This taco soup features ground meat, vegetables, and a blend of spices resulting in a hearty, thick broth with a slightly smoky and spicy flavor profile. The dish is topped with fresh garnishes, presenting a vibrant, chunky appearance with a comforting warmth. Roasted vegetables and a splash of lime add depth and brightness to the final bowl.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss chopped bell peppers on a baking sheet and roast until slightly charred, about 15 minutes. This adds a smoky flavor and softens the vegetables for blending.
While vegetables roast, heat a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 8 minutes. Sauté until no pink remains and the meat develops a nice crust.
Add diced onion and minced garlic to the cooked meat. Stir and cook for about 3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant, filling your kitchen with a warm aroma.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to soften.
Remove the roasted peppers from the oven and chop them into smaller pieces. Add these to the soup along with the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.
Add corn kernels to the pot and stir. Continue simmering for another 5 minutes, so the flavors mix and the soup thickens slightly.
Squeeze fresh lime juice into the soup and stir well to brighten the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with salt and pepper.
To serve, ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for freshness and color.
Enjoy the hearty, layered flavors of this spicy taco soup, perfect for cozy evenings or quick weeknight dinners.
Notes
Roasting the peppers adds a smoky depth; feel free to adjust spice levels with more chili. For a vegetarian version, swap the meat for beans or extra vegetables.