Pauline'S Taco Soup
A hearty, flavorful taco soup packed with beef, beans, and tomatoes, perfect for cozy dinners and suitable for a crowd or family gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown beef with onion and green chilies.
- Stir in remaining ingredients.
- Bring to a boil.
- Simmer 30 minutes on low.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and chorizo. If you want to lighten the dish, ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes. Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added nutrition. If you're short on time, canned beans can be rinsed and added directly, making this recipe quick and convenient.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the taco soup hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro. It pairs beautifully with Rice And Black Beans for a complete meal. For a casual gathering, consider serving it alongside tortilla chips or warm tortillas for dipping. A simple green salad can also complement this hearty dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover taco soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. Alternatively, it can be microwaved in individual portions, covered, for about 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pauline'S Taco Soup contains roughly 636 calories, with 23g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (52% of the Daily Value), protein (46% of the Daily Value), and iron (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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, taco soup can be made a day ahead. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. It also freezes well for up to 3 months; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
What can I do if my soup is too thick?
If your taco soup turns out too thick, simply add a little broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning as needed after adding liquid.
Can I add other proteins to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can incorporate diced chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian options like lentils or textured vegetable protein. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through and flavors are well combined.
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).