Taco soup is the ultimate comfort food—quick to make, hearty, and packed with bold, irresistible flavors. Whether you’re craving a classic beef taco soup or a creative twist like chicken or vegetarian options, these recipes are sure to satisfy. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd, taco soup is versatile, customizable, and always a hit. Here are 5 irresistible taco soup recipes to try today!
Table of Contents
1. Classic Beef Taco Soup

Why You’ll Love It
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, combining the familiar flavors of tacos with the heartiness of soup. It’s quick to make and perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 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 (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup salsa
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips
Steps

- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until softened.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, beans, corn, tomatoes, broth, and salsa.
- Simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
2. Chicken Taco Soup
Why You’ll Love It
This lighter version uses shredded chicken for a protein-packed, flavorful soup that’s perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup salsa
- Optional toppings: cilantro, lime wedges, tortilla strips
Steps
- In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
- Add the taco seasoning, chicken, beans, corn, tomatoes, broth, and salsa.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Serve with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and tortilla strips.
3. Vegetarian Taco Soup
Why You’ll Love It
Packed with beans, veggies, and bold flavors, this meatless version is hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup salsa
- Optional toppings: avocado, shredded cheese, tortilla chips
Steps
- In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini until tender.
- Add the taco seasoning, beans, corn, tomatoes, broth, and salsa.
- Simmer for 20 minutes.
- Top with avocado, cheese, and tortilla chips.
4. Slow Cooker Taco Soup
Why You’ll Love It
Set it and forget it! This hands-off recipe is perfect for busy days.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 cup salsa
- Optional toppings: sour cream, green onions, shredded cheese
Steps
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
- Transfer the beef to a slow cooker. Add the onion, garlic, taco seasoning, beans, corn, tomatoes, broth, and salsa.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve with your favorite toppings.
5. Creamy Taco Soup
Why You’ll Love It
This rich and creamy version adds a decadent twist to classic taco soup.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup heavy cream or cream cheese
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, jalapeños, tortilla chips
Steps
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat.
- Add the onion and garlic. Cook until softened.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, beans, corn, tomatoes, broth, and salsa.
- Simmer for 15 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream or cream cheese until smooth.
- Serve with shredded cheese, jalapeños, and tortilla chips.
Tips and Tricks

- Customize Your Toppings: Let everyone personalize their bowl with toppings like avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, or tortilla chips.
- Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or extra chili powder for a kick.
- Use Leftovers: This soup is a great way to use up leftover chicken, beef, or veggies.
- Freeze for Later: Taco soup freezes well. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
How to Serve
- With Cornbread: Serve alongside warm cornbread for a comforting meal.
- Over Rice: Spoon the soup over cooked rice for an extra-hearty dish.
- As a Dip: Use tortilla chips to scoop up the soup for a fun appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the soup up to 2 days in advance. Store in the fridge and reheat before serving.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes! Use 2 cups of diced fresh tomatoes and add a bit more broth if needed.
2. Can I make this soup in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Sauté the meat and veggies, then pressure cook on high for 10 minutes.
3. Is taco soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your taco seasoning and broth are gluten-free.
4. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative.
5. How can I make it spicier?
Add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños.
Conclusion
Taco soup is a quick, hearty, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer classic beef, creamy chicken, or a vegetarian version, these 5 irresistible recipes are sure to become family favorites. Easy to make, customizable, and freezer-friendly, taco soup is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, comforting flavors. So grab your ingredients, pick a recipe, and enjoy a bowl of delicious taco soup tonight!