This Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with tasty ground beef, beans, and plenty of cheese to make it super creamy and delicious.
This soup is perfect on chilly days, and it’s so easy to make! I like to top mine with tortilla chips and a sprinkle of extra cheese—because, why not? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a hearty flavor without too much grease. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well too, just keep an eye on cooking time.
Black Beans: They add protein and a creamy texture. If you don’t have black beans, feel free to use kidney beans or pinto beans instead. It’ll still taste great!
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. If you prefer something milder, you can go for medium cheddar or even a blend of cheeses. Vegan cheese can also be used for a dairy-free option.
Cream Cheese: This makes the soup super creamy. If you’re in a pinch, you might substitute with Greek yogurt or coconut cream, but that will change the flavor profile a bit.
How Can I Make Sure My Soup is Flavorful?
Building the flavor in your soup is key. Start by browning the ground beef well. Don’t rush this! Let it get a nice golden brown before adding onions and garlic to the pan. This caramelizes the meat and adds depth.
- After you add the spices, let them toast for a minute. This enhances their flavor before adding liquids.
- Let the soup simmer! The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together. If you can, simmer for 30 minutes to an hour.
- Taste it before serving! You might find it needs a little more salt or spice, so always adjust to your preference.
Enjoy your Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup! It’s a cozy dish perfect for enjoying with family or friends on cold days.
Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted or regular)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned drained)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, cubed
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped for garnish
- Sour cream, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 20-30 minutes to cook, making the total time around 40 minutes. This is a quick and satisfying meal that comes together in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the ground beef over medium heat. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the pot.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent. This adds great flavor to your soup!
3. Add the Spices:
Now stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook this mixture for about a minute, stirring continually until you see the spices bloom and release their fragrant aromas.
4. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Add the black beans, diced tomatoes (including their juices), corn, and beef broth to the pot. Stir everything until well mixed and bring it all to a gentle simmer.
5. Let it Simmer:
Let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This will give it enough time to develop delicious flavors and aromas. You can adjust the heat if necessary to keep it at a gentle simmer.
6. Make It Creamy:
Now, reduce the heat to low. Carefully add the cubed cream cheese to the soup. Stir until it melts and is fully incorporated into the broth, creating a creamy texture.
7. Add the Cheddar:
Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until it’s melted and blended into the soup, making it even more comforting and cheesy.
8. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, take a moment to taste the soup. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed, based on your preference.
9. Serve with Toppings:
Now it’s time to serve your soup! Ladle it into bowls and top with extra cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro or green onions, and a dollop of sour cream. Serve with tortilla chips on the side for a fun crunch!
Enjoy your comforting bowl of Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup! It’s hearty, cheesy, and perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. Just ensure you cook it thoroughly and season it well, as these meats can be milder in flavor.
How Can I Make This Soup Spicy?
If you prefer a kick to your soup, consider adding diced jalapeños or an extra teaspoon of chili powder. You could also include some cayenne pepper or use spicy diced tomatoes for an additional heat boost!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up as the soup thickens when cooled.
