If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty, and incredibly flavorful dish that practically screams “comfort food”, then Ree Drummond’s Taco Soup is an absolute must-try. This isn’t just any soup-it’s a vibrant medley of flavors, a beautiful harmony of textures, and a one-pot wonder that brings a little fiesta to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights, casual family gatherings, or even for meal prep, this soup delivers the warmth of a home-cooked meal with minimal fuss.
What makes this soup particularly appealing is how approachable it is. Even if you’re a kitchen newbie, the recipe is straightforward, yet the results taste like you spent hours simmering it on the stove. Imagine tender ground beef, hearty beans, sweet corn, and a tomato base infused with classic taco seasonings-all mingling together to create a rich, savory broth. Top it with shredded cheese, tortilla chips, or a dollop of sour cream, and you have a meal that’s both satisfying and indulgent.
Taco Soup Ree Drummond Recipe
Ree Drummond, also known as The Pioneer Woman, has a way of taking simple ingredients and turning them into something spectacularly comforting. Her Taco Soup recipe is no exception. The dish combines the essence of traditional tacos with the ease of a soup, making it an all-in-one meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance: it’s hearty, but not heavy; flavorful, but not overwhelming; familiar, yet exciting enough to become a family favorite.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up Ree Drummond’s Taco Soup:
- 1 pound ground beef – a rich, flavorful base for the soup
- 1 medium onion, chopped – adds sweetness and depth
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed – for protein and texture
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed – adds creaminess and heartiness
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained – bursts of natural sweetness
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes – juicy, flavorful, and vibrant
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce – adds body to the broth
- 1 package taco seasoning mix (1 oz) – the magic ingredient for that signature taco flavor
- 1 can (4 oz) chopped green chilies – optional, for a mild kick of heat
- Salt and pepper to taste – always essential!
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, tortilla chips, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro.
Cooking Instructions
Making this taco soup is as easy as it is satisfying. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
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Brown The Beef
- In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no pink remains.
- Break it into crumbles for even cooking.
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Sauté The Onion
- Add the chopped onion to the beef and cook until soft and translucent, letting those natural sugars caramelize slightly.
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Add The Base Ingredients
- Stir in the drained beans, corn, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and green chilies.
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Season The Soup
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the mixture and stir well, ensuring every ingredient is coated in that classic taco flavor.
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Simmer
- Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Final Seasoning
- Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
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Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes-cheese, tortilla chips, sour cream, or fresh herbs make it extra special.
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in Ree Drummond’s Taco Soup serves a purpose:
- Ground beef: Provides a rich, savory flavor and substantial protein. You can swap for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Beans: Black and pinto beans contribute texture, fiber, and protein, balancing the richness of the meat.
- Corn: Adds a subtle sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements.
- Tomatoes and tomato sauce: Bring acidity and a luscious broth-like consistency.
- Taco seasoning: A pre-made mix simplifies the process, but creating your own blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano gives it a homemade touch.
- Green chilies: Provide a gentle heat without overwhelming the dish, perfect for those who enjoy a mild kick.
Expert Tips
To elevate your taco soup experience, keep these tips in mind:
- Brown your beef thoroughly: It adds a deep, savory flavor that forms the foundation of the soup.
- Use fresh onions: They make a big difference in aroma and taste.
- Let it rest: A few minutes off the heat after cooking allows the flavors to meld even more.
- Customize heat: Adjust the green chilies or add a pinch of cayenne if you like spice.
- Freeze leftovers: This soup freezes beautifully, so make a double batch for easy future meals.
Recipe Variations
Taco soup is versatile and can be adapted in many creative ways:
- Vegetarian version: Replace ground beef with extra beans, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute.
- Spicy version: Add jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or extra cayenne for a bold flavor.
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of cream, sour cream, or cream cheese for a richer, velvety texture.
- Southwestern twist: Add diced bell peppers, roasted corn, or a dash of smoked paprika.
- Taco salad soup: Top with crushed tortilla chips, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime for a fresh twist.
Final Words
Ree Drummond’s Taco Soup isn’t just a recipe-it’s a warm hug in a bowl. It’s easy to make, versatile, and deeply satisfying. The balance of flavors, textures, and spices makes it a family favorite and a go-to for casual entertaining or weeknight dinners. Its adaptability allows you to get creative while still enjoying that classic taco taste in a comforting soup form.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For Ree Drummond’s Taco Soup?
Ree Drummond’s Taco Soup typically includes ground beef, onion, taco seasoning, canned corn, canned black beans, canned diced tomatoes, canned tomato soup, and shredded cheddar cheese for topping.
Can I Make Ree Drummond’s Taco Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can prepare the soup in a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and onion first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Is There A Vegetarian Version Of Ree Drummond’s Taco Soup?
Yes, you can make it vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and using vegetable broth instead of any meat-based broth. You can also add extra beans, lentils, or vegetables for protein and texture.
How Do I Make Ree Drummond’s Taco Soup Less Spicy?
To reduce the spice, use mild taco seasoning instead of regular or hot, and avoid adding extra chili powder or hot sauce. You can also balance flavors with a bit of sugar or a dollop of sour cream when serving.
Can Ree Drummond’s Taco Soup Be Frozen?
Yes, the soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What Toppings Are Recommended For Ree Drummond’s Taco Soup?
Popular toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, crushed tortilla chips, sour cream, chopped green onions, sliced jalapeños, and fresh cilantro.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Or Chicken Instead Of Beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken works as a leaner alternative. Brown it with the onion before adding it to the soup, just as you would with ground beef.
How Long Does It Take To Make Ree Drummond’s Taco Soup On The Stovetop?
Cooking on the stovetop takes approximately 25-30 minutes. Brown the meat and onion first, then add the remaining ingredients and simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
Is Ree Drummond’s Taco Soup Gluten-free?
The basic recipe is naturally gluten-free if all canned ingredients and taco seasoning are certified gluten-free. Always check labels, especially for canned soups and seasoning mixes.
Can I Make Ree Drummond’s Taco Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, the soup tastes even better the next day. Prepare it in advance, refrigerate overnight, and reheat gently before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together more thoroughly.