Creamy Taco Soup Recipe

This Creamy Taco Soup is a rich, hearty, and flavor-packed dish that brings together the bold flavors of your favorite tacos in a warm, comforting soup. Made with seasoned ground beef, creamy broth, beans, and plenty of cheese, this easy one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights, game day gatherings, or whenever you need a satisfying bowl of comfort. It’s ready in under 30 minutes and is sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This taco soup takes all the best parts of a taco—seasoned meat, creamy cheese, and bold spices—and turns them into a cozy, comforting soup. It’s quick, easy, and customizable, with plenty of topping options to suit your taste. The cream cheese adds a velvety richness that makes every spoonful indulgent, while the taco seasoning brings just the right amount of heat and spice. Plus, it’s great for meal prep and tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

this Recipe

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra spice)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
• 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Toppings (optional):

• Crushed tortilla chips
• Diced avocado
• Fresh cilantro
• Sliced jalapeños
• Extra shredded cheese
• Lime wedges

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the ground beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add aromatics: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Season the soup: Add the taco seasoning, chili powder (if using), and stir until the meat is fully coated in the spices.
4. Add the main ingredients: Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and beef broth. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
5. Make it creamy: Lower the heat to medium-low, then stir in the cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated into the soup.
6. Finish with cheese and sour cream: Add shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream, stirring until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings like crushed tortilla chips, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, or extra cheese.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Low-carb version: Skip the beans and corn and add diced zucchini or bell peppers for a low-carb alternative.
• Chicken taco soup: Replace the ground beef with shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breast.
• Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños, extra chili powder, or a splash of hot sauce for a spicier soup.
• Vegetarian option: Use plant-based ground meat or extra beans and swap the beef broth for vegetable broth.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a leaner option and works just as well as ground beef in this recipe.

2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the ground beef first, then add all ingredients (except the cream cheese, cheddar, and sour cream) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Stir in the dairy ingredients before serving.

3. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese, vegan cheddar cheese, and a plant-based sour cream alternative.

4. Can I make it spicier?

Yes, add extra chili powder, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce to increase the heat level.

5. Can I substitute the cream cheese?

Yes, you can use heavy cream or plain Greek yogurt as a substitute for cream cheese, though the texture may be slightly different.

6. How do I thicken the soup?

Let the soup simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to help thicken the broth.

7. Can I use homemade taco seasoning?

Absolutely! Mix together chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper for a homemade seasoning blend.

8. What type of broth works best?

Beef broth provides a rich, hearty flavor, but chicken or vegetable broth can be used for a lighter version.

9. Can I serve this soup without toppings?

Yes, the soup is delicious on its own, but toppings like tortilla chips, cheese, or avocado add extra texture and flavor.

10. How can I reduce the sodium?

Use low-sodium broth, rinse canned beans and corn thoroughly, and opt for a low-sodium taco seasoning.

Conclusion

This Creamy Taco Soup is the perfect blend of bold taco flavors and creamy, cheesy comfort. It’s quick, easy, and customizable, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights, game day, or whenever you need something hearty and satisfying. With plenty of options for toppings and variations, this soup is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table—no tortillas required!

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