Best High Protein Taco Soup Recipe

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Image: eatinspired.com / All Rights reserved
With hearty ground beef, tender beans, and a rich tomato broth loaded with Mexican-inspired spices, this protein-packed taco soup delivers all the flavors you love in a taco – but in cozy, comforting soup form. The one-pot recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners when you want something filling and nutritious. Our family started making this soup during our weekly meal prep sessions, and it’s become such a hit that we now keep individual portions frozen for quick lunches and easy dinners throughout the month. The leftovers taste even better the next day, making it an ideal make-ahead meal for busy families or anyone looking to boost their protein intake without sacrificing flavor.


Ingredient List

  • 1 Tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 lb ground lean beef (or ground turkey or ground chicken)
  • 0.5 medium onion, diced
  • 4 tsp fresh minced garlic
  • 1 packet reduced sodium taco seasoning
  • 1.5 Tbsp dry ranch dressing mix
  • 28 oz canned diced tomatoes (fire roasted preferred)
  • 8 oz bone broth
  • 8 oz prepared salsa
  • 4 oz canned diced green chiles
  • 15 oz canned dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 15 oz canned black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 11 oz canned southwestern style corn

Preparation Time 15-20 minutes
Cooking Time 180-240 minutes
Total Time 195-260 minutes
Level of Difficulty Medium

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 lbs ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken), half chopped onion, and optional 4 teaspoons minced garlic. Cook until meat browns (5-10 minutes). Drain excess liquid.
  2. Place browned meat in slow cooker. Add fire-roasted diced tomatoes (large can), beef broth (8 oz), salsa (8 oz), diced green chilies (small can), drained kidney beans and black beans (1 can each), Southwest corn (1 can), taco seasoning (1 packet), and ranch dressing mix (1½ tablespoons). Stir to combine.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
  4. Serve hot, optionally topped with tortilla chips, Fritos, sour cream, guacamole, or cheese. Adjust thickness with additional beef broth if needed.
  5. For precise portions, weigh total batch and divide by desired servings. Store leftovers in airtight containers in refrigerator.

Recipe Image
Image: eatinspired.com / All Rights reserved

Recipe Image
Image: eatinspired.com / All Rights reserved

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