Heat the large pot over medium heat, then add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spoon as it begins to brown. Cook until no longer pink and the meat develops a rich, browned aroma, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the meat, stirring regularly. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the mixture develop a savory aroma.
Pour in the broth or water, then stir in the taco seasoning, blending everything together to coat the meat and vegetables evenly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to begin mingling.
Add the diced tomatoes, drained beans, and corn to the pot, stirring well. Increase the heat slightly to bring the soup to a gentle boil, which will help thicken and deepen the flavors.
Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors deepen and the soup thicken slightly, creating a hearty, cohesive texture.
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. If the beans or vegetables are too firm, simmer a few more minutes until they reach your preferred tenderness.
Once the soup is flavorful and thickened to your liking, ladle it into bowls and add your favorite toppings such as fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, or crushed chips for extra crunch and flavor.
Enjoy your hearty, customizable taco soup warm, with a side of warm tortillas or crusty bread if desired. The vibrant combination of spices and ingredients creates a comforting yet flexible dish.
