This Creamy Beef Taco Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with seasoned beef, beans, corn, and velvety cream that makes it oh-so-delicious.
What I love most is how quick it is to make! Just stir everything together and let it simmer. No fancy skills needed—just a big spoon and an eager tummy! 🌮🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef adds rich flavor to this soup. You could use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even plant-based ground meat if you prefer a meatless dish!
Onion and Garlic: These build the base flavor. If you’re short on time, onion powder and garlic powder can work as quick substitutes, though fresh offers a better taste.
Red Kidney Beans: These provide heartiness. You can swap them with black beans or pinto beans for a different texture or flavor, depending on your preference.
Cream Cheese & Cheddar Cheese: Cream cheese makes the soup creamy, while cheddar adds sharpness. You can use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version or substitute with a dairy-free cream cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought is convenient, but you can mix your own using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika for more control over flavor.
How Do I Make My Soup Creamy and Rich?
The key to that luscious, creamy soup is incorporating the cream cheese. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Once your soup has simmered and developed flavor, lower the heat before adding cream cheese. This prevents it from curdling.
- Cut the cream cheese into cubes. This helps it melt evenly and blend smoothly into the soup.
- Stir constantly until it’s fully melted. This will ensure every bowl is creamy.
For an extra kick, you can add more cheese right at the end or even a splash of heavy cream. Enjoy crafting your creamy taco soup!
How to Make Creamy Beef Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Sour cream, for garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Creamy Beef Taco Soup requires about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes before you can dive into this hearty goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s fully browned, stirring occasionally. Once it’s brown, drain any excess fat to keep the soup from being greasy.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring, until the onion has softened and the kitchen smells fantastic!
3. Add Seasonings:
Stir in the taco seasoning and ground cumin. Cooking these for another minute helps bring out their flavors. It’ll smell amazing!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with juices!), and the beef broth. Give everything a good stir to mix those flavors together.
5. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup up to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together nicely.
6. Make It Creamy:
Lower the heat a bit more and stir in the softened cream cheese cubes. Keep stirring until the cream cheese melts and combines well, making the soup wonderfully creamy!
7. Add Cheddar Goodness:
Next, add in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it’s fully melted. Taste your soup and add salt and pepper as needed.
8. Serve It Up:
Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for that extra fresh touch.
9. Enjoy with Sides:
Serve your Creamy Beef Taco Soup hot, with tortilla chips on the side or with your favorite bread for dipping. It’s a cozy meal that everyone will love!
Enjoy your creamy, comforting Beef Taco Soup! 🌮🥣
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for beef, providing similar texture while being lower in fat. Just make sure to season it well, as turkey can be milder in flavor.
How Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce along with the taco seasoning. You can also try using spicy diced tomatoes for an extra kick!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water as needed.
What Should I Serve with This Soup?
This Creamy Beef Taco Soup pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, cornbread, or a side salad. You can also offer toppings like shredded cheese, avocado, or additional sour cream for a fully loaded meal!
