This creamy beef taco soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with tender beef, zesty taco flavors, and a rich creamy base that makes each spoonful delightful.
Honestly, who can resist a meal that feels like a party in your mouth? I love to top mine with crunchy tortilla strips and a sprinkle of cheese for extra fun!
Making this soup is super simple. Just brown the beef, mix in all the goodies, and let it simmer. Perfect for cozy nights in or when friends drop by unexpectedly!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef to keep it a bit healthier. You can swap in ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter option, or even a vegetarian meat substitute for a plant-based version!
Beans: Kidney beans add a nice texture, but pinto or black beans work well too. If beans aren’t your thing, you could just use more corn!
Cream Cheese: This gives the soup a wonderful creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter substitute, you could use Greek yogurt or a smart cream cheese alternative that’s lower in fat.
Cheddar Cheese: A must for pour-over cheese goodness! If you want to change it up, try pepper jack for a kick or even a dairy-free cheese product for a lactose-free meal.
How Do I Make the Soup Creamy and Flavorful?
Creating that creamy texture and flavor begins with the cream cheese. To ensure it blends well, make sure it’s softened before adding it to the pot.
- Mix in the cream cheese cubes slowly whilst stirring to help it melt evenly throughout the soup.
- Season to taste as flavors can vary especially with the taco seasoning. Start with less and add more to suit your preference!
Simmering time is key too! Letting the soup simmer allows all those flavors to get cozy together, making every bite delicious. Enjoy your cooking!
Creamy Beef Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
- 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning
- 4 cups beef broth
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sour cream and chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Additional shredded cheese for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and another 30 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need approximately 40 minutes from start to finish. Just enough time to get cozy and enjoy your kitchen aroma!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Remember to drain any excess fat after cooking so the soup isn’t too greasy!
2. Cook the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Stir everything together and let them cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant. This step builds up the flavor!
3. Stir in the Seasoning:
Now it’s time to add the taco seasoning. Mix it in well with the beef and vegetables, cooking for another minute until you smell the delicious spices.
4. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Next, add in the kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and diced green chilies. Pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine everything, then bring the soup to a boil.
5. Let it Simmer:
Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows all those delicious flavors to mingle together nicely!
6. Make it Creamy:
Gradually add the softened cream cheese, stirring consistently until it melts completely and makes the soup creamy and delicious.
7. Add Cheese and Season:
Finally, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and incorporated into the soup. Give it a taste and season with salt and pepper according to your liking.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Find a nice bowl, ladle in your soup, and top it off with a dollop of sour cream, extra cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro if you wish. Enjoy every hearty spoonful of this Creamy Beef Taco Soup!
Perfect for cozy family dinners or when you’re needing a little comfort food on a chilly night. Enjoy!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work perfectly in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times if needed, as turkey may cook a bit faster. Be sure to drain any excess fat after browning!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or even skip it altogether and add more beans or vegetables. You can use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for additional flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This soup also freezes well! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-friendly containers, and it can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add any veggies you love, such as corn, zucchini, or even spinach for added nutrition. Just be sure to adjust cooking times if you’re adding something that requires longer cooking.
