Taco Soup
Taco soup is a warm, hearty dish that brings the flavors of your favorite taco ingredients together in a comforting bowl of goodness. This recipe is simple to follow and perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends. If you love tacos, you’ll enjoy this easy-to-make soup that combines all the flavors in one pot.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make taco soup because it is quick, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. It’s a one-pot meal that saves you time on cleanup. Plus, it is filled with protein, beans, and vegetables, making it a nutritious choice. You can also customize it to suit your tastes or make it ahead of time for busy nights.
How to Make Taco Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeno, diced
- 2 whole chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 15 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn
- 28 ounces diced tomatoes
- 1 cup salsa
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the diced jalapeno and cook for another minute.
- Add the shredded chicken, chili powder, cumin, oregano, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, salsa, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, until heated through.
- Serve hot.
How to Serve Taco Soup
Serve taco soup hot in bowls. You can top it with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or tortilla chips for added flavor and crunch. It goes great with some warm bread or cornbread on the side.
How to Store Taco Soup
To store leftover taco soup, let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup for longer storage, allowing it to last for about 2-3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Taco Soup
- For added spice, leave some seeds in the jalapeno or add cayenne pepper.
- Feel free to use ground beef or turkey instead of chicken if you prefer.
- You can throw in any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers or zucchini.
- If you want a thicker soup, mash some of the black beans before adding them to the pot.
Variation
You can make a vegetarian version of taco soup by omitting the chicken and adding more beans or lentils. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter taste.
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use canned chicken to save time. Just drain it and add it straight to the pot.
Can I make taco soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Is taco soup spicy?
The spice level depends on how much jalapeno you add. You can adjust the heat to your liking by either using less jalapeno or adding additional ingredients like hot sauce.