This Instant Pot Loaded Taco Soup is a fun twist on taco night! It has all the tasty flavors you love, like seasoned meat, beans, corn, and tomatoes, all cooked together in a jiffy.
This soup is a hit at my house, especially on busy nights. Just toss everything in and let the Instant Pot do the magic. Top it with cheese and chips, and you’re ready to go!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey or Beef: Both options work well, but I usually lean towards ground turkey for a leaner choice. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, use a mix of lentils and mushrooms for a hearty base.
Beans: Black beans and kidney beans add great texture and protein. If you’re short on one, you could use pinto beans or chickpeas as a tasty alternative.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought is fine, but homemade taco seasoning means you control the spices. A mix of cumin, chili powder, and paprika works nicely if you want to keep it simple.
Chicken or Beef Broth: Low-sodium broth is best to control salt levels. You can replace it with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor, which pairs well with the other ingredients.
How Do I Sauté the Meat and Onion Properly?
Sautéing is key to building flavor. Here’s how to get it right:
- Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
- Once the oil is hot, add the ground meat and diced onion. Cook until the meat is browned all over and onions are soft.
- Break the meat apart as it cooks, ensuring even browning.
- If there’s excess fat, drain it before moving on to the next step to keep your soup from being greasy.
These steps help achieve the best flavor and texture for your soup!
Instant Pot Loaded Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground turkey or ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen corn (optional for extra sweetness)
- 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or beef broth
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips (plus extra for topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Diced avocado
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Sour cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking in the Instant Pot, including the time it takes for pressure to build and release. In under an hour, you’ll have a delicious, comforting soup ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Meat and Onions:
Start by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add the ground turkey or beef along with the diced onion. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the meat is browned and the onions are soft. Make sure to break the meat apart as it cooks for even browning. If there’s any excess fat, drain it out.
2. Season the Meat:
Once the meat is cooked, add the taco seasoning to the mix. Stir well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the meat and onions.
3. Combine Remaining Ingredients:
Turn off the sauté mode. Now, add the black beans, kidney beans, canned diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn, frozen corn (if using), chicken or beef broth, and crushed tortilla chips into the pot. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
4. Cook Under Pressure:
Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing. Select manual high pressure and cook for 5 minutes.
5. Release the Pressure:
When the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully switch the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure. Open the lid carefully once all the pressure is gone.
6. Final Touches:
Give the soup a good stir. Taste it and add salt and pepper to your liking. It’s always good to adjust the seasoning to fit your taste!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot in bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, sour cream, and extra crushed tortilla chips for a delicious crunch. Dig in and enjoy your hearty, flavorful Loaded Taco Soup!
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey or Beef?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great alternative and will still give you a delicious flavor. Just be sure to sauté it until fully cooked to avoid any pink bits.
How Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
If you enjoy a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or using a spicy taco seasoning. You can also top the soup with sliced fresh jalapeños before serving for an extra heat boost!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes! This soup freezes well. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Is There a Vegetarian Version of This Soup?
Absolutely! You can use vegetable broth and substitute the meat with a mix of lentils, mushrooms, or extra beans. The result will still be hearty and satisfying!