Classic Taco Soup with Beef

Name: Classic Taco Soup with Beef
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 2 cups beef broth; 2 tbsp taco seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Sour cream; Shredded cheese; Chopped cilantro; Avocado slices; Crushed tortilla chips

Highlighted under: International Dish Inspirations

I absolutely love making this Classic Taco Soup with Beef on chilly evenings. It fills the house with an irresistible aroma and comes together in under 30 minutes. The combination of spices brings depth to the beef and beans, while the toppings allow everyone to customize their dish just the way they like it. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it'll quickly become a favorite in your household, just like it has in mine!

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-02-01T14:50:28.837Z

This Classic Taco Soup with Beef has become my go-to dish for quick meals. The way I seasoned the ground beef with taco spices adds incredible flavor without needing hours of preparation. I also discovered that adding a splash of lime juice at the end really brightens the soup!

What I love most about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily tailor it to your taste – add more vegetables, switch to a different protein, or load up on your favorite toppings. Every time I make it, there's always a little variation, making it feel new and exciting!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A hearty and satisfying meal in just 30 minutes
Flexible recipe to make it your own with toppings
Packed with savory flavors that warm the soul

The Importance of Seasoning

Seasoning is a pivotal aspect of this Classic Taco Soup with Beef. The taco seasoning not only amplifies the flavors of the beef and beans, but it also adds warmth and depth to the dish. For an extra boost, consider adding a pinch of cumin or chili powder to enhance the smokiness and earthiness. If you find the flavor is not quite balanced, a squeeze of lime juice right before serving can brighten everything up beautifully.

Be mindful of the salt—since beef broth can vary in sodium content, it's wise to taste as you go. If you're watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium beef broth and adjust the added salt accordingly. This flexibility allows you to customize the seasoning to your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Perfecting Your Texture

The texture of your taco soup can elevate it from good to great. One tip is to make sure to properly brown the ground beef until it’s well-carved with rich brown bits on the bottom of the pot. This Maillard reaction contributes to a more complex flavor. Once the beef is browned, don't forget to scrape those bits from the bottom when adding the vegetables to incorporate that extra flavor into the soup.

For those who enjoy a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans in the pot with a fork or potato masher after they've simmered. This not only thickens the soup but also adds creaminess without needing additional dairy, making it a great option for a heartier meal. Adjust the broth quantity if needed, depending on the desired thickness.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
2 cups beef broth
2 tbsp taco seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings

Sour cream
Shredded cheese
Chopped cilantro
Avocado slices
Crushed tortilla chips

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.

Add Ingredients

Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, taco seasoning, and season with salt and pepper.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, cheese, cilantro, avocado, and crushed tortilla chips.

Pro Tips

For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef for lentils or crumbled tofu and use vegetable broth.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This taco soup is an excellent candidate for meal prep. To make it ahead of time, simply follow the recipe as instructed, allow it to cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it, reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, making sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

If you want to make a larger batch for freezing, extend the simmering time to meld the flavors even better. Once cooled, you can portion it out into individual servings and freeze for up to three months. For reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and warm it slowly on the stovetop for the best flavor and texture.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to enjoy your taco soup in various ways! If you’re in the mood for a spicier version, consider swapping in spicy diced tomatoes with green chilies or adding fresh jalapeños during cooking. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use plain diced tomatoes and reduce the taco seasoning slightly.

Vegetarians can easily adapt this dish by replacing the ground beef with a meat alternative, lentils, or even quinoa for a protein-packed option. Additionally, if you want to swap out the beans, kidney beans or pinto beans can work well here, offering slight variations in flavor and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze taco soup?

Absolutely. Freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to three months.

→ What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a healthier option.

→ Is this soup spicy?

The spice level can vary depending on the brand of taco seasoning you use. Adjust it according to your preference.