Why Make This Recipe

Taco soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the flavors of traditional tacos in a cozy soup format. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, chilly days, or whenever you’re craving something warm and satisfying. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup for you. With its delicious blend of ingredients, this soup is packed with flavor and nutrition. Making taco soup at home is not only easy but allows you to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.

How to Make Best Taco Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Ground beef
• 1 Avocado
• 1 15 oz can Black beans
• 1 bunch Cilantro
• 1 15 oz can Corn
• 1 4 oz can Green chilies
• 1 Jalapeno
• 1 15 oz can Kidney beans
• 1 Lime, wedges
• 1 medium Onion
• 1 15 oz can Tomatoes
• 1 10 oz can Tomatoes with green chilies
• 2 cups Beef broth
• 1 packet Ranch dressing mix
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 packet Taco seasoning
• Toppings (optional)
• 1 tbsp Olive oil
• 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Sour cream
• Tortilla chips or strips

Directions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and ground beef; cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft.
3. Drain any excess fat.
4. Stir in taco seasoning, ranch dressing mix, and beef broth.
5. Add black beans, kidney beans, corn, green chilies, tomatoes, and jalapenos.
6. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Serve hot, garnished with diced avocado, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips.

How to Serve Best Taco Soup

Serve the taco soup hot in bowls, and top each serving with diced avocado, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, shredded cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream. You can also add tortilla chips or strips on the side, which adds a nice crunch to every bite!

How to Store Best Taco Soup

If you have leftovers, store the taco soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup for longer storage. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Best Taco Soup

• For a spicier soup, you can add more jalapenos or include red pepper flakes.
• Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Experiment with different beans, like pinto beans or black-eyed peas, for variation.
• Fresh toppings like sour cream and cilantro can enhance the flavor and presentation.

Variation

You can switch up the proteins in this recipe by using shredded chicken or ground turkey instead of beef. Additionally, for a vegetarian version, you can omit the meat and add extra beans or some diced vegetables.

FAQs

1. Can I make taco soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Brown the beef and onion first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

2. Is taco soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free taco seasoning and broth, taco soup can be a gluten-free dish.

3. Can I use canned vegetables in the soup?
Absolutely! Canned vegetables make the preparation faster. Just be sure to drain and rinse beans to reduce excess sodium.