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 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 packet taco seasoning; 4 cups beef broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips

Highlighted under: Comfort Cravings Kitchen

I love making Classic Taco Soup with Beef for my family on chilly evenings. It’s a hearty and comforting meal that comes together quickly, and the flavor is just incredible! With all the spices mixing in with the beef and veggies, every single bite is an explosion of taste. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use up pantry staples. I've experimented with various toppings, and trust me, a sprinkle of cheese and a dollop of sour cream elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:54:29.318Z

Creating my Classic Taco Soup with Beef has become a cherished routine in our household. The combination of spices, fresh vegetables, and juicy beef amplifies the taste, making it a favorite for everyone. The fact that it can be made in just one pot is a lifesaver, keeping cleanup minimal while I spend more quality time with my family.

I’ve found that the secret to absolute flavor lies in letting it simmer a bit longer after cooking the beef. This way, all the spices mingle beautifully, and each spoonful delivers the comforting warmth everyone craves. Pair it with tortilla chips, and you’ve got a winner!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A filling and flavorful meal that's quick to prepare.
Perfect for meal prep or freezing for later.
Customizable with your favorite toppings and sides.

Cooking Techniques for Taco Soup

When browning the ground beef, aim for a deep brown color to develop rich flavors. This Maillard reaction enhances the overall taste of the soup. If you're using leaner beef, keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent it from becoming dry; about 5-7 minutes over medium heat should suffice. Don't forget to break up the meat into small crumbles for even cooking and browning.

Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding the other ingredients is crucial. It allows the flavors to meld, making your soup aromatic and layered. Cook until the onions are translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This step ensures they're soft and sweet, rather than sharp and harsh, creating a base flavor that permeates the dish.

Ingredient Insights

Using low-sodium beef broth helps control the saltiness of the soup, allowing you to season to your taste. The broth is essential, not just for moisture but also for infusing flavor throughout the soup. If you're in a pinch, homemade broth or even vegetable broth can enhance the flavor while being lighter on the palate.

The diced tomatoes with green chilies provide both acidity and a spicy kick, elevating the overall flavor profile. If you prefer a milder soup, you can substitute plain diced tomatoes and adjust the spice level with additional taco seasoning or fresh herbs like cilantro for garnish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 packet taco seasoning
4 cups beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to cook the soup:

Cook the Beef

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Sauté Vegetables

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and beef broth. Mix well.

Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Allow it to cook for approximately 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Season and Serve

Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.

Enjoy your delicious soup with tortilla chips or your favorite bread!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a squeeze of lime juice just before serving. It enhances the taste remarkably!

Storage and Reheating

This taco soup is excellent for meal prep and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors only get better as it sits and melds. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers to prevent ice crystals.

When reheating, the soup can be warmed on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. If it seems too thick after freezing, add a splash of beef broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This taco soup shines when topped with fresh ingredients. A generous sprinkle of shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and slices of creamy avocado all contribute to a richer flavor and different textures. I often serve it with crispy tortilla chips for added crunch, but you can also pair it with crusty bread for a heartier meal.

For a twist, consider serving the soup over a bed of tortilla chips for a deconstructed nacho experience. Alternatively, topping it with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or jalapeños can bring a refreshing brightness that balances the hearty flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and will lower the fat content while still being flavorful.

→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can replace the beef with extra beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

→ Can this soup be frozen?

Absolutely! Allow it to cool completely before packaging it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months.

→ What are some good toppings for this soup?

Some excellent toppings include shredded cheese, avocado slices, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.