Texas Taco Soup Recipe

Growing up, my grandmother always said a good bowl of soup could cure anything. While I can’t vouch for its medicinal properties, I can definitely say that a steaming bowl of Texas Taco Soup is pure comfort food. This Texas Taco Soup Recipe – A Hearty and Flavorful Southwestern Delight is a family favorite, passed down and tweaked over the years. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for chilly evenings or casual get-togethers. Just like Grandma used to make, this recipe brings everyone together around the table for a delicious and satisfying meal. We love customizing our bowls with all sorts of toppings, making every bite an adventure! It’s more than just soup; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients and shared moments.

About This Texas Taco Soup Recipe

This Texas Taco Soup recipe is all about comfort and flavor. It’s hearty and satisfying, packed with ground beef, beans, and corn, all simmered in a rich and savory broth. What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. We use fresh, readily available ingredients and easy-to-follow techniques, so even beginner cooks can achieve delicious results. No complicated steps or fancy equipment required—just a pot, a few basic ingredients, and a little love. It’s a perfect example of how simple, wholesome food can be incredibly flavorful. My grandmother always believed in letting the natural flavors of ingredients shine, and this recipe embodies that philosophy. You’ll find yourself going back for seconds, and maybe even thirds!

For another delicious and comforting recipe, try our Ultimate Breakfast Casserole. It’s a perfect way to start your day!

Why This Texas Taco Soup is Special

This Texas Taco Soup stands out because of my secret ingredient: a homemade taco seasoning blend. It’s a mix of classic spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, but with a little something extra that gives it a depth of flavor you won’t find in store-bought packets. This special blend, combined with the slow simmering of the soup, allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a truly unforgettable taste experience. We also use fire-roasted diced tomatoes to add a smoky sweetness to the broth, enhancing the overall Southwestern flavor profile.

What Makes Texas Taco Soup “Texan”?

While the exact origins of Texas Taco Soup are debatable, its roots are firmly planted in Texan cuisine. The generous use of beef, a staple in Texas cooking, is a key element. The bold flavors of chili peppers and cumin, common in Tex-Mex dishes, also contribute to its Texan identity. This soup embodies the hearty and flavorful nature of Texan food, perfect for satisfying big appetites and warming up on cool nights. It’s a taste of the Lone Star State in every bowl. It wouldn’t be surprising to find variations of this soup simmering in chuck wagons across the vast Texan landscape generations ago, fueling cowboys and settlers alike.

Ingredients

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• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning (recipe below)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Homemade Taco Seasoning:

• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For Serving:

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream
• Chopped avocado
• Fresh cilantro
• Tortilla chips
• Lime wedges

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Ingredient Notes

For the best flavor, use a lean ground beef with a low fat content, like 90/10. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer. Feel free to experiment with different types of beans; black beans or even lentils would be a great addition. Using fire-roasted diced tomatoes adds a smoky depth to the soup, but regular diced tomatoes will work as well. For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with 2 cups of cooked lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. Ensure all canned goods are BPA-free if possible. If you have a gluten intolerance, double-check that your beef broth is certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the taco seasoning to control the spice level. Freshly squeezed lime juice enhances the flavors of the soup beautifully. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings!

Instructions

Browning the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain off any excess grease. Browning the beef properly is crucial for developing a rich, savory flavor in the soup. Don’t rush this step; allow the beef to develop a nice crust for maximum flavor impact.

Building the Flavor Base

Add the chopped onion to the pot with the browned beef and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. This step, called sautéing, builds a foundation of flavor that will infuse the entire soup. The combination of cooked onions and garlic creates a delicious aromatic base for the other ingredients.

If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like our Crispy Fried Cornbread Recipe, a perfect side dish for this hearty soup.

Simmering the Soup

Add the fire-roasted diced tomatoes (undrained), kidney beans, pinto beans, corn, beef broth, and homemade taco seasoning to the pot. Stir well to combine. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour for a deeper flavor. The longer the soup simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. For a thicker soup, simmer uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

Serving Suggestions

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings. We recommend shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro. Crispy tortilla chips are a must for scooping up every last drop! For a heartier meal, serve the soup over cooked rice or with a side of warm cornbread. Get creative with your toppings! Chopped jalapenos, sliced black olives, or a squeeze of lime juice can add extra zest.

For a fun twist on a classic dessert, check out our Mini Cinnamon Rolls Recipe.

Tips and Variations

For the best results, use quality ingredients and don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors. If you find the soup too thick, add more broth until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, simmer it uncovered for longer to reduce the liquid. Taste the soup throughout the cooking process and adjust seasonings as needed. Remember, cooking is about having fun and making a recipe your own!

Spice Level Adjustments

This recipe uses a moderate amount of spice, but you can easily adjust it to your preference. For a milder soup, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the homemade taco seasoning or omit it altogether. If you like it extra spicy, add a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper along with the onions and garlic, or use a spicier chili powder. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to individual bowls for customized heat. Remember to start with a small amount and gradually increase until you achieve your desired spice level.

Slow Cooker Instructions

To make this soup in a slow cooker, brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic as directed in the original recipe. Then, transfer everything to your slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients, except for the toppings, and stir well. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The soup is ready when the flavors have melded and the vegetables are tender. Top with your favorite toppings before serving.

Looking for other Mexican inspired dishes? Check out these amazing recipes from La Crema: Chorizo and Black Bean Tacos and Grilled Skirt Steak Fajitas.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of dry lentils, rinsed, or 1 (14-ounce) package of vegetarian crumbles. For a vegan version, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and be sure to use a vegan meat substitute if desired. You can also add more vegetables like diced zucchini, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes. Make sure to check all ingredient labels to ensure they are vegan-friendly. Nutritional yeast can be sprinkled on top for a cheesy flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Original taco soup recipe

Pinpointing the “original” taco soup recipe is like trying to find the origin of chili—it’s a dish with a rich history and countless variations. Taco soup likely evolved over time, influenced by regional preferences and family traditions. What we know is that it’s a beloved comfort food, reflecting the ingenuity of cooks using readily available ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. This recipe aims to capture the essence of classic taco soup while incorporating fresh, homemade elements.

7 can taco soup with ranch dressing mix

The 7-can taco soup, often made with a packet of ranch dressing mix, is a popular variation known for its creamy texture and tangy flavor. It relies heavily on canned ingredients for convenience. While this version offers a different flavor profile, our recipe emphasizes fresh ingredients and a homemade spice blend for a more authentic and flavorful experience. The ranch dressing mix adds a creamy, slightly tangy element that some find appealing.

Best texas taco soup recipe a hearty and flavorful southwestern delight

This Texas Taco Soup recipe earns the title of “best” because of its commitment to fresh ingredients and bold, authentic flavors. The homemade taco seasoning and fire-roasted tomatoes elevate this soup beyond the ordinary, creating a truly unforgettable Southwestern delight. Every spoonful is bursting with flavor.

Simple texas taco soup recipe a hearty and flavorful southwestern delight

This recipe proves that delicious doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can create a hearty and flavorful Texas Taco Soup that will impress your family and friends. It’s a weeknight-friendly meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for convenience.

Pioneer Woman taco soup recipe

The Pioneer Woman’s taco soup is another popular variation, often featuring ground beef, beans, and corn in a tomato-based broth. While similar in concept, our recipe distinguishes itself with the homemade taco seasoning and emphasis on fresh ingredients. You can find her recipe on her website, thepioneerwoman.com.

Enjoy Your Texas Taco Soup!

This Texas Taco Soup recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to gather around the table with loved ones and create lasting memories. With its hearty flavors, fresh ingredients, and easy preparation, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. From cozy weeknight dinners to festive gatherings, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Just like my grandmother’s cooking brought our family together, I hope this recipe does the same for you. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family and leave a comment below letting me know how you enjoyed it! What are your favorite taco soup toppings?

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