Save My friend Sarah dropped by unexpectedly last winter with her three kids, and I had nothing prepared but random pantry staples. I threw everything into a pot and called it taco soup, and now her family requests it every single time they visit. There is something magical about how all those cans and spices transform into something that tastes like it simmered all day.
Last Sunday during the big game, my brother went back for thirds and finally asked what made this soup so addictive. I told him it was the Rotel tomatoes and the smoked paprika working together, but honestly I think it is just the comfort of taco night in soup form.
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Ingredients
- Ground beef: The foundation that gives this soup its hearty protein and rich flavor
- Onion and red bell pepper: These aromatics build the flavor base and add sweetness
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth that garlic powder cannot match
- Black beans and kidney beans: Double the beans means double the texture and protein
- Corn kernels: Sweet bursts that balance the spices perfectly
- Diced tomatoes and Rotel: The combination creates the perfect broth with just enough heat
- Chicken broth: Use a good quality broth since it becomes the soup base
- Taco seasoning and spices: The cumin and smoked paprika give it that authentic taco flavor
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Instructions
- Brown the beef:
- Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat until fully browned, breaking it apart with your spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if you prefer a lighter soup.
- Add the vegetables:
- Toss in the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for about 4 minutes until the vegetables soften and your kitchen starts smelling amazing.
- Bloom the spices:
- Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly for 1 minute to wake up all those spices.
- Add everything else:
- Dump in both cans of beans, the corn, both types of tomatoes, and pour in the chicken broth. Give it a good stir to combine all the flavors.
- Simmer and develop:
- Bring the soup to a bubble then lower the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste and serve:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and let everyone add their own toppings.
Save My niece who claims to hate soup ate two bowls and asked if we could have taco soup every week instead of regular tacos. That is when I knew this recipe was a permanent keeper in our rotation.
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Make It Your Own
Swap ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you want something lighter. I have even made a vegetarian version with extra beans and plant based crumbles that fooled everyone.
The Topping Strategy
Set up a topping bar with shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, cilantro, green onions, crushed chips, and lime wedges. Watching everyone customize their bowl is half the fun.
Meal Prep Magic
This soup freezes beautifully and actually tastes better on day two when all the spices have had time to mingle. I always make a double batch.
- Let the soup cool completely before freezing
- Store toppings separately to keep everything fresh
- Reheat with a splash of broth to restore consistency
Save There is nothing quite like watching a room full of people happily customize their bowls while this soup simmers away on the stove.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. You can cook the entire batch, cool it completely, and then store it in an an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- → How can I make this a vegetarian option?
To create a meat-free version, simply omit the ground beef. You can add an extra can of beans, such as pinto or cannellini, or incorporate plant-based protein crumbles to maintain the hearty texture and protein content.
- → What are the best toppings to serve with this?
Classic toppings greatly enhance the experience! Popular choices include shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, fresh chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, and crunchy tortilla chips or strips. Don't forget a squeeze of fresh lime!
- → Can I use different types of meat?
Yes, feel free to substitute the ground beef. Ground turkey or chicken work wonderfully for a leaner alternative. Ensure to brown and drain them properly as you would with beef.
- → How can I adjust the spiciness?
To increase the heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, use hot diced tomatoes with green chilies, or serve with fresh sliced jalapeños. For a milder version, opt for mild diced tomatoes with chilies and reduce the chili powder.
- → Is this dish naturally gluten-free?
This dish can be gluten-free, but it's important to verify your ingredients. Ensure that your taco seasoning and chicken broth are certified gluten-free. Most canned beans, corn, and tomatoes are naturally gluten-free.
