Taco soup is a vibrant and satisfying meal that brings the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine into one hearty bowl. With its rich combination of ground beef, beans, and spices, this soup is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. In this article, we’ll explore an original taco soup recipe, along with tips to perfect it
1. Original Taco Soup Recipe (4 Servings)
Ingredients
- 1 pound 93% lean ground beef
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (15-ounce) cans petite diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can whole kernel corn, well drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can beef broth
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chile peppers, undrained
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ cup shredded Cheddar cheese (for garnish)
- ¼ cup sour cream (for garnish)
- Coarsely crushed tortilla chips
- Fresh jalapeño slices (optional garnish)
- Cracked black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
Cook the beef: In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
Sauté vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
Add liquid ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, beef broth, and diced green chile peppers.
Incorporate beans and corn: Mix in the black beans and drained corn.
Season the soup: Add chili powder, ground cumin, and cracked black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded Cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and crushed tortilla chips. Garnish with fresh jalapeño slices for an extra kick, if desired.
This hearty soup is the perfect blend of savory, spicy, and tangy flavors, offering a delicious taste of Mexican-inspired cuisine.
2. Tips To Perfect Taco Soup
A few key tips can help you elevate your taco soup to the next level:
Use lean ground beef: Opting for 93% lean ground beef ensures the soup isn’t overly greasy while still offering rich flavor.
Adjust the spice level: If you enjoy extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or more diced jalapeños. For a milder soup, reduce the amount of chili powder and cumin.
Fresh toppings: The garnishes are just as important as the soup itself. Use fresh ingredients like jalapeño slices, cilantro, or lime wedges to brighten the flavors.
Simmer for depth: Allowing the soup to simmer for at least 20 minutes helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Customize the thickness: If the soup is too thick, add a splash of beef broth. For a thicker consistency, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
These tips will ensure that your taco soup is rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced every time.
3. What To Eat With Taco Soup
Cornbread: Serve a slice of warm, crumbly cornbread on the side to complement the soup’s savory flavors.
Mexican Rice: A small portion of seasoned rice adds an extra layer of texture and flavor.
Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado provides a cooling contrast to the spicy soup.
Quesadillas: A cheesy quesadilla makes a great companion, perfect for dipping into the soup.
Fresh Salsa and Chips: Pair the soup with a side of fresh salsa and crispy tortilla chips for a fun, crunchy addition.
These pairings make your meal complete while highlighting the vibrant flavors of the soup.
4. How To Store & Reheat Leftovers
Taco soup is an excellent make-ahead dish, as the flavors deepen when stored properly.
Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring in between.
Be sure to store garnishes like cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips separately to preserve their texture and freshness.
Taco soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s easy to make, customize, and enjoy. With its hearty ingredients and bold spices, it’s a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. Follow the recipe, experiment with toppings, and savor every spoonful of this authentic Mexican-inspired soup!
