5 Ingredient Taco Soup​ – Quick and Easy Recipe

I’ve come to rely on 5-ingredient taco soup as my go-to meal when I need big flavor with minimal prep: hearty ground turkey simmers in a spiced tomato broth with beans and corn, all stirred together in under 20 minutes for a satisfying bowl that feels like a warm hug on busy nights.

What is Taco Soup?

Taco soup is a tasty and hearty dish that blends the bold flavors of Mexican food with the comforting warmth of soup. It is often seen as a mix between chili and a taco. This dish combines a variety of simple ingredients to create something flavorful and satisfying. It is quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights or family meals.

Traditional taco soup includes ingredients like ground meat, beans, tomatoes, and corn. The beauty of a 5 ingredient taco soup​ is its simplicity. By focusing on fewer ingredients, this recipe is easy for beginners while still being delicious. Despite its simplicity, it remains flavorful and versatile, making it a great choice for all skill levels.

Taco soup is also flexible and can fit different dietary needs. For instance, using plant-based meat turns it into a vegetarian option. Choosing low-sodium ingredients can make it a healthier choice. This recipe allows you to adjust the flavors to suit your taste. You can find more tips on customizing healthy meals in this helpful guide.

Whether you serve it as a main dish or pair it with sides, taco soup is a convenient and satisfying meal. Its rich flavors and easy preparation make it a favorite for both families and individuals.

Ingredients Overview

The beauty of a 5 ingredient taco soup​ is that it keeps things simple without skimping on flavor. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a balanced, hearty dish. Below is a breakdown of the five key ingredients:

1. Ground Meat (or Vegetarian Alternative)
   • Ground beef is a traditional choice, but ground turkey or chicken works just as well.
   • For a vegetarian version, consider plant-based crumbles or even lentils for a boost of protein.
   • Make sure to brown the meat thoroughly for maximum flavor.
2. Taco Seasoning
   • A pre-packaged taco seasoning mix is convenient, but making your own allows you to adjust spice levels.
   • Homemade seasoning often contains chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Canned Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies
   • This ingredient forms the flavorful base of the soup.
   • It adds both tanginess and a hint of spice, making it a versatile addition.
   • For those who prefer a milder flavor, plain diced tomatoes are an excellent alternative.
4. Canned Beans (e.g., Black Beans or Kidney Beans)
   • Beans add protein and texture, making the soup filling and nutritious.
   • Be sure to rinse and drain them to reduce sodium content.
5. Corn (Fresh, Canned, or Frozen)
   • Corn adds sweetness and a pleasant crunch to the soup.
   • If you use canned corn, make sure to drain it before adding it to the pot.

These simple ingredients are often pantry staples, making it easy to prepare this recipe anytime. For more ideas on making meals with minimal ingredients, check out this guide to creating lightweight, nutritious dishes.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Creating a 5 ingredient taco soup​ is as simple as it gets, making it an excellent choice for beginners or anyone short on time. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a warm, delicious meal in no time:

1. Prepare Your Ingredients
   • Gather all five ingredients: ground meat (or a vegetarian alternative), taco seasoning, canned diced tomatoes with green chilies, canned beans, and corn.
   • Rinse and drain the beans and, if using canned corn, drain it as well.
2. Cook the Meat (or Alternative)
   • Heat a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
   • If using a vegetarian alternative, sauté it with a tablespoon of oil to enhance its flavor.
   • Stir in the taco seasoning and mix thoroughly to coat the meat or alternative evenly.
3. Combine the Ingredients
   • Once the meat is cooked and seasoned, add the canned diced tomatoes with green chilies.
   • Stir in the beans and corn, making sure everything is well combined.
4. Simmer the Soup
   • Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 15–20 minutes.
   • Stir occasionally to ensure the flavors meld together.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve and Enjoy
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
   • Add toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor.

Tips for Customization

One of the best things about a 5 ingredient taco soup​ is how easily you can adjust it to meet your needs. By making a few simple changes, you can create a version that is just right for you. Below are some ideas to try:

1. Adjust the Spice Level
   • If you love a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce.
   • On the other hand, for a milder flavor, use plain diced tomatoes instead of those with green chilies and cut back on the taco seasoning.
2. Make It Vegetarian or Vegan
   • To create a vegetarian version, swap the ground meat for plant-based crumbles or use hearty vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
   • For a vegan-friendly dish, add toppings like dairy-free cheese or coconut yogurt for a creamy finish.
3. Boost the Nutritional Value
   • To make the soup even healthier, toss in extra vegetables such as diced carrots, celery, or spinach.
   • Additionally, adding quinoa or brown rice can make the dish more filling while boosting its nutritional benefits.
4. Experiment with Toppings
   • If you want more texture and flavor, consider toppings like crushed tortilla chips, shredded cheese, or sour cream.
   • To add freshness, sprinkle the soup with chopped cilantro or green onions before serving.
5. Make It Freezer-Friendly
   • If you want to save time, prepare a double batch and freeze half for later.
   • Be sure to store it in airtight containers and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave for an easy meal.

Health Benefits of Taco Soup

A 5 ingredient taco soup​ isn’t just easy to make; it’s also packed with nutrients that can support a healthy lifestyle. By choosing the right ingredients, you can enjoy a meal that is both comforting and nourishing. Here are some of the key health benefits:

1. High in Protein
   • Using ground meat or plant-based alternatives adds a good dose of protein, which helps build and repair muscles.
   • Beans, such as black or kidney beans, are another excellent source of plant-based protein.
2. Rich in Fiber
   • The beans and vegetables in taco soup provide fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
   • Additionally, fiber can help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a smart choice for those managing diabetes.
3. Loaded with Vitamins and Minerals
   • Canned tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which boost immunity and protect against free radicals.
   • Corn contributes essential nutrients like potassium and folate, supporting heart health and energy production.
4. Low in Unnecessary Additives
   • By using fresh or low-sodium canned ingredients, you can control the amount of salt and avoid unnecessary preservatives.
   • Opting for homemade taco seasoning instead of pre-packaged mixes reduces added sugars and artificial flavors.
5. Balanced Macronutrients
   • Taco soup offers a healthy mix of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, making it a balanced meal option.
   • Adding toppings like avocado can provide healthy fats, while leaving out cheese can lower saturated fat content.

Overall, a 5 ingredient taco soup​ is a wholesome choice for anyone who wants a satisfying meal without compromising on nutrition.

FAQs about 5 ingredient taco soup​

When making a 5 ingredient taco soup​, many questions come up, especially for those new to the recipe. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions to help you prepare this dish with confidence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 5 ingredient taco soup​ is the perfect recipe for those who want a delicious, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Its simplicity, affordability, and versatility make it a favorite for busy families, meal preppers, and even novice cooks. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a dish that is both hearty and flavorful.

Additionally, the adaptability of this recipe ensures it works for almost any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing party dish, or a meal-prep option that freezes well, this taco soup delivers. You can easily customize it to suit your taste by adjusting the spice level, adding toppings, or incorporating extra vegetables.

Moreover, the health benefits of this recipe cannot be overlooked. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, this soup is as nutritious as it is delicious. It also provides the flexibility to make healthier choices, such as using low-sodium ingredients or opting for plant-based alternatives.

So why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a warm bowl of 5 ingredient taco soup​ tonight. It’s a meal that proves you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create something truly satisfying.

5 Ingredient Taco Soup

A hearty, one-pot taco-inspired soup that uses just five pantry staples—ground meat (or a vegetarian alternative), taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, beans, and corn—to deliver bold, customizable flavors in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal-prep, this budget-friendly recipe comes together with minimal prep and cleanup.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 24 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course dinner, Soup

Cuisine Tex-Mex

Servings 6

Calories 260 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound Ground beef or ground turkey/chicken Or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version
• 1 packet Taco seasoning Store-bought or homemade chili powder, cumin, garlic & onion powder
• 14 –15 ounces Canned diced tomatoes with green chilies Includes the juices to form the broth; plain diced tomatoes optional
• 15 ounces Canned black beans or kidney beans, rinsed Rinse & drain to reduce sodium
• 15 ounces Canned corn drained Frozen or fresh corn also works

Instructions

 

Prepare Ingredients

• Gather all five ingredients. Rinse and drain the beans and corn if using canned.

Cook the Meat

• Heat the pot over medium heat. Add ground meat (or alternative) and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up with your spatula. Stir in the taco seasoning until the meat is evenly coated.

Combine & Simmer

• Add the diced tomatoes (with juices), beans, and corn. Stir to combine, then reduce heat to low.

Finish Cooking

• Let the soup simmer, uncovered, for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra taco seasoning if desired.

Serve

• Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, cilantro, or crushed tortilla chips as desired.

Notes

• Vegetarian/Vegan: Swap meat for extra beans or plant-based crumbles; use dairy-free toppings.
• Make-Ahead: Soup can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen (up to 3 months). Reheat gently on the stove.
• Spice Level: Add a diced jalapeño or pinch of cayenne for heat; use plain diced tomatoes for a milder flavor.
• Batch & Freeze: Double the recipe and freeze half in airtight containers for an easy future meal.
• Toppings & Variations: Try topping with tortilla strips, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, or a drizzle of hot sauce.

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