Nina'S Taco Soup
A hearty, flavorful taco soup with ground beef, corn, and beans, perfect for casual gatherings and comforting family dinners with a touch of Mexican flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and chopped onion in a large pot.
- Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the taco seasoning to the cooked meat and onion.
- Stir in the drained corn and kidney beans.
- Add water or broth as needed to reach desired consistency.
- Simmer the soup for about 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños when browning the meat. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the hamburger with lentils or textured vegetable protein. Additionally, you can use black beans instead of kidney beans for a different taste. Adjust the taco seasoning to your spice preference, especially if you're serving kids. This soup is versatile and can be enhanced with toppings like avocado or cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Nina's Taco Soup with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Bed And Breakfast Tortillas or a side of crispy tortilla chips for crunch. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a simple green salad or some Mexican Fried Okra to round out the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nina'S Taco Soup contains roughly 1271 calories, with 43g protein, 172g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (190% of the Daily Value), protein (86% of the Daily Value), and iron (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1524mg per serving (66% 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 soup in advance?
Yes, Nina's Taco Soup can be made in advance. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just be sure to store it properly in the refrigerator and reheat it gently before serving.
What can I add for extra protein?
To boost the protein content, you can add shredded chicken, turkey, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. If you’re looking for a heartier version, consider stirring in some cooked quinoa or brown rice before serving.
Is it possible to make this soup spicier?
Absolutely! To increase the heat, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce when cooking. You can also use a spicier taco seasoning blend. Just be sure to taste as you go to avoid overpowering the other flavors.
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).