The original taco soup recipe is an easy, versatile dish packed with the flavors of Mexican cuisine. It combines ingredients like beans, ground meat, corn, and tomatoes with classic taco seasonings to create a filling and flavorful soup. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner option, something to serve at a party, or a cozy meal on a chilly day, this soup will do the trick. This guide will walk you through how to make the original taco soup recipe, offering tips, variations, and ideas on how to serve it for maximum satisfaction.
Why the Original Taco Soup Recipe Should Be Your Go-To Dish
The original taco soup recipe has earned its spot as a staple in many homes because it’s both flavorful and easy to make. Its versatility allows you to customize the ingredients to suit your preferences. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or a crowd with diverse tastes, this soup offers something for everyone.
Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also a wholesome dish packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. By combining beans, meat, and vegetables, you create a meal that is as nourishing as it is delicious. Additionally, this recipe is ideal for meal prep because it can be made in large batches and frozen for future use. When reheated, the original taco soup recipe retains its rich, comforting flavors, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
Ingredients for the Perfect Original Taco Soup Recipe
To achieve the perfect original taco soup recipe, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Each component plays an essential role in developing the soup’s flavor and texture. Below is a breakdown of the basic ingredients that you’ll need for this dish:
Ground Beef or Turkey
Traditionally, the original taco soup recipe uses ground beef, which gives the soup a rich, savory flavor. However, if you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey is an excellent alternative. Both meats work well with the taco seasoning, which enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Beans: Black, Pinto, or Kidney
Beans are a critical component of the original taco soup recipe, adding both texture and nutrition. You can use black beans, pinto beans, kidney beans, or a combination of all three. Not only do beans provide an additional source of protein, but they also give the soup a hearty texture that balances the spiciness of the taco seasoning.
Corn for Sweetness and Texture
Corn adds a hint of sweetness and a slight crunch to the original taco soup recipe. You can use canned, frozen, or fresh corn, depending on what you have available. The corn helps balance the heat from the seasoning, providing a sweet contrast to the spiciness of the dish.
Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies
Canned diced tomatoes and green chilies are another essential element of the original taco soup recipe. The tomatoes give the soup a robust, tangy flavor, while the chilies add a bit of heat. If you’re not a fan of spicy foods, you can opt for mild diced tomatoes without chilies or adjust the amount of chili according to your taste preference.
Taco Seasoning for Bold, Authentic Flavor
Taco seasoning is what gives the original taco soup recipe its signature Mexican-inspired flavor. You can use a store-bought seasoning packet or create your own blend at home. A typical taco seasoning blend includes ingredients like chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and oregano. Check out this guide on how to make your own taco seasoning at home.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
- Ranch Seasoning Mix: Adds a tangy flavor to the soup and makes it creamier.
- Fresh Cilantro: For garnish and a burst of fresh flavor.
- Lime Juice: Squeeze lime juice over the soup just before serving to brighten the flavors.
Looking for more bean-centric recipes? Try this baked beans recipe for another delicious option.
How to Make the Original Taco Soup Recipe Step-by-Step
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to prepare the original taco soup recipe. This dish is incredibly easy to make, and you can prepare it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. Follow these steps for the perfect taco soup every time.
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Begin by browning your ground beef or turkey in a large pot over medium heat. As the meat cooks, break it up into smaller pieces with a spatula or wooden spoon. Once the meat is fully browned, drain off any excess fat to prevent the soup from becoming too greasy. This step forms the base of your original taco soup recipe, and browning the meat properly ensures a rich, flavorful foundation.
Step 2: Add the Beans, Corn, and Tomatoes
Once the meat is browned, it’s time to add the beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and green chilies to the pot. Stir these ingredients together with the meat, making sure everything is evenly distributed. These ingredients will create the bulk of the original taco soup recipe, and as they simmer together, the flavors will meld beautifully.
Step 3: Add Broth and Taco Seasoning
After combining the meat and vegetables, add the taco seasoning and broth to the pot. The broth helps to thin out the soup, while the taco seasoning gives it a spicy kick. Stir well to ensure the seasoning is evenly mixed throughout the soup. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This simmering process allows the flavors to fully develop, making the original taco soup recipe taste even better.
Step 4: Simmer and Serve
Once the soup has simmered for about 30-45 minutes, it’s ready to serve. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will deepen, so don’t rush this step. Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you want a spicier soup, you can add additional chili powder or hot sauce at this point.
Making the Original Taco Soup Recipe in a Slow Cooker
For those who prefer a more hands-off cooking method, the original taco soup recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Brown the Meat
As with the stovetop version, start by browning your ground meat in a skillet. This step is crucial for flavor development and should not be skipped. Once the meat is browned, transfer it to your slow cooker.
Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients
After transferring the browned meat to the slow cooker, add the beans, corn, diced tomatoes, green chilies, broth, and taco seasoning. Stir everything together to combine the ingredients evenly.
Step 3: Cook on Low for 6-8 Hours
Set the slow cooker to low and let the soup cook for 6-8 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop even further, resulting in a rich, hearty soup. Once the cooking time is up, give the soup a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
For more tips on making taco soup in a slow cooker, check out this guide.
Variations of the Original Taco Soup Recipe
One of the best things about the original taco soup recipe is how easily it can be customized to suit your preferences. Below are a few popular variations to try:
Chicken Taco Soup
If you prefer chicken over beef, you can easily adapt the original taco soup recipe to use shredded or diced chicken. This variation is lighter and just as flavorful. You can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook and shred chicken breasts before adding them to the soup.
For a complete guide to making chicken taco soup, check out this ultimate guide.
Vegetarian Taco Soup
For a meatless option, omit the meat altogether and add more beans and vegetables to the soup. You can also use plant-based meat substitutes like Beyond Meat or black bean crumbles to maintain the heartiness of the dish.
For a delicious vegetarian taco soup recipe, check out this recipe.
Low-Calorie Taco Soup
If you’re watching your calorie intake, there are several ways to lighten up the recipe. Use lean ground turkey instead of beef, opt for reduced-fat cheese, and swap sour cream for plain Greek yogurt. You can also reduce the amount of cheese and tortilla chips used as toppings to cut down on calories.
If you’re interested in a different kind of taco soup, explore the flavorful ingredients in birria taco soup.
Tips and Tricks for Enhancing Your Original Taco Soup Recipe
Control the Spice Level
One of the best things about the recipe is that it’s easy to adjust the spice level to suit your preferences. If you like things spicy, consider adding extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or even a diced jalapeño. On the other hand, if you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the amount of taco seasoning, or use mild varieties of diced tomatoes with green chilies.
Experiment with Beans
While the classic recipe typically includes black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans, don’t be afraid to experiment with other varieties. For example, adding white beans like cannellini beans or navy beans can add a new dimension to the soup’s texture and flavor. Additionally, using a variety of beans can make the soup even heartier.
Add Extra Veggies for a Nutrient Boost
If you want to make the recipe even more nutritious, feel free to add extra vegetables to the mix. Bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots all make excellent additions to the soup. Not only do these veggies increase the nutrient content, but they also add color and flavor to the dish.
For those following a low-carb or keto diet, you can omit the beans and substitute them with low-carb vegetables like cauliflower or green beans.
For a deeper dive into the varieties of beans you can use, check out this complete breakdown of 15-bean soup.
Serving Suggestions for the Original Taco Soup Recipe
One of the reasons the recipe is so popular is because it pairs well with a variety of toppings and side dishes. Here are some of the best ways to serve taco soup.
Classic Toppings for the Original Taco Soup Recipe
The right toppings can take your recipe to the next level. Here are some of the most popular toppings that you can add to your bowl of taco soup:
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend of cheeses melt beautifully into the soup.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: These add a creamy, tangy element to balance out the spiciness of the soup.
- Tortilla Chips or Strips: Add a bit of crunch by crumbling tortilla chips or using tortilla strips as a garnish. You can even use baked tortilla chips for a healthier option.
- Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices provide a rich texture and complement the spicy flavors in the original taco soup recipe.
- Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a mild onion flavor and a nice contrast to the richness of the soup.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a burst of herbaceous freshness and is a classic garnish for any Mexican-inspired dish.
- Jalapeños: If you love extra heat, top your soup with sliced fresh or pickled jalapeños.
For more topping inspiration, check out this taco soup toppings guide.
Side Dishes to Pair with the Original Taco Soup Recipe
While the recipe is a meal in itself, pairing it with the right side dish can create a more well-rounded dining experience. Here are some ideas for sides that complement taco soup perfectly:
- Cornbread: A sweet slice of cornbread is a classic pairing for taco soup. You can find a great cornbread recipe here.
- Mexican Rice: Serve the soup alongside some fluffy Mexican rice for a more filling meal. You can also add the rice directly into the soup for extra texture.
- Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a citrusy vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the rich, hearty flavors of the original taco soup recipe.
- Guacamole and Chips: Guacamole is another great side that complements taco soup. The creamy, tangy dip adds another layer of flavor to the meal.
Drink Pairings for the Original Taco Soup Recipe
The recipe pairs wonderfully with refreshing beverages that help balance the spices in the dish. Here are some drink pairing ideas:
- Margaritas: A classic margarita, whether frozen or on the rocks, adds a refreshing citrus note that complements the spice in the soup. Check out a classic margarita recipe here.
- Horchata: This sweet, cinnamon-flavored rice milk drink is a traditional Mexican beverage that pairs well with the original taco soup recipe.
- Iced Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, sweet iced tea or unsweetened black tea helps cut through the richness of the soup and provides a cooling effect.
If you’re a fan of bean-based soups, you’ll love this 15-bean soup recipe for another hearty meal option.
Storing and Reheating the Original Taco Soup Recipe
One of the best things about the recipe is that it stores and reheats beautifully. Whether you’ve made too much or are meal-prepping for the week, this soup keeps well and even improves in flavor as it sits.
How to Store the Original Taco Soup Recipe
To store the recipe, let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The soup may thicken as it cools, but you can simply add a splash of broth or water when reheating to restore its original consistency.
Freezing the Original Taco Soup Recipe
The original taco soup recipe also freezes exceptionally well. To freeze the soup, portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand as it freezes. Label the containers with the date, and store the soup in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to eat the soup, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
How to Reheat the Original Taco Soup Recipe
Reheating the recipe is simple. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave by transferring the soup to a microwave-safe bowl and heating it for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. For larger quantities, reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Conclusion: The Original Taco Soup Recipe Is a Must-Try Dish
The recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a comfort food that brings people together. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or a meal-prep session, this soup delivers on flavor, nutrition, and ease. From the savory, spiced broth to the hearty beans and tender meat, every bite is packed with the bold flavors of a classic taco.
With the option to customize the recipe with your favorite toppings and ingredients, the recipe is endlessly versatile. You can experiment with different proteins, vegetables, and seasonings to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Plus, the soup is easy to store and reheat, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or for feeding a crowd.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, the recipe is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a bowl of this delicious, comforting soup today!
For more taco soup inspiration, visit this recipe collection.