This creamy taco soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! With hearty beans, spicy taco seasoning, and a splash of cream, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any dinner.
It’s super easy to whip up, and I love topping mine with crunchy tortilla chips and a sprinkle of cheese. Trust me, you’ll be going back for seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the base of the soup, bringing protein and flavor. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even use plant-based meat if you want a vegetarian dish.
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness and depth. If you’re short on time, try using onion powder instead. A shallot can also work well if you prefer a milder flavor.
Taco Seasoning: This spice mix brings that classic taco flavor. You can swap it for individual spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder if you don’t have a packet. Make your own mix for a fresher taste!
Cream Cheese: It makes the soup creamy and rich. If you want a lighter version, use Greek yogurt or sour cream. Nutritional yeast can be an excellent dairy-free option for creaminess.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using shredded cheddar for topping. You can mix it up with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan cheese instead.
How Do I Ensure My Soup Has a Perfectly Creamy Texture?
Getting that lovely creaminess in your taco soup is all about how you incorporate the cream cheese. Here’s how to make it smooth and delicious:
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before adding it to the soup. This helps it melt seamlessly.
- Add the cream cheese gradually. Start with small cubes and stir until it’s completely melted before adding more.
- Using a whisk can help if you’re struggling to get it mixed in smoothly. Whisking helps break down the cream cheese faster.
- If the soup is too thick after adding cream cheese, just add a little more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
These steps will make your soup creamy and comforting every time!
How to Make Creamy Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
- 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning mix
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, diced tomatoes, chopped fresh cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy taco soup will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat your stove to medium and add the ground beef. Cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Once it’s fully cooked, drain any excess fat. This keeps the soup from being too greasy.
2. Add Onions and Garlic:
Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Keep cooking them together for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onion softens and turns a bit translucent. This adds a wonderful flavor base to your soup!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Now, stir in the undrained diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, green chilies, taco seasoning, and chicken broth. Bring everything to a good boil, which gets those flavors mixing together nicely.
4. Simmer:
Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows all those tasty ingredients to meld together beautifully, making the soup rich and flavorful.
5. Add Creaminess:
Slowly add the softened cream cheese into the soup. Stir until it’s completely melted and blended in. This is what gives your soup that creamy, delightful texture.
6. Mix in Cheese:
Next, stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as you prefer.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot! Top each bowl with extra shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, diced tomatoes, and fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor. Enjoy it alongside tortilla chips for added crunch!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that still provides plenty of flavor. Just follow the same instructions, and you may want to add a touch more seasoning since turkey can be a bit milder in taste.
What If I Don’t Have Cream Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute mascarpone cheese or sour cream for a creamy texture. If you want a dairy-free option, try using a vegan cream cheese or nutritional yeast mixed with a bit of cashew cream for richness.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover creamy taco soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months; simply thaw and reheat over low heat when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
Definitely! To add some heat, consider including jalapeños, diced serrano peppers, or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can adjust the spiciness to your liking, so feel free to experiment!
