Taco soup with beef corn

This taco soup has been a go-to comfort meal in my kitchen, especially on chilly evenings when something warm and satisfying is exactly what you need. It combines familiar Tex-Mex flavors with the ease of a one-pot dish that the whole family can enjoy.

I first made this when I had leftover taco seasoning and it immediately became a favorite. The kids now ask for it whenever they want something cozy and flavorful without fuss.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: for browning the meat and onions providing a subtle richness
• Ground beef: the hearty protein base and flavor contributor choose 80/20 for best balance of taste and fat
• Yellow onion: diced for sweetness and texture look for firm onions without soft spots
• Garlic cloves: minced to add aromatic depth and a mild kick
• Taco seasoning: the spice blend that gives the soup its signature flavor homemade works great if you have it
• Green pepper: diced adds crunch and freshness pick bright green firm peppers
• Beef broth: liquid base enhancing savory notes low-sodium variety lets you control saltiness
• Frozen corn: sweet kernels that bring a pop of color and texture no need to thaw before adding
• Canned black beans and pinto beans: protein and fiber packed drained and rinsed to reduce sodium
• Tomato sauce: thickens and enriches the soup with a tangy undertone
• Rotel tomatoes: diced tomatoes with green chilies add a gentle heat and fresh tomato flavor
• Green chilies: small jarred chilies bring mild spice and smoky flavor
• Water: optional to thin out the soup if it gets too thick during cooking

Instructions

Browning the Meat and Onions:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and diced onions. Cook while breaking up the meat with a spoon until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are soft about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain excess fat carefully to keep the soup from being greasy.

Adding Aromatics and Seasoning:

Stir in minced garlic and the taco seasoning. Cook for about one minute until fragrant which helps the spices bloom and deepen the flavor base.

Combining the Soup Ingredients:

Add diced green pepper beef broth frozen corn drained black and pinto beans tomato sauce Rotel tomatoes and green chilies into the pot. Stir gently to combine evenly.

Simmering the Soup:

Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover partially and let cook for 25 to 30 minutes. If you prefer a thinner soup add about one cup of water before simmering. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Finishing and Serving:

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese sour cream or avocado for extra creaminess.

This recipe’s green chilies are a personal favorite because they add just the right touch of heat without overwhelming the dish. One chilly winter, we gathered with friends for a casual dinner and this soup was the highlight everyone kept going back for seconds.

Storage Tips

Store leftover taco soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve the texture of the beans and vegetables. For longer storage freeze in portioned containers and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version swap ground turkey or chicken for beef The flavor will be milder but still delicious If you do not have Rotel tomatoes substitute with diced tomatoes plus a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian or a slightly different flavor profile Black beans and pinto beans can be replaced with kidney beans or chickpeas depending on preference

Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup with warm cornbread or tortilla chips for a textural contrast Top with shredded cheese cilantro diced avocado or a dollop of sour cream to add richness and extra flavor Pair with a simple green salad to balance the heartiness of the stew

This taco soup is easy to prepare and adaptable, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What type of beans are used in this dish?

Black beans and pinto beans are both included, providing texture and protein while complementing the bold flavors.

→ Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes, adjusting the amount of taco seasoning or green chilies allows you to control the heat to your preference.

→ Is it possible to make this dish thicker or thinner?

Adding water will thin the consistency, while simmering longer helps thicken the broth for a heartier texture.

→ What cooking method is recommended?

Use a large pot or Dutch oven to brown the beef and slowly simmer the soup, ensuring even flavor development.

→ What toppings work well with this dish?

Fresh toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or avocado enhance texture and flavor contrasts.