Taco soup is a hearty, savory dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of a taco in a comforting bowl of soup. It's a one-pot recipe, perfect for busy weeknights and a great crowd-pleaser for parties and gatherings. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, so feel free to use whatever ingredients you have on hand or customize to your liking.
Photos of One-Pot Taco Soup Recipe
The ingredients required for this recipe are generally common pantry items. However, taco seasoning, a key ingredient, might not be readily available in everyone's kitchen. You can find this in the spice aisle at any supermarket. You may also want to check the international foods aisle for pico de gallo if you prefer not to make it from scratch.
Ingredients for One-Pot Taco Soup
Ground beef: This forms the protein base for our soup. When cooked, it adds a rich, savory flavor.
Onion: Adds a sweet and aromatic flavor when cooked, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.
Kidney beans and Black beans: They add a wonderful texture and are a good source of protein and fiber.
Corn kernels: Gives a hint of sweetness and crunch to the soup. You can use fresh, frozen, or canned.
Tomatoes and Tomato sauce: They give the soup its body and tangy flavor.
Taco seasoning: A mix of spices like chili powder, cumin, and oregano, giving your soup the classic taco flavor.
Cheddar cheese, Sour cream, and Avocado: Used for garnishing. They add creaminess and a nice contrasting flavor.
Pico de gallo: A fresh salsa that adds a bit of freshness and acidity to balance the flavors.
Tortilla chips: Adds a nice crunch. You could also use corn chips.
Lime wedges: Squeezed on top just before eating, they add a burst of freshness.
Cilantro: Adds a fresh and earthy flavor to the soup.
One reader, Ivette Wilkes says:
This one-pot taco soup recipe is a game-changer! It's so easy to make and tastes incredible. The flavors are rich and satisfying, and the toppings add a perfect finishing touch. Plus, it's a hit with the whole family. Highly recommend giving it a try!
Cooking Techniques for One-Pot Taco Soup
How to brown ground beef: In a large pot, add the ground beef and cook over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon until it is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
How to chop onion: Peel the onion, cut it in half from root to tip, lay each half flat and make horizontal cuts, then slice vertically to dice.
How to drain canned beans and corn: Open the cans of kidney beans, black beans, and corn, then pour them into a colander or strainer. Rinse them under cold water and shake to drain off excess liquid.
How to make taco seasoning: Combine 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon salt in a small bowl.
How to serve taco soup: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, a spoonful of pico de gallo, sliced avocado, a handful of tortilla chips, a squeeze of lime juice, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro.
How To Make One-Pot Taco Soup
Slurp in some of this delicious 30-minute taco soup made with ground beef, kidney beans, corn kernels, and tomato sauce — all cooked in one pot!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lblean ground beef
- 1small onion,chopped
- 15ozkidney bean,canned (1 can)
- 15ozblack bean,canned (1 can)
- 15ozcorn kernels,canned (1 can)
- 15oztomato,canned (1 can) diced
- 8oztomato sauce,(1 can)
- 2tbsptaco seasoning
- 1cheddar cheese,shredded, to serve
- 1sour cream,to serve
- 1pico de gallo,to serve
- 1avocado,sliced to serve
- 1tortilla chip,to serve
- 1lime wedge,to serve
- 1cilantro,chopped to serve
Instructions
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Add the ground beef and onion to a large pot and stir until the beef is cooked through.
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Drain excess liquid.
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Add the kidney beans, black beans, corn, tomatoes, tomato sauce, and taco seasoning to the pot, and stir until combined. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes.
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Serve with cheddar cheese, sour cream, pico de gallo, avocado, corn chips, lime wedges, and cilantro.
Nutrition
- Calories: 873.53kcal
- Fat: 24.58g
- Saturated Fat: 7.85g
- Trans Fat: 0.95g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10.78g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.30g
- Carbohydrates: 115.96g
- Fiber: 34.81g
- Sugar: 9.75g
- Protein: 50.75g
- Cholesterol: 58.44mg
- Sodium: 496.00mg
- Calcium: 257.93mg
- Potassium: 2947.42mg
- Iron: 12.12mg
- Vitamin A: 68.22µg
- Vitamin C: 20.48mg
Helpful Technique for Preparing One-Pot Taco Soup
When cooking the ground beef, make sure to break it up into small, even pieces. This will ensure that it cooks evenly and integrates well with the other ingredients in the soup. Also, when adding the taco seasoning, sprinkle it evenly over the entire pot of ingredients, rather than dumping it in one spot. This will help distribute the flavors more evenly throughout the soup.
Time-Saving Tips for Making One-Pot Taco Soup
Prep ahead: Chop and measure ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process and save time.
Use canned ingredients: Utilize canned beans, corn, and tomatoes to cut down on prep time without sacrificing flavor.
One-pot cooking: Opt for one-pot recipes like this taco soup to minimize cleanup and cooking time.
Multi-task: While the soup simmers, prepare the toppings and garnishes to make the most of your time in the kitchen.
Invest in quality tools: Quality knives and kitchen gadgets can make prep work more efficient, saving you time in the long run.
Substitute Ingredients For One-Pot Taco Soup Recipe
lean ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a lean and healthy alternative to ground beef, and it provides a similar texture and flavor in dishes like taco soup.
kidney beans - Substitute with pinto beans: Pinto beans have a similar texture and flavor to kidney beans, making them a suitable substitute in taco soup.
black beans - Substitute with cannellini beans: Cannellini beans are a creamy and mild-flavored alternative to black beans, adding a different dimension to the soup.
corn kernels - Substitute with frozen mixed vegetables: Frozen mixed vegetables can provide a variety of vegetables and colors, adding visual appeal and nutritional value to the soup.
tomato sauce - Substitute with diced tomatoes: Diced tomatoes can add a chunkier texture and a fresher taste compared to tomato sauce.
taco seasoning - Substitute with chili powder, cumin, and paprika: A combination of these spices can replicate the flavors of taco seasoning, allowing you to customize the spice level to your preference.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack cheese has a mild flavor and melts well, making it a great alternative for topping the taco soup.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a creamy and tangy element similar to sour cream, while also adding a boost of protein.
pico de gallo - Substitute with salsa: Salsa can provide a similar combination of fresh tomatoes, onions, and peppers, adding a burst of flavor to the soup.
avocado - Substitute with guacamole: Guacamole offers the creamy texture and rich flavor of avocados, along with added seasonings for extra depth.
tortilla chips - Substitute with corn tortillas: Cut corn tortillas into strips and bake them until crispy to use as a crunchy topping for the soup.
lime wedge - Substitute with lemon wedge: A lemon wedge can provide a similar citrusy brightness to the soup as a substitute for lime.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can provide a fresh and herbaceous flavor similar to cilantro, without the soapy taste for those who are sensitive to it.
Presentation Ideas for Serving One-Pot Taco Soup
Elevate the plating: Present the taco soup in a deep, wide-rimmed bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and layers of ingredients. This will create a visually appealing presentation that is both inviting and appetizing.
Garnish with precision: Carefully place the sliced avocado, lime wedge, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top of the soup. This adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the dish.
Create a symphony of textures: Add a small handful of crispy tortilla chips on the side of the bowl to provide a delightful crunch, contrasting with the hearty and comforting texture of the soup.
Balance the elements: Drizzle a dollop of sour cream on top of the soup, and sprinkle a generous amount of finely grated cheddar cheese. This creates a beautiful balance of creamy and savory flavors, enhancing the overall taste and presentation.
Emphasize the details: Place a small spoonful of pico de gallo on the edge of the bowl, adding a burst of color and a touch of acidity to the dish. This attention to detail will impress the judges and elevate the overall dining experience.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Taco Soup
- Large pot: A large, heavy-bottomed pot is essential for cooking the taco soup as it allows for even heat distribution and ample space for all the ingredients.
- Stirring spoon: A sturdy stirring spoon is necessary for mixing and stirring the ingredients in the pot to ensure they are well combined and cooked evenly.
- Strainer: A strainer can be used to drain excess liquid from the cooked ground beef and onion before adding the other ingredients to the pot.
- Serving bowls: These are essential for serving the taco soup once it's ready to be enjoyed. Choose bowls that are large enough to hold a generous portion of the soup and toppings.
- Cheese grater: If using block cheese, a cheese grater will be needed to grate the cheddar cheese for topping the taco soup.
- Ladle: A ladle is useful for serving the taco soup into individual bowls, ensuring that each serving has an equal amount of delicious ingredients.
- Cutting board: A cutting board is necessary for preparing the avocado, lime, and cilantro for garnishing the taco soup.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting the avocado and cilantro, as well as for slicing the lime into wedges for serving.
- Individual serving dishes: These are useful for serving the toppings such as sour cream, pico de gallo, and tortilla chips alongside the taco soup, allowing each person to customize their soup to their liking.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for One-Pot Taco Soup
- Allow the taco soup to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 4-5 days in the fridge.
- If you plan to freeze the soup, follow these steps:
- Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion during freezing.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, laying them flat for efficient storage.
- Frozen taco soup will maintain its best quality for up to 3 months.
- To reheat the refrigerated or frozen soup:
- If frozen, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
- Transfer the soup to a pot and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature.
- If the soup appears too thick after reheating, add a little water or broth to adjust the consistency.
- When reheating, be sure to bring the soup to a boil to ensure it's heated through properly.
- Avoid freezing the soup with toppings like sour cream, avocado, or tortilla chips, as they may become soggy or unappetizing upon thawing. Add fresh toppings when serving the reheated soup.
How To Reheat Leftover Taco Soup
Stovetop method: transfer the leftover taco soup to a pot and reheat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the soup is evenly reheated without burning or sticking to the bottom of the pot. If the soup appears too thick, you can add a small amount of water or broth to thin it out.
Microwave method: pour the leftover taco soup into a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave the soup on high power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until it is heated through. Be cautious when removing the bowl from the microwave, as it may be hot, and stir the soup well to distribute the heat evenly.
Slow cooker method: if you have a larger quantity of leftover taco soup, you can reheat it in a slow cooker. Transfer the soup to the slow cooker and set it on low heat for 1-2 hours, or until it is heated through. This method is convenient if you want to reheat the soup without much supervision, and it can help the flavors meld together even more.
Oven method: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover taco soup to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the soup is heated through. Stir the soup occasionally to ensure even heating. This method is useful if you want to reheat the soup alongside other dishes or if you prefer a hands-off approach.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the taco soup well to distribute the heat evenly and avoid hot spots. Also, ensure that the soup reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming to prevent foodborne illness. Lastly, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed, as flavors may have intensified or mellowed during storage.
Interesting Trivia About Taco Soup
Taco soup is a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit different tastes and preferences.
Is Making One-Pot Taco Soup Budget-Friendly?
This one-pot taco soup recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The combination of lean ground beef, beans, and vegetables makes it a budget-friendly option. The versatility of the ingredients allows for easy customization based on what's available, reducing waste and cost. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it an affordable and satisfying meal. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability, nutritional value, and delicious taste.
Is This Taco Soup Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
The one-pot taco soup recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines lean ground beef, beans, vegetables, and classic Mexican seasonings. While it does offer some nutritional benefits, there are also a few aspects that could be improved to make it a healthier option.
On the positive side, this recipe includes:
- Lean ground beef, which is a good source of protein
- Kidney beans and black beans, providing fiber and additional protein
- Corn and tomatoes, offering vitamins and minerals
- Onion, which adds flavor and contains antioxidants
However, the recipe also includes some less healthy components, such as:
- Cheddar cheese and sour cream, which are high in saturated fat and calories
- Tortilla chips, which are often deep-fried and high in sodium
- Taco seasoning, which may contain added salt and preservatives
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Use a leaner cut of ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken
- Rinse the canned beans to reduce sodium content
- Opt for low-sodium or no-salt-added tomatoes and tomato sauce
- Prepare homemade taco seasoning to control salt and preservative intake
- Reduce the amount of cheese and sour cream, or choose low-fat alternatives
- Serve with baked tortilla chips or whole-grain crackers instead of deep-fried chips
- Add more vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, to increase fiber and nutrient content
- Use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative to sour cream
- Garnish with fresh lime juice and cilantro to add flavor without extra calories
Editor's Opinion on This One-Pot Taco Soup Recipe
This one-pot taco soup recipe is a delightful and hearty dish that brings together the flavors of a classic taco in a comforting soup form. The combination of lean ground beef, beans, corn, and tomatoes creates a rich and satisfying base, while the taco seasoning adds a perfect blend of spices. The toppings of cheddar cheese, sour cream, pico de gallo, avocado, and cilantro add a refreshing and creamy finish, complementing the soup beautifully. The addition of lime wedges and tortilla chips provides a zesty and crunchy element, elevating the overall experience. It's a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe that's perfect for any occasion.
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Why trust this One-Pot Taco Soup Recipe:
This one-pot taco soup recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor. The combination of lean ground beef, kidney beans, black beans, and corn kernels creates a hearty and satisfying base. The addition of tomatoes and tomato sauce infuses the soup with rich, savory notes, while the taco seasoning adds a perfect blend of spices. Topped with creamy cheddar cheese, zesty sour cream, fresh pico de gallo, and creamy avocado, this soup is a fiesta for the taste buds. Serve with crunchy tortilla chips, a squeeze of lime, and a sprinkle of fragrant cilantro.
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