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Taco Soup

Taco soup is a hearty, seasoned broth-based dish that combines ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices, simmered to develop a rich flavor. The final soup has a thick, comforting texture with tender meat and beans, often topped with cheese, sour cream, and crunchy chips, presenting a vibrant, rustic appearance.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 290

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz, undrained
  • 1 can black beans 15 oz, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels frozen or canned
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
  • sour cream for serving sour cream
  • tortilla chips for serving tortilla chips

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Heat the large pot over medium heat and add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned and no longer pink. This creates a savory aroma and a nice sizzle sound.
    1 lb ground beef
  2. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), stirring to incorporate the beef and release vibrant tomato aromas as the mixture starts bubbling.
    1 can diced tomatoes
  3. Add the drained black beans and corn, stirring to combine all the ingredients evenly. The mixture should look colorful and slightly thickened.
    1 can black beans, 1 cup corn kernels
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, adjusting the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
    1 cup chicken broth
  5. Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well, releasing fragrant spices that fill the air, and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes to thicken and deepen the flavors.
    2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  6. Taste the soup and add more salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed, ensuring it’s perfectly seasoned and flavorful.
    to taste salt and pepper
  7. Once the soup has thickened slightly and the flavors are melded, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, stirring gently until melted and creamy.
    1 cup shredded cheese
  8. Serve the hot taco soup in bowls, topped with dollops of sour cream and crispy tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.
    sour cream for serving sour cream, tortilla chips for serving tortilla chips

Notes

Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or adjust spice levels to suit your taste. Make ahead and reheat for even better flavor development.