Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (500g) lean ground beef – Adds a rich, meaty base.
- 1 small onion, chopped – Provides a mild sweetness and enhances the flavor.
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a robust, aromatic flavor.
- 4 cups (946ml) beef or chicken broth or stock – Creates a savory, flavorful base for the soup.
- 1 (15 oz) (432g) can of corn, drained – Adds sweetness and texture.
- 1 (15 oz) (425g) can of black beans, drained and rinsed – Provides protein and a creamy texture.
- 1 (15 oz) (425g) can of chili beans in chili sauce – Adds spiciness and depth of flavor.
- 1 (28 oz) (793g) can of crushed tomatoes – Gives the soup its base and thickness.
- 1 (4 oz) (113g) can of chopped green chiles – Adds a mild heat and tangy flavor.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder – Essential for that classic taco flavor.
- 2 teaspoons cumin – Adds warmth and earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano, onion powder, and garlic powder – Enhances the flavor profile.
- Salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper to taste – Adjusts the seasoning to your preference.
Instructions
Stovetop Version:
- Brown the Meat and Onions: In a large Dutch oven or pot, cook the ground beef and chopped onions over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are softened.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine the Ingredients: Add the broth or stock, corn, black beans, chili beans, crushed tomatoes, chopped green chiles, chili powder, cumin, oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you have more time, you can simmer it longer to deepen the flavors.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or tortilla strips.
Slow Cooker Version:
- Prepare the Meat: Place the raw ground beef at the bottom of the crockpot and break it up into small chunks (or, if preferred, brown it in a pan beforehand).
- Add Ingredients: Pour in all the remaining ingredients, except for the toppings, and stir to combine.
- Cook: Cover with the lid and cook on high for 4-6 hours or low for 8-10 hours.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Notes
Serving and Presentation Tips
- Toppings: Enhance your Taco Soup with a variety of toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, sliced jalapeños, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or crispy tortilla strips.
- Side Dishes: Serve with a side of warm cornbread, a simple green salad, or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
- Presentation: Use colorful bowls to serve the soup and arrange the toppings in small dishes on the table to create an inviting, family-style meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes (stovetop) or 4-10 hours (slow cooker)
- Category: Dinner