Hearty Taco Soup
This taco soup combines seasoned ground meat with fresh tomatoes, sweet corn, and beans, simmered in a flavorful broth infused with taco spices. It’s a comforting, one-pot dish with a rich, chunky texture, topped with melted cheese, cilantro, and sour cream for a vibrant finish. Perfect for cozy weeknights, it’s quick to prepare and endlessly adaptable.
Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Knife and chopping board
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or any cooking oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey or chicken
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 cup corn frozen or canned, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning store-bought or homemade
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
- 0.5 cup cilantro chopped, for garnish
- 0.5 cup sour cream for topping
Instructions
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes. The aroma should be warm and inviting, with the onions turning translucent and soft.
- Add the ground meat to the pot, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no pink remains, about 8 minutes. The meat should be crumbly and evenly cooked, with a rich aroma dispersing as it browns.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, along with the corn and drained black beans. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, mixing everything thoroughly so the spices coat the ingredients evenly. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The soup will thicken slightly and develop a fragrant, spicy aroma.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed—adding a pinch more taco seasoning or salt. The flavors should meld into a vibrant, spicy broth with hearty chunks of meat and vegetables.
- Serve the hot soup in bowls, topped with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped cilantro. The toppings add creamy, tangy, and fresh bursts that complement the savory soup beautifully.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lime or a dash of hot sauce. Feel free to customize with other toppings like chopped onions or jalapeños.