Easy Taco Soup With Cans Recipe

Taco soup is the kind of comfort food that ticks all the boxes. It’s hearty, flavorful, and an absolute breeze to make, especially when you can whip it up using pantry staples. This easy taco soup recipe with cans is perfect for those busy evenings when you want something filling but don’t have the time or energy for something overly complex. Plus, it’s versatile, which means you can adjust it to fit your tastes or whatever you have on hand.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the fact that it doesn’t require any fancy ingredients. With just a few cans of common items like beans, corn, and tomatoes, you can create a warm and satisfying meal that feels like it’s been slow-cooked all day, even though it only takes about 30 minutes to prepare.

So, let’s dive into how to make this super easy taco soup, because honestly, who doesn’t love a recipe that’s both delicious and quick?

Easy Taco Soup With Cans Recipe

This taco soup recipe is as simple as it gets. You’ll use canned goods that are already seasoned and prepped, cutting out the time-consuming steps and making this the ideal go-to dish for a busy weeknight. You’ll still get all the flavor and richness of a traditional taco soup, but with minimal effort.

Ingredients Needed

• 1 can of ground beef (or beef crumbles) – This will act as your base protein, saving you the time of browning fresh meat. You can also opt for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative.
• 1 can of black beans – These add fiber, richness, and that perfect earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• 1 can of pinto beans – Pinto beans bring a slightly creamy texture and a mild flavor that enhances the overall soup.
• 1 can of corn (drained) – The sweet kernels bring a pop of color and a bit of natural sweetness that balances the savory elements of the soup.
• 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies – This provides a spicy kick and a tangy undertone. If you want it milder, choose plain diced tomatoes instead.
• 1 packet of taco seasoning – No need to measure out individual spices; the taco seasoning packet will give your soup that signature taco flavor.
• 1 can of tomato sauce – This gives your soup its base, creating a smooth, tomatoey liquid to bind all the ingredients together.
• 1 can of diced green chilies – Adds an extra depth of flavor and a little more heat, but you can skip this if you’re not into spice.
• 1 cup of chicken broth – This adds depth to the soup, making it slightly more soupy and less thick.
• Toppings (optional) – Sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, or crushed tortilla chips for garnish.

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat the soup base: In a large pot, heat the chicken broth over medium heat. Once it’s warmed, add the canned tomatoes with chilies, tomato sauce, and the taco seasoning mix. Stir it all together until the seasoning is well dissolved into the liquid.
2. Add the beans and corn: Pour in the black beans, pinto beans, and corn (be sure to drain and rinse the beans if desired). Stir everything together so the beans and corn are evenly distributed in the soup base.
3. Incorporate the beef (or alternative protein): Open the can of ground beef or crumbles and add it to the pot. Stir well to combine, making sure the beef is fully heated and incorporated into the soup. If you’re using a meat alternative like turkey or chicken, just break it up as you stir it in.
4. Simmer and cook: Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow all the flavors to meld together and for the soup to thicken up slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Serve with your favorite toppings: Once your taco soup is ready, serve it hot and garnish with your preferred toppings. Sour cream and shredded cheese are classic options, but you can also add fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or even crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy texture.

Ingredient Insights

• Canned vs Fresh Ingredients: Using canned ingredients not only saves time but also helps retain flavor. Canned tomatoes and beans are often cooked and seasoned right in the can, which means you’re getting a concentrated, rich flavor right off the bat.
• Taco Seasoning: Store-bought taco seasoning is a quick fix, but you can also make your own at home. It usually contains a blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt. Feel free to adjust the spice levels to suit your preference.
• Beans: Both black beans and pinto beans are nutritious powerhouses, loaded with fiber, protein, and essential minerals. They’re the unsung heroes of many soups and stews, helping to bulk up the dish without adding too many calories.
• Ground Beef Alternatives: Ground beef is the classic choice for taco soup, but ground turkey or even plant-based meat options work wonderfully in this recipe. They add a leaner, lighter touch if that’s what you’re after.

Expert Tips

• Make it spicy or mild: You can control the heat level by adjusting the type of canned tomatoes you use. If you want a milder soup, opt for plain diced tomatoes or add less taco seasoning. For an extra spicy kick, include a few dashes of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers, onions, or even zucchini to boost the veggie count. These will blend nicely into the soup, adding texture and a burst of nutrition without overpowering the flavor.
• Add a squeeze of lime: Right before serving, squeeze a little lime juice into the soup to brighten up the flavors. This adds a nice tang that contrasts beautifully with the savory, rich broth.
• Slow Cooker Option: If you have a little extra time and want to set it and forget it, throw all the ingredients into a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours. This will let the flavors meld even more, and it’s a great way to have a hot meal ready when you get home.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Taco Soup: For a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and use extra beans, maybe even adding some roasted vegetables like corn, sweet potatoes, or mushrooms. Vegetable broth can be used as the base instead of chicken broth.
• Beefy with a Twist: You can give the soup a bit more texture by adding ground beef and then topping it with crispy bacon or sausage bits. The added protein will make it even more satisfying.
• Spicy Taco Soup: To kick the spice factor up a notch, add jalapeños, a few dashes of cayenne pepper, or even a can of spicy fire-roasted tomatoes.

Final Words

Taco soup with cans is truly a game-changer for those who need a meal that’s both delicious and effortless. You get all the comfort of a homemade taco soup but with a fraction of the effort and time. The best part? It’s so adaptable. Whether you prefer a meat-packed version, a veggie-heavy bowl, or a spicier kick, you can tweak this recipe to your heart’s content.