Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe

Cozy Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe For Fall

Chilly evenings call for a hearty ground beef taco soup that warms you from the inside out.

This vibrant dish blends rich flavors with comforting textures in every spoonful.

Cozy kitchens come alive with the aroma of simmering spices and melting cheese.

Mexican-inspired ingredients dance together, creating a symphony of taste that feels like a culinary hug.

Lean ground beef provides a protein-packed foundation for this soul-satisfying meal.

Each bite promises a delightful mix of zesty seasonings and creamy goodness.

Let this recipe become your new weeknight dinner superhero that conquers hunger and delights taste buds.

Why Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe Is So Satisfying

  • Whip Up Quick Comfort: This taco soup delivers delicious flavors in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners when you're craving something hearty and satisfying.
  • Customize with Ease: The recipe offers incredible flexibility, allowing you to adjust spice levels, swap protein types, or add extra toppings to match your family's taste preferences without complicated modifications.
  • Family-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will love the rich, cheesy texture and familiar taco-inspired flavors, creating a meal that brings everyone together around the dinner table with minimal cooking stress.
  • One-Pot Wonder: By using a single pot for cooking, this recipe minimizes kitchen cleanup, saves time on dish washing, and provides a convenient solution for home cooks seeking delicious meals without extensive preparation.

Ingredients Needed For Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe

Protein Base:
  • Ground Beef: Rich and hearty meat that forms the main protein of the soup, best with 80/20 lean to fat ratio for optimal flavor.
  • Onion, Garlic: Aromatic vegetables that add depth and savory notes to the ground beef base.
Canned and Pantry Ingredients:
  • Black Beans: Creamy legumes that provide extra protein and texture to the soup.
  • Corn: Sweet kernels that add color and a fresh burst of flavor.
  • Diced Tomatoes: Juicy base that creates the soup's liquid and adds bright acidity.
  • Tomato Sauce: Smooth sauce that helps thicken and enhance the overall tomato flavor.
  • Taco Seasoning: Spice blend that gives the soup its signature Mexican-inspired taste, homemade or store-bought works well.
Dairy and Finishing Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: Creamy ingredient that makes the soup rich and smooth, best when softened at room temperature.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheese that melts beautifully and adds a classic tangy flavor.
  • Sour Cream: Optional topping that provides a cool, tangy contrast to the warm soup.

Steps To Make Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown The Savory Beef

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef and break it apart while cooking, allowing the meat to develop a rich golden-brown color. Watch as the beef sizzles and transforms, releasing its delicious meaty aroma.

Step 2: Eliminate Excess Fat

Carefully drain away any lingering grease from the cooked beef. This ensures your soup remains light and perfectly seasoned without unnecessary oiliness.

Step 3: Awaken Aromatic Flavors

Introduce these ingredients to the pot:
  • Chopped onions
  • Minced garlic

Sauté the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and wonderfully soft. The kitchen will fill with an irresistible fragrance that promises a delectable meal ahead.

Step 4: Create Soup Base Magic

Add these delightful components:
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Beef broth
  • Taco seasoning
  • Black beans
  • Corn kernels

Stir everything together, allowing the ingredients to mingle and develop a harmonious flavor profile.

Step 5: Simmer To Perfection

Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup gently simmer. This slow cooking process helps blend all the incredible tastes into a comforting, mouthwatering experience.

Step 6: Garnish And Serve

Top each bowl with:
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Chopped cilantro
  • Sliced jalapeños (optional)

Enjoy your incredible taco soup that promises warmth, flavor, and pure comfort in every spoonful!

Helpful Tips For Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe

  • Lean Beef Selection: Choose ground beef with 85% lean meat for the perfect balance of flavor and reduced fat content.
  • Drain Thoroughly: After browning, carefully remove all excess grease to prevent a greasy texture in your soup.
  • Onion Chopping Hack: Dice onions uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent flavor distribution throughout the soup.
  • Seasoning Boost: Consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of chipotle powder to elevate the soup's depth of flavor.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld overnight.

How To Store Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe

  • Refrigerate leftover taco soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Ensure the soup cools completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Transfer to a clean container with a tight-fitting lid to maintain freshness.
  • When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly.
  • Pro tip: Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened during storage to restore its original creamy consistency.
  • Avoid freezing this particular soup, as the cream-based ingredients may separate and lose their smooth texture when thawed.

Perfect Pairings For Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe

  • Elevate with Crisp Tortilla Chips: Serve the soup with crunchy corn tortilla chips on the side, providing a perfect textural contrast to the creamy, rich soup. The salty chips will complement the hearty beef flavors and offer a delightful crunch.
  • Pair with Zesty Mexican Lager: A light, refreshing Mexican beer like Modelo Especial or Corona will cut through the soup's richness and enhance its spicy, savory notes. The beer's crisp finish balances the creamy cheese and ground beef perfectly.
  • Cool Down with Fresh Cilantro Lime Salad: Create a bright, tangy side salad with chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, mixed greens, and a light vinaigrette. This vibrant accompaniment will provide a refreshing counterpoint to the soup's richness and add a layer of zesty flavor.
  • Match with Citrusy White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio with citrus undertones will beautifully complement the soup's creamy texture and spicy elements. The wine's acidity will help cleanse the palate between each hearty spoonful.

New Takes On Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe

  • Hearty Chicken Taco Soup: Swap ground beef with shredded rotisserie chicken for a lighter protein option. The creamy texture remains consistent, while offering a quick weeknight meal alternative.
  • Vegetarian Bean Fiesta: Replace ground beef with black beans and mixed bell peppers. Boost protein by adding kidney beans and incorporate vegetable broth for enhanced flavor complexity.
  • Spicy Southwest Edition: Incorporate diced jalapeños and chipotle peppers to elevate heat levels. Add a splash of hot sauce and sprinkle extra cayenne pepper for adventurous taste buds craving intense flavors.
  • Lean Turkey Taco Soup: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a healthier protein choice. Maintain the creamy consistency and robust seasonings while reducing overall fat content.

FAQs On Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe

  • What makes this taco soup different from traditional taco recipes?

This soup combines the classic taco flavors with a creamy, cheesy base, creating a comforting one-pot meal that’s heartier than a typical taco dish.

  • Is this recipe spicy?

The soup has a mild to moderate heat level, but you can easily adjust the spiciness by choosing mild or hot taco seasoning and adding more or less chili powder to suit your taste preferences.

  • Can I make this soup if I'm watching my carb intake?

While the original recipe is carb-heavy, you can modify it by using low-carb alternatives like cauliflower rice or reducing the beans to make it more keto-friendly.

  • What type of ground beef works best for this recipe?

Lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) is ideal as it provides good flavor while not making the soup too greasy. You can also use ground turkey for a lighter option.

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Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe

Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 10 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Mouthwatering Taco Soup blends Mexican-inspired flavors with hearty ground beef and rich, melted cheese. Comfort meets zest in this quick, satisfying one-pot meal that brings family and friends together around a delicious, steaming bowl.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 1 lb (500 g) ground beef
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1.5 cups (150 g) shredded cheddar cheese

Vegetables and Beans:

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz/400 g) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 can (14 oz/400 g) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup (150 g) corn kernels
  • Sliced jalapenos
  • Diced avocado
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped

Seasonings and Liquids:

  • 1 packet (30 g) taco seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 4 cups (1 liter) beef broth
  • 0.5 cup (120 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Tortilla chips or strips
  • Sour cream
  • Extra shredded cheese

Instructions

  1. Sizzle ground beef in a spacious pot over medium-high heat, methodically crumbling the meat while it transforms from pink to a rich, caramel-brown color.
  2. Tilt the pan and carefully drain away excess fat, preserving the meat’s robust flavor profile.
  3. Introduce finely diced onions and minced garlic into the meat, allowing them to dance and soften, releasing their aromatic essence for approximately 3-4 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle in taco seasoning, stirring vigorously to coat every morsel of beef with a vibrant, zesty blend of spices.
  5. Pour in diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn, creating a colorful medley that promises depth and texture to the soup.
  6. Stream chicken broth into the pot, ensuring all ingredients are generously submerged and can mingle their flavors harmoniously.
  7. Reduce heat and allow the mixture to simmer gently, letting the ingredients marry and intensify their collective taste for 15-20 minutes.
  8. Fold in cream cheese and shredded cheese, stirring until they melt completely and transform the soup into a luxuriously creamy concoction.
  9. Taste and adjust seasonings, adding salt and pepper as needed to elevate the overall flavor profile.
  10. Ladle the steaming soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for an extra layer of indulgence.

Notes

  • For leaner results, opt for ground beef with lower fat content like 90/10 or ground turkey to reduce overall calories.
  • Ensure thorough draining of beef to prevent excess grease pooling in the soup, which can make the dish feel heavy and less appealing.
  • Sauté onions and garlic until they become translucent and fragrant, releasing their natural sweetness and enhancing the overall flavor profile of the soup.
  • Consider using a non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast iron pan to minimize sticking and make cleanup easier while cooking the ground beef.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 500
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 8 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Emily Morgan

Emily Morgan

Food Critic & Kitchen Tips Specialist

Expertise

Global Food Exploration & Critique, Simple Kitchen Hacks & Time-Saving Tips, Presentation & Plating Techniques, Culinary Research & Storytelling.

Education

New York University

  • Program: Bachelor’s in Journalism
  • Focus: Combined foundational journalism training with deep dives into global food traditions, restaurant criticism, and the cultural role of cuisine.

Emily Morgan has journeyed across the globe, collecting culinary secrets that turn everyday ingredients into impressive meals.

Based in Seattle and armed with a Journalism degree from NYU, she blends thorough research with a flair for presentation, ensuring every dish looks just as good as it tastes.

Focusing on fresh flavors, simple methods, and a bit of fun, Emily shows home cooks how to elevate their daily cooking without fancy gadgets or complex steps.

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