Are you craving for a hearty and flavorful Mexican soup that can easily warm you up on a cold day? Then look no further than this delicious taco soup recipe! Made with simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this soup is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that the whole family can enjoy.
Ingredients Needed to Make Taco Soup Recipe
Before we dive into the recipe itself, let's take a look at the ingredients that you will need to make this mouth-watering taco soup:
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz.) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz.) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz.) corn, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (10 oz.) diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz.) tomato sauce
- 1 packet (1 oz.) taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup water
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, crushed tortilla chips, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, etc.
With these ingredients ready, you're all set to start cooking!
For the Marinade: Taco Soup Recipe
There is no marinade needed for this recipe.
Kitchen Tools Needed for Taco Soup Recipe
Here are the basic kitchen tools that you'll need to make this taco soup recipe:
- A large pot or Dutch oven, preferably with a lid
- A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- A can opener
- A measuring cup
- A sharp knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables, if needed
With these tools in place, you're ready to start cooking this delicious soup!
How to Make Taco Soup Recipe
Now that you have all your ingredients and kitchen tools ready, let's start cooking this mouth-watering taco soup:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the kidney beans, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes and green chilies, tomato sauce, taco seasoning mix, and water to the pot, stirring to combine.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Optional: top each bowl of soup with shredded cheese, sour cream, crushed tortilla chips, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, or any other toppings of your choice.
That's it! Your delicious and hearty taco soup is now ready to serve. Enjoy!
How to Cook Taco Soup Recipe
The total cooking time for this taco soup recipe is about 30 minutes, including preparation and simmering. It can serve up to 6 people, depending on serving size and appetite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I substitute for ground beef in this recipe?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of ground beef, depending on your preference.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes if you prefer. Just make sure to chop them finely and adjust the amount of water accordingly.
Is it necessary to rinse the beans before adding them to the soup?
Yes, it's recommended to rinse the beans to remove any excess salt and to prevent the soup from becoming too starchy.
Can I freeze the leftover soup?
Yes, you can freeze the leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I add more vegetables to the soup?
Yes, you can add more vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the soup to make it more nutritious and flavorful.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of water?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer and more savory flavor.
How long can I store the cooked soup in the refrigerator?
You can store the cooked soup in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, in an airtight container.
Can I use homemade taco seasoning instead of the store-bought packet?
Yes, you can use homemade taco seasoning if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the amount of seasoning to your taste.
Can I use a slow cooker to make this soup?
Yes, you can use a slow cooker to make this soup. Just brown the ground beef first on a skillet, then transfer it to the slow cooker along with the rest of the ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, you can make this soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to serve. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Is this soup spicy?
This soup has a mild to medium level of spiciness, depending on the brand of diced tomatoes and green chilies and the amount of taco seasoning used. If you prefer a spicier soup, you can add more seasoning or hot sauce to taste.
Can I use ground chicken instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can use ground chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter and healthier version of this soup.
Can I use fresh corn instead of canned corn?
Yes, you can use fresh corn if it's in season. Just cut the kernels off the cob and adjust the amount of water accordingly.