Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey)

4 cloves garlic, minced (or substitute 1 teaspoon garlic powder)

2 teaspoons chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

28 ounce can crushed tomatoes (undrained)

4 ounce can diced green chiles

15 ounce can kidney beans, rinsed and drained

15 ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained

17 ounce can corn, drained

2 cups low-sodium beef broth

Tortilla chips or Fritos, for serving

Sour cream, for garnish

Shredded cheese, for garnish

Green onions, chopped, for garnish

Avocado, chopped, for garnish

Hot sauce, optional

Fresh cilantro, optional

Instructions

Step 1: Heat a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Remove any excess grease from the pot.

Step 2: Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, oregano, paprika, onion powder, and black pepper to the meat. Stir well to combine the spices with the beef.

Step 3: Pour in the crushed tomatoes with their juices, diced green chiles, kidney beans, black beans, corn, and beef broth. Stir everything together thoroughly.

Step 4: Bring the soup to a low boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Serve the soup hot, garnished with tortilla chips or Fritos and your choice of sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, avocado, hot sauce, and fresh cilantro.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.

Add a diced jalapeño for extra heat if you like spicy dishes.

Use canned mild or fire-roasted diced tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes for a different texture.

Make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Serve with warm flour tortillas or over cooked rice to vary the meal.

FAQs

Can I make taco soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the meat and add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add any fresh garnishes just before serving.

Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?

You can use fresh cooked beans, but be sure to cook and drain them properly before adding them to the soup. The cooking time may need to be adjusted to ensure everything is heated through.