? Yes, you can freeze it! Once the soup has cooled completely, transfer it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It will stay fresh for up to three months.
• How long can taco soup last in the fridge? You can refrigerate taco soup in a sealed container for up to 4 days.
• Which beans work best for taco soup? While black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans are traditional choices, you can mix and match to suit your taste or even try something new like cannellini beans.
• What’s the easiest way to adjust the spice level? To make it spicier, add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños. For a milder soup, reduce these spices or use sweet bell peppers instead.

Conclusion

Taco soup is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, offering bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and endless customization options. Whether you’re sticking to the classic recipe or trying out new variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

For more creative ideas, check out this Spring Vegetable Fettuccine Alfredo in 6 Easy Steps.