This Black Bean Taco Soup is a warm and hearty dish that’s super easy to make! It’s packed with delicious black beans, fresh veggies, and just the right amount of spices to make your taste buds dance.
The best part? It’s like a taco party in a bowl! I love to top it with cheese and avocado for that extra yummy factor. Perfect for chilly nights or when you want a quick meal that feels special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef gives the soup a hearty flavor, but I often use ground turkey for a lighter option. You can also try black beans or lentils for a vegetarian twist!
Black Beans: These are a key ingredient for protein. If you’re out of canned black beans, kidney beans or pinto beans work well as substitutes.
Broth: Beef broth adds depth to the soup, but vegetable broth is a great alternative for a lighter flavor. Homemade broth is lovely if you have it on hand!
Spices: Chili powder and cumin bring warmth and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, taco seasoning works as a swap! Just adjust based on how spicy you like it.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Ground Beef?
Cooking the ground beef right is crucial for the dish. Follow these tips for great results:
- Start with a hot pan to get a nice sear on the meat.
- Break the meat apart as it cooks for even browning; don’t stir too much or it can steam.
- Once it’s browned, drain any excess fat to keep the soup light.
Following these steps ensures your ground beef will add delicious flavor and texture to your soup! Enjoy your cooking!
Black Bean Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt for garnish
- Tortilla chips for serving (optional)
- Shredded cheese for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Black Bean Taco Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. You’ll have a wonderful, comforting meal ready in about 40 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and soft. Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook it for another 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant.
2. Cook the Ground Meat:
Now, add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Let it cook for about 6-8 minutes until it’s browned and no longer pink. If there’s excess fat, you can drain some of it if you’d like to keep it lighter.
3. Add the Spices:
Stir in all the spices: chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and a good sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook this mixture for 1 minute; this helps bring out the flavors of the spices.
4. Stir in the Vegetables:
Now it’s time to add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and the beef broth. Bring the soup up to a boil; watch it bubble away!
5. Simmer and Meld the Flavors:
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes. This will allow all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Final Touches:
Right before serving, stir in the chopped cilantro. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary—you want it to be just right!
7. Serve It Up:
Ladle the warm soup into bowls and finish it off with a sprinkle of diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, some extra cilantro, and shredded cheese if you like. Don’t forget the tortilla chips on the side for that perfect crunch!
This cozy soup captures all the classic taco flavors in a warm, easy-to-make bowl. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Canned Beans Instead of Dried?
Absolutely! Canned black beans work perfectly and save you time. Just make sure to rinse and drain them before adding them to the soup.
How Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
If you like a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the soup. You can also increase the amount of chili powder for an extra punch!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef or turkey and replace the beef broth with vegetable broth. You can also add more beans or vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for extra heartiness.
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
