If you’re craving something cozy, full of flavor, and downright satisfying, this Instant Pot Taco Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines the rich, hearty tastes of seasoned ground beef, beans, and vibrant veggies all simmered together effortlessly in your Instant Pot. With bold spices like cumin and smoked paprika, alongside fresh garnishes, this soup captures all the flavors of your favorite tacos in a warm, comforting bowl. It’s quick to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner, and beloved by everyone around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about simple, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully to create a thick, flavor-packed soup with amazing texture and color. Each item plays an essential role, whether adding depth, heartiness, or brightness.
- Olive oil: Provides a subtle richness and prevents sticking during sautéing.
- Onion: Adds a natural sweetness and aromatic base.
- Extra lean ground beef: Supplies the hearty protein that makes this soup incredibly filling.
- Diced green chilies: Bring a mild heat and a little zing.
- Corn: Adds bursts of sweetness and vibrant color.
- Black beans: Offer creamy texture and a boost of fiber.
- Red kidney beans: Contribute earthiness and robust flavor.
- Diced tomatoes: Provide acidity and moisture to balance everything.
- Chicken broth: Creates the perfect savory soup base.
- Garlic: Delivers that unmistakeable warm, pungent aroma.
- Ground cumin: A key spice for authentic taco flavor.
- Smoked paprika: Introduces subtle smokiness and color.
- Chili powder: Brings a touch of heat and complexity.
- Salt & pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the other flavors.
- Toppings: Tortilla chips, shredded cheese, cilantro, lime wedges, sour cream, avocado, etc., to customize your bowl.
How to Make Instant Pot Taco Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Your Base
Start by heating the olive oil in your Instant Pot and adding the chopped onions and ground beef. Sauté this mixture for about 5 minutes, breaking up the meat with your spoon as it cooks. This step develops those deep, savory flavors that form the soul of your taco soup, making every bite irresistibly delicious.
Step 2: Add Ingredients and Pressure Cook
Once the beef is browned and onions are softened, dump in the diced green chilies, corn, both types of beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), chicken broth, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Give everything a gentle stir to combine. Secure the lid, ensuring the pressure valve is set to sealing, and set your Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. This is where the magic happens as all those wonderful ingredients meld together beautifully.
Step 3: Natural Pressure Release
After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes. This helps the flavors to settle and the soup to thicken slightly. If you’re short on time, you can carefully do a quick release to let out the remaining pressure.
Step 4: Prep Your Toppings
While the soup finishes cooking, get your favorite toppings ready. Whether it’s a handful of crunchy tortilla chips, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro, this is where you can personalize each bowl to your liking.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Finally, taste your taco soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls, pile on the toppings, and get ready to enjoy a steaming bowl of pure comfort food crafted effortlessly with this Instant Pot Taco Soup Recipe.
How to Serve Instant Pot Taco Soup Recipe
Garnishes
The toppings elevate this soup to a whole new level. Crisp tortilla chips add crunch, melted shredded cheese lends gooey richness, and bright cilantro leaves sprinkle in freshness. Lime wedges give a lively acidic contrast that brightens every spoonful. Don’t forget creamy avocado slices or a dollop of tangy sour cream for added decadence.
Side Dishes
This soup is hearty enough to be a complete meal, but if you want to serve it alongside something, consider warm cornbread or a simple green salad. Both provide textural and flavor contrasts that complement the spicy, meaty soup perfectly without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup over a crispy tostada shell for a crunchy base or use it as a dip for tortilla chips at your next gathering. You can also transform it into a taco bowl by spooning it over rice and topping with your favorite taco fixings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Instant Pot Taco Soup Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop overnight, making it even tastier after a day or two. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating.
Freezing
This soup freezes like a dream. Transfer cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Stir occasionally to redistribute the spices and prevent sticking. If the soup thickens too much after storage, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
FAQs
Can I make this Instant Pot Taco Soup Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply skip the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra beans or some diced veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for bulk and flavor.
Is it possible to use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well and keeps the soup lean. Just sauté it the same way as the beef in Step 1 and proceed with the recipe as usual.
Can I use canned beans that are not rinsed?
While you can, it’s best to drain and rinse canned beans to reduce excess sodium and minimize any canned taste, making the soup fresher and cleaner in flavor.
How spicy is this taco soup?
This recipe has a moderate spice level thanks to the mild heat from the chilies and chili powder. You can always adjust by adding more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne if you like it hotter.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just be sure not to fill your Instant Pot more than two-thirds full to allow for proper pressure cooking. You may need to cook in batches or use a larger model.
Final Thoughts
If comfort food had a superstar, this Instant Pot Taco Soup Recipe would surely be in the spotlight. It’s a perfect blend of easy preparation, bold flavor, and hearty ingredients that come together quickly thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe promises a warm hug in a bowl every time. Go ahead, give it a try and watch it become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!
