Why You’ll Love this Beef Taco Soup Recipe
When you take your first spoonful of this Beef Taco Soup, you’ll immediately understand why it’s a favorite in my kitchen. The rich, savory flavors burst with every bite, warming you from the inside out.
It’s hearty yet comforting, perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings. I love how easily it comes together, allowing me to spend more time with family and friends instead of slaving over the stove.
Plus, the versatility means I can customize it to suit my taste, making each pot uniquely mine. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked, just like I am!
Ingredients of Beef Taco Soup
When it comes to whipping up a delicious, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, Beef Taco Soup is a go-to for me. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible. You get the savory ground beef, the sweetness from the corn, the kick from the chili beans, and a medley of spices that work together like a culinary symphony.
Plus, it’s so easy to make! You just gather the ingredients, throw them in a pot, and let the magic happen. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to get started on this comforting dish.
Here’s what you’ll need for the Beef Taco Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup diced onion
- 4 cups chicken broth or beef broth
- 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, undrained
- 1 (16 ounce) can chili beans, undrained
- 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup masa harina
- 3/4 cup water
Now, before you start tossing things into the pot, let’s talk about a few key ingredients. The ground beef is the star of the show, so go for a lean option to keep things from getting too greasy. You can even swap it out for ground turkey if you’re feeling adventurous (or just trying to be a little healthier).
The spices are what really take this soup to the next level, so don’t skimp on those! And if you want to really elevate the dish, consider topping it with fresh cilantro or maybe some avocado slices. Trust me, it makes all the difference.
And hey, if you don’t have masa harina on hand, you can skip it or use cornmeal as a substitute—although it won’t quite give you that same thickening power. So gather your ingredients, and let’s make some magic happen!
How to Make Beef Taco Soup
Making Beef Taco Soup is as easy as pie—well, maybe easier, depending on your pie skills. First, you’ll want to grab 1 lb of ground beef and 1 cup of diced onion. In a large pot or stockpot, sauté those together over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onions are tender, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. You might even want to sing a little tune while you wait; it makes the cooking process feel more magical.
Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat—because nobody wants a greasy soup, right?
Now comes the fun part: combining everything! Toss the browned beef and onions into your stockpot along with 4 cups of chicken or beef broth, 1 (14 ounce) can of diced tomatoes, 1 (15 ounce) can of corn, 1 (15 ounce) can of black beans (undrained, don’t drain those beauties), 1 (16 ounce) can of chili beans (also undrained, because flavor), and 1 (4 ounce) can of diced green chilies.
Sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon of cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir it all together, and let it simmer for about thirty minutes. This is when the magic happens, as the flavors blend together to create a warm hug in a bowl. If you could bottle that aroma, you’d have a bestseller.
Once your soup has simmered to perfection, it’s time to thicken things up a bit. In a separate bowl, mix 1/4 cup of masa harina with 3/4 cup of water until it forms a smooth paste—this is your secret weapon for that perfect texture. Gradually stir the masa paste into the soup, cooking and stirring until it thickens slightly.
Now, here’s where you can get a little creative: grab some crushed taco chips and place a handful in each serving bowl. Ladle the soup over the chips and finish it off with a sprinkle of shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream. Voilà! You’ve just made a delightful Beef Taco Soup that’s sure to impress—it’s like a party in a bowl, and everyone’s invited.
Beef Taco Soup Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up with your Beef Taco Soup, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate.
You can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you want a vegetarian twist, try using lentils or black beans in place of meat.
For added flavor, consider adding fresh jalapeños or bell peppers. You can also experiment with different beans, like pinto or kidney beans.
If you’re out of masa harina, cornstarch can thicken the soup just as well.
Get creative and make it your own!
What to Serve with Beef Taco Soup
While Beef Taco Soup is a hearty dish on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal to the next level.
I love serving it alongside crispy tortilla chips or warm cornbread to soak up the delicious broth. A simple side salad with avocado and lime dressing adds a revitalizing touch, too.
If you’re in the mood for something extra, guacamole or a platter of fresh salsa can really enhance the flavors.
Don’t forget some shredded cheese and sour cream on the side for an added creamy delight! Enjoy mixing and matching to find your perfect pairing!
Additional Tips & Notes
To enhance your Beef Taco Soup experience, consider adjusting the seasoning to match your taste preferences. If you like it spicy, add a dash of cayenne or some chopped jalapeños.
For a richer flavor, try using beef broth instead of chicken broth. I also love throwing in some fresh cilantro just before serving for a burst of freshness.
Don’t forget to experiment with toppings, too! Avocado slices, diced green onions, or even a squeeze of lime can elevate your soup.
Finally, this soup freezes well, so make a big batch and enjoy it later!