A taco soup recipe is perfect if you’re craving something warm, hearty, and flavorful. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a meal that will impress guests, taco soup offers endless versatility. This dish is delicious and simple to make, with endless variations like chicken taco soup and crock pot versions for a convenient, hands-off approach.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make an easy taco soup recipe that can be customized to fit your tastes. Plus, we’ll show you how ranch dressing can elevate the original taco soup recipe into something truly special.
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What You’ll Need For This Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or substitute ground turkey or chicken)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or approx. 2.5 tbsp of taco seasoning (paid ad))
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix (paid ad)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or substitute vegetable broth)
- Salt and pepper (paid ad) to taste (requires a grinder (paid ad), but it’s the best pepper I’ve ever tasted!)
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, tortilla chips, avocado slices
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Original Taco Soup Recipe
- Cook the Meat
In a large pot or Dutch oven (paid ad), brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and return the beef to the pot. If you’re making a chicken taco soup recipe, swap out the ground beef for shredded or diced chicken. - Add Ingredients
Stir in the taco seasoning mix and ranch dressing mix, then add the black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Pour in the chicken broth, and give everything a good stir. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Simmer
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful your taco soup will become. - Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes. Popular options include shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, chopped cilantro, and crushed tortilla chips for added crunch. Avocado slices also make a delicious addition.
For another lighter, international twist, don’t miss our Zesty Greek Chicken Bake: The Perfect Mediterranean Diet Recipe—full of fresh and vibrant flavors!
Crock Pot Taco Soup Recipe
Try this taco soup crock pot (paid ad) recipe if you prefer a hands-off approach. It’s perfect for busy days when you want to set it and forget it.
- Brown the ground beef or prepare your shredded chicken as directed.
- Add the cooked meat to your crock pot, taco seasoning, ranch dressing mix, beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and broth.
- Stir well and set the crock pot to low. Let it cook for 6-8 hours.
- Serve with your favorite toppings, and enjoy the ease of this taco soup crock pot recipe.
Taco Soup Recipe with Ranch Dressing – A Flavorful Twist
You may wonder why ranch dressing mix is included in this recipe. The answer is simple—it adds a creamy, tangy depth of flavor that makes the soup irresistible.
While this might not be a traditional taco soup ingredient, it transforms the dish into something extraordinary. In fact, some argue that this is the best recipe for taco soup because the ranch elevates the overall taste.
Easy Taco Soup Recipe Tips:
- Make It a Chicken Taco Soup Recipe
If you’re looking for a healthier or lighter option, you can easily make this an easy chicken taco soup recipe by substituting shredded rotisserie chicken for ground beef. The flavors will still be rich but with a leaner protein base. - Customize the Heat
For those who like their soup spicy, consider adding more diced tomatoes with green chilies or tossing in some jalapeño slices. Conversely, you can tone down the spice by using mild taco seasoning. - Freeze for Later
Taco soup freezes beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Cool the soup completely, portion it into airtight containers, and freeze for up to three months.
The Perfect Taco Soup Recipe for Any Occasion
Whether you try the original taco soup recipe or experiment with different proteins like chicken, this dish will become a favorite in your household. The possibilities are endless, with options like a taco soup crock pot recipe and the addition of ranch dressing for extra zest.
Follow this guide to make the best taco soup recipe, and don’t forget to add your personal touch with toppings and heat levels.
Now, grab your ingredients and get cooking—you’ll be enjoying a steaming bowl of taco soup in no time!
For another hearty and comforting dish, be sure to try The Best Goulash Recipe Ever!