Instant Pot Taco Soup: A Flavor-Packed One-Pot Meal for Busy Nights

If you're looking for a quick, hearty, and flavorful meal, Instant Pot Taco Soup is the perfect solution. This soup is packed with bold spices, tender ground beef, beans, and corn, all simmered in a rich tomato broth. 

It's an easy, one-pot meal that delivers comfort and nutrition in under 30 minutes. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this recipe is a winner.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.

• One-Pot Meal: Less mess and easy cleanup.

• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap proteins, or add your favorite toppings.

• Nutritious & Filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and flavor.

• Great for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

Soup Base:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained

• 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)

• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce

• 1 (4 oz) can green chilies (optional for extra heat)

• 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings:

• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)

• Sour cream

• Avocado slices

• Fresh cilantro

• Crushed tortilla chips

• Lime wedges

• Jalapeño slices (for extra heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Aromatics

1. Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add a drizzle of oil.

2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.

3. Add the onions and cook until softened (about 2 minutes).

4. Stir in the garlic, cooking for another 30 seconds.

5. Drain any excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Add the Ingredients

6. Turn off Sauté mode and add the taco seasoning, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

7. Pour in the beef broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

8. Add the black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, green chilies (if using), and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Pressure Cook

9. Secure the lid, set the valve to Sealing, and select Manual (Pressure Cook) mode.

10. Set to 10 minutes on High Pressure.

11. Once the cooking cycle is complete, let the Instant Pot do a Natural Release for 5 minutes, then do a Quick Release by turning the valve to Venting.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

12. Stir the soup, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.

13. Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, avocado, or crushed tortilla chips.

14. Serve hot with lime wedges and enjoy!

Recipe Tips & Variations

Make It Spicier

• Add a diced jalapeño while sautéing the onions.

• Use hot Rotel tomatoes instead of regular.

• Increase the chili powder or add cayenne pepper.

Make It Lighter

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.

• Use low-sodium broth and beans.

• Skip the cheese and sour cream or use Greek yogurt as a substitute.

Vegetarian/Vegan Option

• Omit the meat and use an extra can of beans.

• Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Slow Cooker Version

1. Brown the meat in a pan before adding to the slow cooker.

2. Add all ingredients and cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! Taco soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

2. Can I freeze Instant Pot Taco Soup?

Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

3. How do I reheat leftovers?

• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat until warmed through.

• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

• Instant Pot: Use the Sauté function to warm it up quickly.

4. What can I serve with Taco Soup?

• Warm cornbread or tortilla chips for dipping.

• A side of Mexican rice.

• A fresh green salad for balance.

5. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, substitute 4 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes in place of canned tomatoes. You may need to add extra broth to maintain the soup's consistency.

6. Can I make this soup without an Instant Pot?

Definitely! Cook it on the stovetop by following the same steps, simmering for 20-30 minutes on low heat.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Taco Soup is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s packed with bold flavors, easy to customize, and perfect for meal prep. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a satisfying, comforting meal in no time. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious bowl of taco goodness!

Did you make this recipe? Let us know how it turned out in the comments! Happy cooking! 🌮🍲