Who doesn’t love a cozy, warm bowl of soup, especially on a chilly evening? Taco Soup Frios is the ultimate comfort food that’s not only delicious but also super quick to make. Honestly, this recipe has become a favorite in my kitchen because it’s ready in just 30 minutes. Imagine all the bold, Tex-Mex flavors of tacos—ground beef, beans, corn, and spices—coming together in one big pot. Sounds good, right?
The best part? You don’t need any fancy skills or ingredients. Everything comes together easily, and you can even customize it with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or tortilla chips. Whether you’re a busy parent, a teen learning to cook, or just someone who loves tacos, this recipe is for you. So grab your ingredients, and let’s make a bowl of happiness together—it’s simpler than you think!
Ingredients for the Best Taco Soup Frios
When it comes to making Taco Soup Frios, it all starts with the right ingredients. The good news is, you probably already have most of these in your kitchen! With a few simple items, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful soup that’s perfect for any day of the week. Let’s break it down step by step so it’s super easy to follow.
Essential Ingredients
First, let’s talk about the main ingredients you’ll need to make this soup shine. You’ll definitely want to grab ground beef because it adds a rich and savory base. Then, you’ll need diced tomatoes, which bring a tangy, juicy flavor. Don’t forget taco seasoning! It’s the magic mix that gives this soup its bold and spicy kick. Add black beans for a creamy texture and corn for a touch of sweetness.
If you enjoy a little extra heat, you can go ahead and toss in some jalapeños or even add some chopped bell peppers for a bit of crunch and a pop of color. Plus, these simple additions are completely customizable, so it’s totally up to you how much you want to include. And, because they’re optional, they make it super easy to adjust the soup to match your taste perfectly.. Looking for a twist on classic soups? Try our creamy and comforting 4-Ingredient Potato Soup.
Recommended Toppings
Now, here’s the fun part—toppings! Once your soup is ready, it’s time to load it up with your favorite extras. A handful of shredded cheese will melt perfectly into the soup, making it extra creamy. A dollop of sour cream adds a cool and tangy contrast to the spices. For a fresh touch, sprinkle some cilantro on top.
If you love some crunch, crush up some tortilla chips and sprinkle them over your bowl. Or you can even serve the soup with chips on the side for dipping! The best part? You can mix and match toppings however you like to make it your own.
Pantry Staples to Have on Hand
Before you start cooking, make sure your pantry is stocked with a few basics. You’ll definitely need chicken broth because it creates a rich, flavorful base for the soup. Additionally, seasonings like garlic powder and onion powder will work wonderfully to deepen the flavor without requiring much effort at all. And, if you happen to run out of taco seasoning, don’t worry—you can easily whip up your own by combining chili powder, cumin, paprika, and just a little salt. This way, you’ll still get that bold, delicious flavor you’re craving!
With these staples ready to go, whipping up this recipe will be quick and easy every time.
Ingredient Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 can (14.5 oz) |
| Taco seasoning | 1 packet |
| Black beans | 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed |
| Corn | 1 cup (frozen or canned) |
| Jalapeños (optional) | 1-2, diced |
| Bell peppers (optional) | 1, chopped |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
Now you’ve got everything you need to make the best Taco Soup Frios. Let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Taco Soup Frios
Making Taco Soup Frios is super easy when you follow these simple steps. It’s a quick recipe that anyone can handle, and the best part is, you don’t need to be a pro in the kitchen. Let’s get started!
1 : Preparing Your Ingredients
First, you’ll need to prepare your ingredients. Start by chopping up any fresh veggies, like bell peppers or jalapeños, if you’re using them. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-chopped onions or frozen vegetables to save a few minutes. Next, open up your cans of black beans, diced tomatoes, and corn. Make sure to drain and rinse the beans so they’re ready to go.
For even faster prep, gather all your spices and ingredients before you start cooking. This way, everything is within reach, and you don’t have to stop midway to grab something.
2 : Cooking the Taco Soup Frios
Now it’s time to cook! Grab a large pot and place it over medium heat. Start by browning the ground beef. Stir it around until it’s fully cooked, and make sure to break it into small crumbles as it cooks. Once the beef is ready, drain any extra grease if needed.
Next, add your taco seasoning to the beef. Stir it in really well to make sure all the flavors stick to the meat. Then, pour in your diced tomatoes, chicken broth, black beans, and corn. Give everything a good stir so the flavors can start to combine. Let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes to get nice and warm. Looking for a protein-packed alternative? Try our recipe for Protein Pumpkin Muffins to pair with your soup.
3 : Adjusting for Flavor
Now comes the fun part—tasting! So, go ahead and take a sip to see how it feels. If you think it needs more spice, you can sprinkle in a little chili powder or maybe add a splash of hot sauce. On the other hand, if you’d like a smoky flavor, just try adding a pinch of smoked paprika. And don’t forget, you can always adjust the seasoning as you go to make it taste just right for you!
4 : Alternative Cooking Methods
If you don’t want to stand by the stove, you can use a slow cooker or pressure cooker instead. For the slow cooker, simply brown the ground beef first, then toss everything into the pot. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
With a pressure cooker, brown the beef using the sauté function. Add the remaining ingredients, then cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Quick-release the pressure, and your soup is ready to serve!
Tips to Save Time Without Sacrificing Flavor
We all know life can get busy, but that doesn’t mean you have to skip out on a tasty homemade meal. Taco Soup Frios is already quick, but with a few extra tricks, you can make it even faster and easier. Let’s look at some time-saving tips that still keep all the flavor you love.
One-Pot Cooking for Less Cleanup
One-pot recipes are a total lifesaver, especially on busy days. By cooking everything in just one pot, you don’t have to worry about washing a ton of dishes later. Plus, it helps keep all the flavors together, which makes the soup taste even better.
To make it even simpler, start by browning your ground beef right in the same pot. Then, add the other ingredients like beans, tomatoes, and taco seasoning directly into the pot. This way, all the flavors build up as you cook, and you’re not constantly switching between pans. It’s quick, easy, and leaves you with way less cleanup—what’s not to love?
Prepping Ahead of Time
If you’re someone who likes to plan ahead, prepping your ingredients can save a ton of time. For example, you can chop up fresh veggies like bell peppers or onions the night before. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll be ready to go when you start cooking.
Another great tip is to cook your ground beef ahead of time. You can brown it, let it cool, and then freeze it in small portions. When you’re ready to make your Taco Soup Frios, just take out what you need and toss it into the pot.
Don’t forget about leftovers! This soup freezes really well, so you can make a big batch and freeze some for later. It’s perfect for those nights when you don’t feel like cooking from scratch.
Using Store-Bought Ingredients
Sometimes, it’s absolutely okay to take a shortcut, especially when you’re short on time. For example, store-bought ingredients can be a huge help in making things easier. Pre-made taco seasoning is a fantastic option because it saves so much time, and you won’t even have to worry about measuring out all the different spices.
Canned ingredients like diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn are also super handy. They’re already cooked, so all you need to do is open the can, drain them, and toss them in the pot. Using these ingredients can cut your prep time in half without losing any of that bold, delicious flavor.
Toppings and Serving Suggestions
Taco Soup Frios is already packed with flavor, but the right toppings and sides can take it to the next level. Whether you want to stick with the classics or try something new, there are plenty of options to make your meal extra special. Let’s talk about some must-have toppings, creative serving ideas, and ways to make it kid-friendly.
Must-Have Taco Soup Toppings
No bowl of Taco Soup Frios is complete without some delicious toppings. First, shredded cheese is a must! Sprinkle a handful of cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend on top while the soup is hot. It’ll melt perfectly and make every bite creamy and delicious. Next, go ahead and add a dollop of sour cream because it helps balance the spices and gives the soup a cool, tangy flavor. Then, for a fresh kick, you can sprinkle some chopped cilantro or sliced green onions on top, which adds even more flavor and color. And of course, let’s not forget about the crunch—crushed tortilla chips make the perfect finishing touch. Plus, if you want to make it extra fun, you can even use whole tortilla chips to scoop up the soup just like a dip!
Creative Serving Ideas
If you’re looking to switch things up, there are plenty of fun ways to serve Taco Soup Frios. For example, pair it with a warm slice of cornbread on the side. The sweetness of the cornbread goes perfectly with the spicy flavors of the soup.
Another great option is to serve it with a simple side salad. A fresh, crunchy salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing balance to the hearty soup.
Pair your Taco Soup Frios with a side of Sweet Potato Cornbread or serve it as a dip with tortilla chips for a party-friendly option.
Kid-Friendly Variations
If you’re serving Taco Soup Frios to kids or picky eaters, you can easily make a milder version. Start by using less taco seasoning or choosing a mild variety. You can also skip the jalapeños or other spicy add-ins.
Let kids have fun by letting them choose their own toppings. Set up a “topping bar” with cheese, sour cream, and chips so they can make their bowl just how they like it. When kids feel involved, they’re more likely to enjoy the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Taco Soup Frios Recipe
The main ingredients include ground beef, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and chicken broth. You can also add extras like jalapeños or bell peppers for more flavor.
To make it thicker, you can mix a little cornstarch with water and stir it into the soup. Another option is to mash some of the beans or add a handful of shredded cheese while it’s still hot.
If it’s too spicy, add a dollop of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream. These will tone down the heat and make it creamier.
Taco soup can last up to 4 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
And there you have it! Taco Soup Frios is one of the easiest and tastiest recipes you can make, and the best part is how quick it comes together. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a cozy family dinner, or even a party, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, with so many toppings and add-ins to choose from, you can make it exactly how you like it.
So why not try this Taco Soup Frios recipe tonight? It’s packed with flavor, super comforting, and ready in just 30 minutes. Don’t forget to pile on your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, and crunchy tortilla chips!