Beef Taco Soup

Directions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Season the Beef

Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture. Stir well so the spices evenly coat the meat and onions. Let cook for about 1 minute to bloom the flavors.

Step 4: Add Liquids

Pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Scrape the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful bits.

Step 5: Add Beans and Corn

Stir in the diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and corn. The soup should look hearty and colorful at this stage.

Step 6: Simmer

Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning

Taste the soup and adjust with salt and black pepper as needed. If you prefer a thinner soup, add a little more broth.

Step 8: Rest Before Serving

Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and deepen.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy

Variations & Substitutions

Slow Cooker Version

Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Spicy Taco Soup

Add diced jalapeños, chili powder, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Lighter Option

Use lean ground beef or ground turkey and reduce the amount of beans slightly.

Creamy Taco Soup

Stir in 120 ml (½ cup) cream cheese or heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier soup.

Serving Suggestions