This creamy beef taco soup is a warm and cozy dish that brings the flavors of tacos right to your bowl! Packed with ground beef, beans, and cheese, it’s super filling.
When I make this soup, I can hardly wait for dinner—it’s that good! I love to top it with crunchy tortilla chips and a sprinkle of cilantro for extra flair. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef to balance flavor and fat. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well too, just be sure to adjust cooking time.
Onion and Garlic: These two add lots of flavor! I prefer yellow onions because they’re sweeter, but you can substitute with red onions or shallots if you like a milder taste.
Kidney Beans: They add heartiness, but black beans or pinto beans are great alternatives if you prefer. Both bring a different flavor that complements the soup nicely.
Cream Cheese: For creaminess, this is key! If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a vegan cream cheese or coconut cream for a similar texture.
Cheddar Cheese: While I love sharp cheddar, feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicy kick!
How Do I Make Sure My Soup is Creamy and Well-Blended?
To get that perfectly creamy texture, it’s crucial to add the cream cheese slowly. Here’s how:
- After simmering the soup, lower the heat before adding cream cheese. This helps it melt evenly.
- Cut the cream cheese into cubes to make it easier to blend into the soup.
- Stir gently and consistently until fully melted. If it looks like it’s clumping, keep stirring, adding a bit more broth if needed to loosen it up.
- Finally, incorporating the shredded cheese gradually adds that cheesy goodness without clumping.
This method will help ensure your creamy beef taco soup is smooth and delicious!
How to Make Creamy Beef Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy beef taco soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. Overall, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick, hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat to medium and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, stirring to break it up. Once it’s no longer pink, drain any excess fat if needed.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
3. Mix in the Spices:
Stir in the taco seasoning, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well so the beef and onions get coated with the spices.
4. Add the Liquids and Beans:
Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), kidney beans, and corn. Give it a good stir to combine all the ingredients.
5. Bring to a Boil:
Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, so all the flavors can come together.
6. Make it Creamy:
Lower the heat again and add in the cubed cream cheese. Stir until it melts and blends into the soup, creating that creamy texture.
7. Add Cheddar Cheese:
Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and becomes creamy. This will enhance the flavor and richness of the soup.
8. Final Taste Check:
Give the soup a taste and add any extra seasonings like salt or pepper according to your preference.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up your creamy beef taco soup hot, and don’t forget to add any optional toppings you like—diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, chopped cilantro, extra cheese, or crunchy tortilla chips for that added crunch!
Enjoy the comforting warmth and rich flavors of your delicious creamy beef taco soup!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that it might not have as rich a flavor, so you can add an extra pinch of seasoning if desired.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or sautéed mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and opt for beans and corn as your protein source!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick.
What Can I Serve with This Soup?
This soup is hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, cornbread, or a simple green salad. Feel free to add extra toppings like avocado, cheese, or sour cream for a complete meal!