Taco Soup

Taco Soup delivers the iconic flavors of a classic taco-- combining rich ground beef with the best seasoning mix, crisp corn, a mix of beans, and smoky fire-roasted chilies. Serve this hearty and comforting soup with a scoop of sour cream, a handful of Cheddar, and plenty of chips on the side for dipping!

Ingredients

Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 large yellow onion, finely diced (1½ cups)

1 lb. ground beef lean (93/7)

2 teaspoons minced garlic

1 can (16 oz) chili (or pinto) beans, undrained (Note 1)

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed

1 can southwestern (or plain) corn, undrained

1 can mild diced green chiles, undrained (fire-roasted if possible)

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

2 cups chicken broth

Toppings: sour cream, Cheddar cheese, chips for dipping

Optional Toppings: green onions or cilantro, diced ripe avocado, lime, jalapeño

Seasonings (or use 1 Packet Taco Seasoning)

1 tablespoon ground chili powder

1 teaspoon each: ground cumin and paprika

½ teaspoon each: onion powder, garlic powder, and dried oregano

Fine sea salt and pepper

Instructions

ONION AND BEEF: In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil over medium-high. Add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3 mins. Push onions to the sides of the pot and increase heat to high. Add the ground beef to the center, crumbling it as it cooks. Cook until fully browned. If there's excess grease, drain it off.

SEASONINGS: Add garlic and seasonings plus salt and pepper to taste (I add ¾ tsp salt and ½ tsp pepper). Sauté the mixture, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

REMAINING INGREDIENTS: Add remaining soup ingredients except toppings. Mix well.

SIMMER: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer, uncovered, for 10-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. (See Note 2).

ENJOY: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your chosen toppings. Enjoy!

Notes

Note 1: Chili beans: These are canned beans in a seasoned chili sauce, enhancing the flavor of the soup without additional effort on your end! If you can't find chili beans, use ranch beans or drained and rinsed pinto beans instead.

Note 2: Consistency: Adjust Taco Soup's consistency by adding broth for a thinner soup, or using extra beans or simmering longer for a thicker version.