Easy Taco Soup

This Easy Taco Soup is a quick, one-pot wonder that captures all the bold flavors of tacos in a hearty, comforting bowl. Packed with ground beef or turkey, beans, corn, tomatoes, and taco seasoning, it simmers in minutes and tastes even better the next day. It’s budget-friendly, family-approved, and perfect for busy weeknights—serve with tortilla chips, cheese, and a dollop of sour cream for a fun, customizable dinner everyone loves.

Easy Taco Soup

Ingredients

  • For 6 to 8 servings, gather these simple items:
  • 500 grams lean ground beef or turkey
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (400 grams) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (400 grams) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (400 grams) corn kernels, drained
  • 2 cans (400 grams each) diced tomatoes with green chilies (or plain diced tomatoes)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade: 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, ½ tsp paprika, ½ tsp oregano, salt/pepper)
  • 4 cups low-sodium beef or chicken broth
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional for extra veggies)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream or plain yogurt, chopped fresh coriander, sliced green onions, crushed tortilla chips, avocado slices, lime wedges

Direction

  • Step 1: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef or turkey and cook 6–8 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat if needed.
  • Step 2: Add chopped onion, diced bell pepper (if using), and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté 4–5 minutes until vegetables soften.
  • Step 3: Stir in taco seasoning (or homemade mix) and cook 1 minute to toast the spices and release aroma.
  • Step 4: Add drained black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes with juice, and broth. Stir well to combine.
  • Step 5: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let flavors meld.
  • Step 6: Taste and adjust seasoning—more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lime for brightness. Serve hot in bowls with your favorite toppings.

Nutrients Information

Per serving (about 1½ cups soup without toppings, approximate values with lean turkey):

  • Calories: 280 to 320
  • Total Fat: 8 to 10 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 2 to 3 grams
  • Cholesterol: 60 to 80 milligrams
  • Sodium: 600 to 800 milligrams (lower with low-sodium beans/broth)
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32 to 38 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 10 to 12 grams
  • Sugars: 6 to 8 grams (natural from veggies/tomatoes)
  • Protein: 24 to 28 grams
  • High in lean protein from turkey, fiber from beans for digestion and fullness, vitamin C from bell peppers/tomatoes, and complex carbs from corn. A balanced, filling soup that supports heart health and energy.

Recipes Credit

Contributed by United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Extension Service