This creamy beef taco soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with ground beef, beans, and a splash of cream, it’s super easy to make and perfect for chilly nights.
You might find yourself sipping straight from the pot—no judgments here! 🍲 I love to top mine with crunchy tortilla chips and a sprinkle of cheese. So tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. I prefer using 80/20 beef for a nice balance of flavor and lean meat.
Onion and Bell Pepper: Yellow or red onions work well. As for bell peppers, you can use any color you like. I often toss in some chopped jalapeños for extra spice!
Beans: Kidney beans are my go-to, but black beans or pinto beans are great alternatives too. Just make sure they’re well rinsed if canned.
Cream Cheese: You can swap this for sour cream for a tangy flavor or use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. Both keep the soup creamy!
Beef Broth: If you have vegetable or chicken broth, feel free to use that. It still adds depth to the soup.
How Do You Make the Soup Creamy Without Overcooking It?
To achieve a creamy texture, it’s essential to add the cream cheese at the right time. Here’s how:
- Once your soup has simmered and is flavorful, reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Add the softened cream cheese and let it melt gently into the soup. Stir consistently to avoid lumps.
- After the cream cheese is melted, then you can add shredded cheese for an extra creamy finish.
Taking this approach results in a smooth, velvety soup without overheating and curdling the dairy. Enjoy your delicious meal!
How to Make Creamy Beef Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, crushed tortilla chips, fresh cilantro, additional shredded cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy beef taco soup takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 30 minutes to cook. It’s a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for weekdays or cozy weekends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked. Make sure to break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat from the pot.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are softened and fragrant.
3. Add the Remaining Ingredients:
Now, stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes (with their juice), kidney beans, corn, and beef broth. Mix everything well. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together wonderfully!
4. Make it Creamy:
Once the soup has simmered, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until everything is melted and the soup is nice and creamy.
5. Season and Serve:
Give your soup a taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Now, it’s time to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a dollop of sour cream, some crushed tortilla chips, fresh cilantro, and any additional cheese if you like. Enjoy your hearty and delicious meal!
There you go! A cozy bowl of Creamy Beef Taco Soup that’s sure to warm your heart. Perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes for a leaner option and works well in this recipe. Just follow the same cooking steps as you would with ground beef!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can add extra beans for protein as well.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will even deepen as it sits! To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over low heat or in the microwave.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Sure thing! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.
