Easy Taco Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this soup brings all the comforting flavors of tacos into one easy bowl. It’s ready in just 30 minutes on the stovetop, but if I want to let it simmer all day, the slow cooker works perfectly too. The combination of beans, ground beef, tomatoes, and spices makes it hearty enough to serve as a main meal. Plus, it’s super customizable with toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, or crunchy tortilla chips.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound lean ground beef

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 4-5 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups beef or chicken broth or stock

• 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained

• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 (15 oz) can chili beans in chili sauce

• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 (4 oz) can chopped green chiles

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 2 teaspoons cumin

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper to taste

Directions

Stovetop Version:
I start by browning the ground beef and onions in a large pot until the meat is fully cooked. Then I add the minced garlic and cook for about 2 more minutes. Once the garlic is fragrant, I stir in the rest of the ingredients, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. If I want even deeper flavor, I’ll let it simmer longer and give it an occasional stir.

Slow Cooker Version:
I place raw ground beef at the bottom of the slow cooker and break it into small chunks. (If I prefer a richer taste, I’ll brown the meat first.) Then I add all the remaining ingredients, stir it all together, cover it, and let it cook on high for 4-6 hours or on low for 8-10 hours. Once it’s done, I serve it hot with my favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings, each around 2 cups. On the stovetop, it takes 30 minutes total—10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. If I use the slow cooker, it takes 4-6 hours on high or 8-10 hours on low.

Variations

• Protein: I sometimes switch the ground beef for ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken for a lighter take.

• Beans: Pinto beans or kidney beans work great if I’m out of black beans or chili beans.

• Spice level: I adjust the cayenne pepper or add chopped jalapeños if I want extra heat.

• Vegetarian option: I leave out the meat and double up on the beans or add lentils for a plant-based version.

• Toppings: I like to change things up with sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, or even a squeeze of lime juice.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I just warm it in a pot on the stove over medium heat or microwave individual portions until heated through. For freezing, I let the soup cool completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When I’m ready to eat, I thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as usual.

FAQs

How can I make this soup spicier?

I like adding more cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or even a dash of hot sauce to boost the heat.

Can I freeze taco soup with the beans and corn?

Yes, I freeze it with all the ingredients included. The beans and corn hold up well and taste great after reheating.

Do I need to drain the chili beans?

No, I add the chili beans with their sauce. It adds a lot of flavor to the soup.

What toppings go best with taco soup?

I usually go for shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, tortilla chips, avocado, or chopped cilantro.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. I double the ingredients and use a larger pot or a big slow cooker if I’m feeding a crowd or stocking the freezer.

Conclusion

This Easy Taco Soup is one of my favorite go-to recipes when I want something filling, flavorful, and fast. Whether I make it on the stovetop or let it simmer all day in the slow cooker, it always turns out delicious. I love how flexible it is—from toppings to proteins to spice level—making it perfect for just about any taste or occasion.