Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Look no further! Taco soup is a quick, easy, and flavorful solution for busy nights. With its rich flavors and versatility, it’s no wonder why taco soup has become a staple in many households. And with so many variations to choose from, you can mix things up without having to start from scratch.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 different flavor-packed recipes that are perfect for busy nights. From classic beef to vegetarian options, and even some spicy and creamy variations, there’s something for everyone. So grab your spoon and let’s dive in!
Classic Beef Taco Soup
This hearty soup is a twist on traditional tacos, packed with flavor and comfort. Perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, and crushed tortilla chips for toppings
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with your choice of optional ingredients.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Add the chicken, diced tomatoes with green chilies, red kidney beans, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to a slow cooker.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and water.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Vegetarian Black Bean Taco Soup
This hearty soup is a delicious twist on traditional taco flavors, packed with fiber-rich black beans and nutritious vegetables. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch, this recipe is easy to make and customize to your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, cilantro, avocado, or sour cream for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little water until tender.
2. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, topped with your favorite optional ingredients.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Creamy Corn and Chicken Taco Soup
This hearty soup is a twist on traditional taco soup, with the added creaminess of corn and chicken. It’s perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the corn, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve hot, topped with your choice of optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Ground Turkey Taco Soup
Warm up with a flavorful and spicy twist on traditional taco soup! This recipe combines the comfort of ground turkey with the bold flavors of Mexico, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Instant Pot Taco Soup with Quinoa
This recipe is a twist on traditional taco soup, adding the nutritious and filling grain quinoa to make it a satisfying meal. With its rich flavors and tender texture, this Instant Pot dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the quinoa, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes to the pot.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Taco Soup with Rotel
Warm up on a chilly day with this creamy and flavorful soup that combines the comfort of cheese with the spice of taco seasoning. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crushed tortilla chips, sour cream, and diced avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
3. Add the garlic, taco seasoning, and chicken broth. Stir well.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Stir in the shredded cheese and heavy cream until melted.
6. Serve hot, garnished with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zesty Lime and Shrimp Taco Soup
This refreshing soup combines the flavors of Mexico with the brightness of lime, perfect for a light and satisfying meal. With succulent shrimp, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty broth, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, cilantro, and tortilla chips for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add bell pepper and cook an additional 2 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, and lime juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until shrimp are cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with jalapeños, cilantro, and tortilla chips if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Pumpkin and Black Bean Taco Soup
Warm up with this deliciously comforting soup that combines the flavors of pumpkin, black beans, and taco seasonings. Perfect for a chilly fall or winter day.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium pumpkin, peeled and cubed
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add pumpkin, black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, chili powder, and paprika.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pumpkin is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Taco Soup with Rice
This hearty soup is a twist on traditional tacos, where all the flavors and textures come together in one pot. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, rice, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
White Bean and Chicken Taco Soup
This hearty soup combines the comfort of chicken, beans, and vegetables with a hint of taco flair. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in cumin, chili powder, beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and water.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Sweet Potato and Chorizo Taco Soup
This hearty soup combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the bold flavor of chorizo, perfect for a comforting meal. With its creamy texture and vibrant color, it’s sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 pound chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, crushed tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook chorizo sausage over medium-high heat until browned.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add sweet potatoes, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Sweet Potato and Chorizo Taco Soup!
Low-Carb Keto Taco Soup
This hearty, flavorful soup is a twist on traditional taco recipes, adapted for a low-carb keto diet. With its rich beef broth and abundance of spices, it’s the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
– Chopped cilantro or scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
5. Stir in softened cream cheese until melted.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chipotle Ranch Taco Soup
This hearty soup combines the flavors of chipotle peppers, creamy ranch dressing, and tender ground beef for a delicious twist on traditional taco soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 2 tbsp ranch dressing
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced tomatoes, crushed tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, chipotle peppers, and cumin to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, ranch dressing, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings of your choice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Nacho Taco Soup
Warm up with a deliciously cheesy soup that combines the flavors of tacos and nachos! This hearty recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
– 6-8 corn tortillas, torn into pieces
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, shredded lettuce, diced avocado
Instructions:
1. Brown ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, black beans, chicken broth, and torn tortillas; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in shredded cheese and half-and-half or heavy cream until melted and smooth.
7. Serve hot, topped with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado and Corn Taco Soup
This creamy and flavorful soup is perfect for a warm weather meal or as a healthy snack. With the addition of avocado, it’s a nutritious twist on traditional taco soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, or crushed tortilla chips for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and red bell pepper over medium heat until tender.
2. Add black beans, corn kernels, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let soup cook for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
5. Stir in diced avocado just before serving.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Taco Soup
Get ready to warm up with this creative twist on traditional taco soup! This recipe combines the rich flavors of BBQ pulled pork with the vibrant spices of Mexico, all in a hearty and comforting bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz tortillas, cut into strips
– Shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, brown the pork shoulder over medium-high heat. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir well.
5. Return pork shoulder to the pot and simmer for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
6. Shred the pork with two forks.
7. Cook tortilla strips according to package instructions.
8. Serve soup hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro (if desired).
Cooking Time: 3 hours
Green Chile and Pinto Bean Taco Soup
This hearty soup combines the bold flavors of green chile peppers with creamy pinto beans, making for a perfect comfort food. Perfect for a chilly day or as a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup roasted green chile peppers, diced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz canned tomato sauce
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced tomatoes for toppings
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine soaked pinto beans, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, green chile peppers, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until beans are tender.
3. Stir in tomato sauce and continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, topped with desired ingredients (shredded cheese, sour cream, diced tomatoes).
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Summary
Looking for a delicious and quick dinner solution? Look no further! This collection of 18 flavorful taco soup recipes is perfect for busy nights. From classic beef to vegetarian options, and even keto-friendly choices, there’s something for everyone. With ingredients like ground turkey, black beans, and chorizo, these soups are packed with flavor. Plus, many can be made in under 30 minutes or cooked in a slow cooker for a convenient meal. Try one of these tasty taco soup recipes tonight!