Microwave Taco Soup
A hearty and flavorful microwave taco soup packed with beef, beans, and tomatoes, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or satisfying lunches for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a 3-quart microwave-safe casserole dish for about 7 minutes on High, stirring a couple of times and crumbling the meat as it cooks.
- Drain the cooked meat.
- Add the taco seasoning mix and Hidden Valley seasoning mix to the browned meat and stir well.
- Add all the other ingredients: undrained pinto beans, undrained kidney beans, large can tomatoes, drained corn, chopped green chilies.
- Microwave on High for about 7 to 8 minutes, stirring about halfway through the cooking time.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated cheese and corn chips if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker option, you can substitute the ground beef with cooked shredded chicken or turkey. If you're short on time, use canned tomatoes with added spices for extra flavor. Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less taco seasoning or incorporating jalapeños. This soup can also be made vegetarian by using beans and vegetables only.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the taco soup hot, topped with grated cheese and crushed corn chips for added crunch. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a side of cornbread or a fresh green salad. This dish also pairs beautifully with the Quick Taco Platter for a fun dinner that everyone will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover taco soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to maintain the soup's consistency and heat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months, just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Taco Soup contains roughly 924 calories, with 52g protein, 167g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (384% of the Daily Value), protein (104% of the Daily Value), and iron (86% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2510mg per serving (109% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this taco soup in advance?
Yes, this taco soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making it even tastier. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even a meat substitute like lentils or crumbled tempeh for a vegetarian option. Each will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
Is there a way to make this soup spicier?
Absolutely! To add more heat, consider using spicy taco seasoning, adding diced jalapeños, or incorporating a splash of hot sauce. Adjust the spice level to your liking for a personalized touch.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).