Hamburger Taco Soup

Imagine a pot brimming with the rich aroma of seasoned beef mingling with zesty spices and vibrant veggies.

Hamburger Taco Soup is a comforting, no-fuss dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.

Simple ingredients transform into a savory, hearty soup as they simmer together, creating layers of flavor.

Let’s bring this delightful dish to life and enjoy a bowlful of cozy goodness!

Kitchen Tools Required

• 1 large pot
• 1 wooden spoon
• 1 chopping board
• 1 knife
• 1 measuring cup
• 1 can opener

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (4 oz) green chilies
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Cook & Prep Time

To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking Hamburger Taco Soup, follow this timeline:

1. Reading and Preparation (5 minutes)
   • Read through the entire recipe to familiarize yourself with the process and ingredients.
   • Gather all necessary ingredients and equipment.
2. Prep Work (10 minutes)
   • Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
   • Open and drain the black beans and corn.
   • Open the cans of diced tomatoes and green chilies.
3. Cooking (30 minutes)
   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat (1 minute).
   • Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon (8 minutes).
   • Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent (5 minutes).
   • Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and green chilies to the pot (2 minutes).
   • Pour in the beef broth and stir in the taco seasoning, salt, and pepper (2 minutes).
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer (12 minutes).
4. Resting Time (5 minutes)
   • Remove the pot from heat and let the soup rest before serving.

If planning to add toppings, use the resting time to prepare them.

Recipe Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.

Stir in chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.

Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and green chilies to the pot.

Pour in beef broth and stir in taco seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Tips

• Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside the soup for a crunchy contrast and for dipping.
• Fresh Avocado Slices: Add creaminess and a healthy touch to each serving.
• Warm Flour Tortillas: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
• Lime Wedges: Squeeze over the soup for a burst of fresh citrus flavor.
• Sliced Jalapeños: Provide an extra kick of heat for those who enjoy spicier dishes.

Storage

To store Hamburger Taco Soup, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.

Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Freezing

To freeze Hamburger Taco Soup, let it cool completely.

Transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags, and store for up to three months.

Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat Hamburger Taco Soup, use a stovetop over medium heat or a microwave.

Stir occasionally.

Make certain the soup reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Final Thoughts

Hamburger Taco Soup is a delightful and hearty dish that brings together the flavors of a classic taco in a comforting soup form.

It’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a quick and satisfying meal.

The combination of ground beef, beans, corn, and tomatoes creates a rich and flavorful base that’s enhanced by the taco seasoning.

This versatile soup can be easily adjusted to suit your taste preferences by adding extra spices or toppings.

Enjoy it with a side of tortilla chips or a warm piece of bread for a complete meal.

Make sure to savor each spoonful, as the flavors meld beautifully to deliver a satisfying culinary experience.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this Hamburger Taco Soup is sure to be a hit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?

You can definitely swap ground turkey for ground beef. Use one pound, and expect a slightly lighter flavor. Enhance it by adding an extra pinch of salt and a teaspoon of smoked paprika to complement the turkey’s taste.

Is There a Vegetarian Version of This Soup?

You can make it vegetarian by swapping ground beef with one cup of lentils or two cups of chopped mushrooms. Guarantee you use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a rich, savory flavor that pairs well with the spices.

How Do I Thicken the Soup if It’s Too Thin?

To thicken your soup, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water. Stir this slurry into the simmering soup. Alternatively, add a can of refried beans for both thickness and a complementary flavor boost.

Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?

You can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned. Use about 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes. Consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste for depth. Fresh tomatoes add a vibrant flavor, enhancing the soup’s freshness.

What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Pair With This Soup?

Pair this soup with cheesy quesadillas or a crisp mixed greens salad. Add avocado slices for creaminess. Serve with tortilla chips for crunch. Try a side of cilantro-lime rice to complement the soup’s bold flavors.