When you need dinner on the table fast, this recipe for taco soup is the one to grab. It takes just five pantry ingredients plus broth or water, one pot, and about 30 minutes, and the ranch seasoning gives it a creamy, tangy flavor that makes it taste like it simmered all day.
It’s mild, cozy, and easy to customize, so everyone at the table can top their own bowl.
Why You’ll Love This 5-Ingredient Taco Soup
- Five pantry staples. Ground beef, two seasoning packets, black beans, and diced tomatoes, plus broth or water.
- One pot. Brown the beef, stir everything in, and let it simmer.
- Ready in 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights.
- Kid-friendly. Use mild tomatoes and let the kids add their own cheese and chips.
- Budget-friendly. Use water instead of broth to save even more.
What You’ll Need
- Ground beef: 1 pound. Ground turkey works too.
- Taco seasoning: 1 packet.
- Ranch seasoning: 1 packet. This is the secret to the creamy, tangy flavor.
- Black beans: one 15-ounce can, drained and rinsed.
- Diced tomatoes with green chiles: one 10-ounce can. Choose mild for less heat.
- Beef broth or water: 3 cups.
How to Make Taco Soup with Ranch
Step 1: Brown the beef
In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain the excess grease.
Step 2: Add the seasonings
Stir in the taco seasoning and ranch seasoning so the beef is evenly coated.
Step 3: Add the beans, tomatoes, and broth
Add the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chiles, and beef broth or water.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
Step 5: Serve
Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheese or tortilla chips, if you like.
Topping Ideas
- Shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese
- Crushed tortilla chips or Fritos
- Sour cream
- Sliced green onions or avocado
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make slow cooker taco soup?
Yes. Brown and drain the beef, then add everything to your slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours.
Can I use ranch dressing instead of the ranch packet?
The dry ranch packet works best because it seasons the whole pot without thinning the soup. If you love ranch dressing, add a drizzle on top of each bowl.
How do I make taco soup less spicy?
Choose mild diced tomatoes with green chiles and a mild taco seasoning. Toppings like sour cream and cheese also cool it down.
How to Store and Freeze
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
More Cozy Soups You’ll Love
- The Best Potato Soup Recipe
- Easy 5-Ingredient White Chicken Chili
- Easy Taco Casserole with Ground Beef
5-Ingredient Taco Soup with Ranch
Ingredients
Method
- Brown the beef. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess grease.
- Add the seasonings. Stir in the taco seasoning and ranch seasoning.
- Add the rest. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, and broth or water.
- Simmer. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Serve. Serve with shredded cheese or tortilla chips, if desired.
