Easy One-Pot Taco Soup: The Ultimate Weeknight Family Dinner Recipe
There’s truly nothing more comforting and convenient than a steaming pot of taco soup simmering on your stove, especially when weeknights get hectic. This One-Pot Taco Soup brings together all your favorite Mexican-inspired flavors into one hearty bowl, featuring seasoned ground beef, tender beans, sweet corn, and rich tomatoes. It’s a go-to family meal not only because it’s incredibly flavorful and satisfying but also because everyone gets to customize their own serving with a delightful array of toppings. The best part? This entire meal comes together in just over 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings when you need a delicious dinner without the fuss.
If you’re looking for more quick and tasty ground beef ideas, you’ve got to try my Queso Chili or Simple Ground Beef Tacos – they’re both fantastic ways to enjoy savory beef dishes!
This One-Pot Taco Soup has earned its spot as one of my absolute favorite ground beef dinners. It’s ideal for those evenings when you crave something substantial yet straightforward to prepare. Loaded with robust black beans, sweet kernels of corn, juicy diced tomatoes, and perfectly balanced taco seasoning, it delivers that bold, irresistible flavor profile that everyone adores. The magic lies in its “one-pot” nature – everything cooks in a single pot, drastically cutting down on prep time and, more importantly, minimizing cleanup. This makes it an absolute winner for frantic weeknights or efficient meal prep sessions on the weekend.
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Why This One-Pot Taco Soup Will Be Your New Favorite
More Reasons to Love This Recipe:
This recipe is an absolute dream for those moments when you’re craving the vibrant flavors of tacos but also desire the warmth and comfort of a hearty soup. It’s substantial enough to serve as a complete meal on its own, yet perfectly balanced so you can load up on all your beloved toppings without feeling overly heavy. Imagine a taco night without the messy shells or individual assembly – that’s the beauty of this soup!
- Quick & Convenient: With a total cook time of just 35 minutes, this soup is perfect for even the busiest schedules. Most of that time is hands-off simmering.
- Minimal Cleanup: As the name suggests, everything cooks in one pot, drastically reducing the amount of washing up afterwards.
- Family-Friendly & Customizable: Every member of the family can personalize their bowl. My kids adore piling on shredded cheese and crispy tortilla strips, while I prefer a healthier touch with fresh avocado and a squeeze of zesty lime juice. The possibilities are endless!
- Excellent for Meal Prep: This soup reheats wonderfully, often tasting even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. You can easily double the batch and freeze portions for future quick meals.
- Versatile & Budget-Friendly: Made with common pantry staples, it’s a cost-effective meal that can be easily adapted to whatever ingredients you have on hand.
Recipe At A Glance:
⏰ Total Time: 35 minutes
🍂 Perfect For: Cozy weeknight dinners, efficient meal prep, or chilly weather days
🛒 Key Ingredients: Ground beef, taco seasoning, corn, black beans, diced tomatoes
🍽️ Servings: 5
🥄 Skill Level: Easy – perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned pros alike
🧊 Storage: Stores well for up to 4 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer
Looking for more simple and satisfying meals? Give my Taco Skillet or One Pot Macaroni Lasagna a try next!
Ingredient Spotlight: What You’ll Need for One Pot Taco Soup
This One-Pot Taco Soup relies on a simple yet powerful combination of ingredients to deliver its incredible flavor and satisfying texture. Here’s a closer look at the stars of this dish:
- Ground Beef: The foundation of this hearty soup, ground beef provides a rich, savory base. I recommend using lean ground beef to avoid excessive grease, but any ground beef works. You’ll drain any excess fat after browning for a cleaner soup.
- Taco Seasoning: This is the secret weapon for achieving that authentic Tex-Mex flavor. Whether you use a store-bought packet or your own homemade blend, it infuses the soup with a delicious mix of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and other spices. Adjust the amount to your preferred spice level!
- Black Beans: Rinsed and drained black beans add a wonderful source of plant-based protein, fiber, and a pleasing textural contrast to the soup. They absorb the flavors beautifully.
- Corn: Both canned or frozen corn works perfectly here. It brings a touch of natural sweetness and a pop of color, complementing the savory notes of the beef and spices.
- Petite Diced Tomatoes: These small, diced tomatoes contribute a tangy brightness and chunkiness to the soup. They break down slightly during simmering, adding depth to the broth.
- Tomato Sauce: The tomato sauce creates the rich, vibrant red base of the soup, tying all the flavors together and providing a smooth, flavorful liquid.
- Water: While you could use broth, water is perfectly fine in this recipe as the taco seasoning and other ingredients provide ample flavor. It helps create the perfect soupy consistency.
If you love simple, comforting one-pot meals, you absolutely have to try my delicious One Pot Beefy Cheesy Potatoes!
Full Ingredients List
For your convenience, here are the exact measurements for this one-pot wonder:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained (or 1 ½ cups frozen corn)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can petite diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 15 oz water
- 2–3 tbsp taco seasoning (adjust to taste)
Optional Toppings (highly recommended for the full experience):
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
- Diced avocado or a dollop of guacamole
- Crispy tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips
- Fresh lime wedges for squeezing
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
🔒 The printable recipe card further down includes the full ingredient list and exact amounts – perfect for saving or printing for later use in your kitchen.
How to Make One-Pot Taco Soup
Preparing this flavorful taco soup is incredibly simple. Follow these straightforward steps for a delicious meal:
Step 1: Brown the Beef
To a large Dutch oven or a sturdy pot on the stove, add your ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is thoroughly browned and no pink remains. Once cooked, carefully drain any excess grease from the pot to ensure a less oily soup.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Return the pot to the stove. Add the rinsed and drained black beans, drained corn, undrained petite diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, and the taco seasoning. Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until everything is well combined and the seasoning is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for approximately 20 minutes. This simmering time allows all the wonderful flavors to meld and deepen, creating a rich and harmonious taste. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
Step 4: Serve Warm & Customize
Once the soup has simmered and is heated through, ladle it into bowls. Serve warm with an assortment of your favorite toppings. Think cool sour cream, creamy avocado, tangy lime juice, and crunchy tortilla strips. Enjoy your homemade, comforting taco soup!
🔒 Remember, the detailed step-by-step instructions are also conveniently available in the printable recipe card below – don’t forget to save it for quick reference!
One-Pot Taco Soup Variations for Every Taste
One of the best things about this taco soup is how easily it can be customized to suit different preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
- Change the Protein: While ground beef is classic, you can easily swap it for ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply skip the beef entirely and add an extra can of beans (like pinto or kidney) or a cup of cooked lentils for protein. Plant-based ground crumbles also work great.
- Add More Beans: For extra heartiness and protein, consider adding a can of pinto beans or kidney beans along with the black beans. Ensure they are rinsed and drained.
- Boost the Veggies: Sauté diced onions and bell peppers with the ground beef for extra flavor and nutrients. You can also stir in other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or even sweet potatoes during the simmering process.
- Make It Spicier: If you love a kick, add a can of Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies) in place of the plain diced tomatoes, or stir in some diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled) or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Make It Heartier: For a thicker, more substantial soup, stir in about ½ cup of cooked rice or small pasta (like elbow macaroni or ditalini) during the last 10 minutes of simmering. It will absorb some of the liquid and make it even more filling.
- Creamy Indulgence: For a richer, creamier soup, stir in a block of cream cheese (cut into cubes) during the last few minutes of simmering, allowing it to melt completely. A splash of heavy cream or a swirl of plain Greek yogurt at the end can also add a luxurious texture.
👉 If you enjoy these robust flavors baked into a casserole, you’ll love my Stuffed Pepper Casserole!
My Pro TipS
Tips and Tricks for the Best Taco Soup
- Control the Spice: If you prefer to manage the heat level precisely, consider using homemade taco seasoning. This allows you to adjust chili powder and other spices to your family’s liking.
- Boost Flavor with Salsa: For an extra layer of flavor and a little more liquid, stir in a few tablespoons of your favorite salsa along with the other canned ingredients.
- Longer Simmer, Richer Flavor: While 20 minutes is enough, letting the soup simmer a bit longer (up to 30-40 minutes) on low heat will allow the flavors to deepen and meld even more intensely. Just ensure the lid is on to prevent too much reduction.
- The Next-Day Magic: This soup is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day! The ingredients have more time to mingle and develop, resulting in an even richer, more complex flavor profile.
- Don’t Skimp on Toppings: Toppings are crucial for taco soup! They add texture, freshness, and a burst of flavor. Provide a variety for everyone to choose from.
Recipe FAQs – One-Pot Taco Soup
Absolutely! To adapt this for a slow cooker, first brown your ground beef in a skillet on the stove, then drain any excess fat. Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker along with all the other ingredients (black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, and taco seasoning). Stir everything together, then cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until heated through and flavors have melded. It’s a fantastic hands-off option!
Yes, absolutely! This is one of the best recipes to double or even triple for meal prepping. It holds up exceptionally well in the fridge and freezes beautifully, making it perfect for having quick, homemade meals ready to go throughout the week or month.
The best toppings really elevate this soup! My personal favorites include a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend), fresh diced avocado, and crispy tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips for crunch. A squeeze of fresh lime juice and some chopped cilantro also add a wonderful brightness.
Yes, it’s very easy to make this soup vegetarian! Simply omit the ground beef. You can add an extra can of black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans for more substance and protein. Sautéed diced bell peppers and onions at the beginning also make a great addition. You could also use plant-based ground crumbles if desired.
Generally, yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Most canned ingredients (beans, corn, tomatoes, tomato sauce) are gluten-free, but always double-check the labels, especially for your taco seasoning. Some store-bought taco seasonings may contain anti-caking agents with gluten. Using a homemade gluten-free taco seasoning is always a safe bet.
Yes, to make this soup dairy-free, simply omit any dairy toppings like shredded cheese and sour cream. The base soup itself is dairy-free. You can use dairy-free sour cream alternatives or a squeeze of lime juice for a similar tangy flavor profile.
👉 If you enjoy comforting soups like this, then you’ll also love my Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup.
Serving Suggestions for One-Pot Taco Soup
This taco soup is a meal in itself, but a few additions can make it even more special:
- Top It Up: Don’t underestimate the power of toppings! Provide a fun bar with shredded cheese, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), diced avocado, crispy tortilla strips, a squeeze of fresh lime, and chopped cilantro.
- Bread & Sides: Serve alongside warm, buttery cornbread for a classic pairing. A cheesy quesadilla cut into strips also makes a fantastic dipper.
- Fresh Green Salad: Balance the richness of the soup with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
- Chips and Dips: Offer a side of tortilla chips with salsa, guacamole, or queso for extra Tex-Mex flair.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Tips
This taco soup is incredibly freezer-friendly and perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights even easier.
- Fridge Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezer Storage: For longer storage, freeze the cooled soup in airtight, freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months. For convenience, consider freezing it in single-serve portions, so you can easily grab a quick lunch or dinner. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through, until hot. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick after storage.
👉 Discover more fantastic freezer-friendly recipes like my Queso Chili!
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One-Pot Taco Soup
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Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 15 oz can black beans
- 1 15 oz can corn
- 1 14.5 oz can petite diced tomatoes
- 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 15 oz water
- 2 –3 tbsp taco seasoning
Optional Toppings
- sour cream
- shredded cheese
- avocado
- tortilla strips
- lime
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: To a large Dutch oven or pot on the stove over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until fully browned. Drain any excess grease from the pot.
- Combine All Ingredients: Add the black beans (rinsed and drained), corn (drained), petite diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, water, and taco seasoning to the pot with the browned beef. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Simmer to Blend Flavors: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the flavors blend harmoniously and the soup heats evenly.
- Serve Warm with Toppings: Ladle the warm soup into bowls. Serve immediately with your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, diced avocado, or crispy tortilla strips for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Notes
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 4g |
Protein: 16g |
Fat: 18g |
Saturated Fat: 7g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 8g |
Trans Fat: 1g |
Cholesterol: 64mg |
Sodium: 217mg |
Potassium: 401mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 2g |
Vitamin A: 135IU |
Vitamin C: 8mg |
Calcium: 44mg |
Iron: 3mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.