This creamy taco soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Filled with tasty ground beef, zesty taco seasonings, and beans, it’s perfect for cozy nights or game days.
I’ll confess, I sometimes add extra cheese on top—because who doesn’t love a gooey surprise? It’s super easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: Ground beef adds a rich flavor, but turkey is a leaner option. You could also use ground chicken or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
Onion: A small onion enhances the soup’s base flavor. If you’re short on time, chopped shallots or green onions work too. For a sweeter taste, try using red onions.
Taco Seasoning: While a packet is convenient, you can also mix your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. This can save money and let you control the spice level!
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and balance to the soup. If you’re dairy-free, try using cashew cream or a dairy-free cream cheese substitute!
How Do You Get Your Soup Extra Creamy?
For the best creaminess, it’s essential to properly incorporate the cream cheese. Here’s how:
- Ensure cream cheese is softened at room temperature; this helps it melt more easily.
- Add the cream cheese cubes gradually, stirring constantly until they completely dissolve into the broth. This prevents clumps!
- For an even creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender, then stir it back in.
Enjoy making this soup your own with these tips, and let your creativity shine!
How to Make Creamy Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 cup chicken broth or beef broth
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (plus extra for topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Diced fresh tomatoes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy taco soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and easy meal to whip up in about 35 minutes total. Perfect for busy evenings or when you want something comforting!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat and Onion:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the ground beef or turkey along with the diced onion. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring until the meat is browned and the onion is tender. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the pot.
2. Add the Taco Seasoning:
Sprinkle in the taco seasoning mix and stir it in. Cook for an additional minute to let the spices release their flavors.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the diced tomatoes (with all the juice), black beans, corn, and chicken or beef broth to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine the ingredients.
4. Make It Creamy:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Then, reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese cubes gradually, stirring continuously until it melts and fully blends into the soup for that rich, creamy texture.
5. Add Cheese and Season:
Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and everything is smooth. Taste your soup and add salt and pepper as needed for seasoning.
6. Simmer the Soup:
Let the soup simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors meld together and make it extra tasty!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When ready, serve the soup hot in bowls. Top with a dollop of sour cream, extra shredded cheese, diced fresh tomatoes, and chopped cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Taco Soup!
This comforting soup is perfect for chilly days or whenever you’re craving a hearty meal. Enjoy every spoonful!
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Beef or Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will keep the dish lighter. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll have a delicious meal!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this soup vegetarian by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth instead. You can also add extra beans or vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrients and texture.
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Just let it cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It should stay good for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.