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Simple Taco Soup

This simple taco soup is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Ground beef is browned and combined with an array of canned beans, corn, tomatoes, and seasoned with taco and ranch mixes. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's a convenient and comforting one-pot meal that delivers classic taco flavors in a satisfying soup form.
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Total Time 25 minutes
Course lunch/dinner
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6 people
Calories 3747 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large Pot or Dutch Oven
  • 1 Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • 1 Can Opener
  • 1 Colander for rinsing beans
  • 1 Ladle

Ingredients
  

Main

  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 1.25 ounce package taco seasoning mix
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1 15 ounce can mild chili beans
  • 1 15.25 ounce can whole kernel corn, drained
  • 1 15 ounce can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 14.5 ounce can stewed tomatoes
  • 1 10 ounce can diced tomatoes with green chile peppers
  • 1 4 ounce can chopped green chilies
  • 1 1 ounce package ranch salad dressing mix

Instructions
 

  • Brown ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until no pink remains.
  • Carefully drain any excess fat from the browned beef.
  • Return the beef to the pot, then stir in 1 1/2 cups water and the taco seasoning mix. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  • While the beef simmers, rinse and drain the pinto beans and whole kernel corn using a colander.
  • Add the un-drained mild chili beans, the rinsed and drained corn, the rinsed and drained pinto beans, the stewed tomatoes, the diced tomatoes with green chile peppers, and the chopped green chilies to the pot with the beef.
  • Stir in the package of ranch salad dressing mix until well combined.
  • Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
  • Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for at least 15-20 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  • Taste the soup and adjust seasonings if desired, adding more salt, pepper, or a pinch of chili powder for extra depth.
  • Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately, optionally garnished with your favorite taco toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips.

Notes

To reduce sodium and improve texture, always rinse and drain canned beans thoroughly before adding them. For a richer, deeper flavor, allow the soup to simmer for at least 30-45 minutes after combining all ingredients, letting the spices fully meld. Consider browning the ground beef until well-caramelized before draining the fat; this builds a strong flavor base. If you prefer a milder soup, use mild diced green chiles and mild taco seasoning. For a spicier kick, a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce can be added. Serve with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.