One Pot Taco Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of this absolutely irresistible One Pot Taco Soup! With tender ground beef, zesty taco spices, and every Tex-Mex flavor you crave, this soup is bold, hearty, and packed with colorful veggies and beans.

The best part? It comes together in just one pot with minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want maximum flavor with minimal effort. Every spoonful is satisfying, cozy, and layered with comforting Southwest goodness.

Inspired by game days and family suppers alike, this taco soup has quickly become my go-to recipe when I want something delicious, filling, and guaranteed to win over even picky eaters!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy—ready in under an hour with just one pot to clean
• Bursting with classic taco flavors and wholesome ingredients
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers taste even better
• Customizable toppings make it super fun for family or parties

Key Ingredients for One Pot Taco Soup Recipe

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Ground Beef

The foundation of this taco soup, ground beef brings savory, meaty flavor and satisfying richness. Opt for lean beef (around 90/10) for less grease while still getting tons of taste. You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist, but beef gives it that unmistakable “taco” experience.

Taco Seasoning

This magical mix infuses the soup with smoky cumin, chili powder, garlic, and bold spices—everything you love in your favorite tacos! Use a packet for convenience or go homemade with your own blend. Adjust the heat by choosing mild or spicy seasoning.

Canned Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles

These tomatoes add juicy acidity and just a hint of spice, building a flavorful soup base without fuss. If you don’t have them, swap in regular canned diced tomatoes and a small can of green chiles.

Beans

Classic taco soup is loaded with beans—kidney and black beans are traditional, offering plenty of plant-based protein and heartiness. You can use canned beans (drained and rinsed) for convenience, or swap in pinto or chili beans if you like.

Corn

Sweet corn kernels add pops of freshness and balance the spice. You can toss in frozen, canned (drained), or even fresh if it’s in season!

Instructions for One Pot Taco Soup Recipe

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot with the onions and garlic. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and no pink remains—about 5-6 minutes. If there’s excess grease, drain most of it off, leaving a little for flavor.

Add Seasonings and Build Flavor

Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well so the beef and onions are evenly coated with all those delicious spices. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the seasoning and bring out the flavors.

Combine Beans, Corn, and Tomatoes

Pour in the drained beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chiles, and tomato sauce. Give everything a good stir so the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Pour in Broth and Simmer

Add the beef broth to the pot, then increase the heat and bring the soup to a simmer. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it gently simmer for 15-20 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and the soup thicken slightly.

Taste and Serve

Give your soup a taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Ladle into bowls and pile on your favorite taco toppings—think shredded cheese, dollops of sour cream, sprinkles of fresh cilantro, crunchy tortilla chips, or spicy jalapeños!

Recipe Variations

Make It Spicy

Love extra heat? Use a hot taco seasoning or add a chopped jalapeño (seeds and all!) when you sauté the onions. A pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce works too.

Vegetarian Version

Simply swap the ground beef for an extra can of beans—pinto, black, or even chili beans work great! Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a totally meatless, protein-packed soup.

Gluten-Free Twist

This recipe is naturally gluten-free if your taco seasoning and broth are certified gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure!

Chicken Taco Soup

For a delicious change, use ground chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken instead of beef. Layer the flavors the same way—it’s wonderful with the same toppings.

Add More Veggies

Feel free to sneak in bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach! Sauté diced vegetables along with the onions to add more texture and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your One Pot Taco Soup with a side of warm cornbread, cheesy quesadillas, or a crisp green salad to complete the meal. Top each bowl generously with your favorite taco toppings like shredded cheddar, creamy sour cream, fresh cilantro, crunchy tortilla strips, or sliced avocado for the ultimate Tex-Mex feast!

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover taco soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days—it gets even tastier as the flavors meld! Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until piping hot. To freeze, transfer cooled soup to freezer-safe containers; it’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About One Pot Taco Soup Recipe (FAQ)

Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Brown the beef and onions first, then add everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Q: Can I freeze One Pot Taco Soup?
A: Yes! This soup freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.

Q: What are the best toppings for taco soup?
A: Try shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, avocado, chopped green onions, tortilla strips, or a squeeze of lime—mix and match your favorites!

Craving cozy comfort with barely any cleanup? This One Pot Taco Soup Recipe is your ticket to bold flavor and effortless weeknight dinners! I hope you and your family enjoy it as much as we do—don’t forget to leave a comment or rating and let me know how it turned out!