Creamy Taco Soup Recipe

Irresistible Creamy Taco Soup Recipe: Comfort in a Bowl

Comfort and flavor collide in this hearty creamy taco soup that brings zesty Mexican-inspired magic to your dinner table.

Packed with robust spices and tender meat, the soup delivers a rich, satisfying experience in every spoonful.

Ground beef simmers alongside aromatic seasonings, creating layers of deep, complex taste.

Creamy elements meld seamlessly with bold taco-style ingredients, promising a bowl that warms both body and soul.

Each serving bursts with vibrant colors and textures that make this recipe a standout meal.

Topped with fresh garnishes like cilantro, sour cream, and crispy tortilla strips, the soup transforms an ordinary evening into a delicious celebration.

You won’t be able to resist diving into this comforting, flavor-packed creation.

Ways to Remix Creamy Taco Soup Bowls

  • Vegetarian Delight: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or diced mushrooms for a hearty meat-free version that maintains rich, robust flavors.
  • Chicken Swap: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter protein option that keeps the soup's creamy texture and zesty taste.
  • Low-Carb Option: Substitute corn and beans with cauliflower rice and extra bell peppers to reduce carbohydrates while maintaining the soup's signature southwestern profile.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap cream cheese with coconut cream or cashew cream and use nutritional yeast for a creamy consistency that accommodates lactose-intolerant diners.

Serving Creamy Taco Soup at Parties or Dinner

  • Fiesta Bowl Topping Party: Create a DIY taco soup topping bar with shredded cheddar, crispy tortilla chips, fresh cilantro, and diced green onions for guests to customize their bowls.
  • Hearty Meal Companion: Serve alongside warm cornbread or jalapeño cheese biscuits to soak up the delicious, creamy broth and add extra comfort to the meal.
  • Fresh Zest Boost: Garnish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro to brighten the rich, creamy flavors and add a vibrant pop of color.
  • Protein Power-Up: Top with additional protein like diced grilled chicken or crumbled crispy bacon for extra texture and a protein-packed punch.

Tips for Storing Creamy Taco Soup Leftovers

  • Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Transfer soup to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Avoid adding toppings before freezing.
  • Pour soup into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.
  • Pour soup into a pot, add a splash of beef broth to prevent sticking, and warm over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

  • What makes this taco soup creamy?

The cream cheese is the secret ingredient that creates a rich, smooth texture and adds a tangy flavor to the soup.

  • Can I make this soup spicy?

Yes, you can increase the heat by using hot Rotel tomatoes or adding a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to suit your spice preference.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free taco seasoning and check that your broth is also gluten-free.

  • Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works perfectly in this recipe and maintains the same delicious flavor profile.

Creamy Taco Soup Bursting with Bold Flavor

  • Whip Up Comfort: Dive into a hearty soup that wraps you in warm, comforting flavors with minimal kitchen effort.
  • Customize with Ease: Personalize this crowd-pleaser by adding your favorite toppings like crispy tortilla chips, fresh cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream.
  • Family Dinner Champion: A one-pot wonder that satisfies picky eaters and hungry adults alike, making mealtime stress-free and delicious.
  • Quick Weeknight Lifesaver: Transform basic ingredients into a creamy, zesty meal that comes together faster than ordering takeout.

Must-Have Ingredients for Taco Soup Success

Protein Base:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty and flavorful meat that provides the main protein for the soup.
  • Onion, Garlic: Aromatic vegetables that add depth and savory notes to the beef base.
Canned and Pantry Ingredients:
  • Beef Broth: Creates the liquid base and adds rich, meaty flavor to the soup.
  • Rotel Tomatoes: Provides a zesty combination of diced tomatoes and green chilies for extra kick.
  • Black Beans: Adds protein, texture, and a creamy element to the soup.
  • Corn: Introduces sweetness and a pleasant crunch to the dish.
  • Taco Seasoning: Delivers classic Mexican-inspired spices and flavor profile.
Creamy and Topping Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: Gives the soup a luxurious, smooth, and rich texture.
  • Shredded Cheese, Sour Cream, Tortilla Chips: Optional toppings that enhance the soup's flavor and provide additional texture and garnish.

Stepwise Directions for Creamy Taco Soup

Step 1: Brown Savory Meat Mixture

Toss ground beef into a spacious pot.

Chop onions and mince garlic, then combine with beef.

Cook until meat turns rich brown and fully cooked.

Carefully drain away any extra fat from the pot.

Step 2: Spice Up the Meat

Sprinkle taco seasoning over the beef mixture.

Stir thoroughly to ensure every morsel gets coated with zesty flavors.

Step 3: Create Liquid Base

Add these ingredients to the pot:
  • Beef broth
  • Rotel tomatoes
  • Black beans
  • Corn

Bring the mixture to a gentle bubbling simmer.

Step 4: Blend Creamy Texture

Drop cream cheese into the simmering soup.

Stir continuously until cheese melts completely and blends smoothly into the liquid.

Step 5: Develop Rich Flavors

Allow soup to simmer slowly for 15-20 minutes.

This helps ingredients meld together and intensifies the overall taste profile.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Ladle hot soup into bowls.

Top with:
  • Shredded cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Crispy tortilla chips

Enjoy your hearty and comforting taco soup immediately.

Best Tips for Making Taco Soup at Home

  • Remove as much grease as possible after browning beef to prevent a greasy soup texture and reduce unnecessary calories.
  • Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for easier melting and smoother integration into the soup without lumps.
  • If soup seems too thick, gradually add more beef broth to reach desired texture; if too thin, let it simmer uncovered to reduce.
  • Replace corn and beans with cauliflower or zucchini chunks for a lower-carbohydrate version that maintains the hearty soup profile.
  • Store soup without toppings; cream-based soups can separate when thawed, so reheat gently and stir well to restore original consistency.
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Creamy Taco Soup Recipe

Creamy Taco Soup Recipe


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4.8 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty Creamy Taco Soup delivers Mexican-inspired comfort with rich, zesty flavors dancing through each spoonful. Spices and tender meat merge into a soul-warming bowl that beckons friends and family to gather around the table.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded cheddar cheese

Vegetables and Beans:

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 ounces/425 grams) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 ounces/425 grams) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 ounces/425 grams) corn, drained
  • 1 can (10 ounces/283 grams) diced tomatoes with green chilies

Liquids and Seasonings:

  • 1 packet taco seasoning mix
  • 1 can (8 ounces/227 grams) tomato sauce
  • 2 cups (480 milliliters) chicken broth
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown ground beef with onions and garlic in a large pot over medium-high heat, ensuring meat is thoroughly cooked and crumbled. Drain any accumulated fat.
  2. Sprinkle taco seasoning over the meat, stirring to distribute evenly and create a well-coated mixture.
  3. Add beef broth, Rotel tomatoes, black beans, and corn to the pot. Increase heat and bring contents to a gentle boil.
  4. Reduce heat to low and slowly incorporate cream cheese, stirring continuously until completely melted and soup becomes smooth and creamy.
  5. Allow soup to simmer for 15-20 minutes at low temperature, which helps meld flavors and slightly thicken the consistency.
  6. Ladle soup into serving bowls and garnish with generous sprinkles of shredded cheese, dollops of sour cream, and a handful of crunchy tortilla chips.

Notes

  • Opt for lean ground beef to reduce overall fat content without compromising flavor.
  • Soften cream cheese at room temperature beforehand for smoother melting and easier integration into the soup.
  • For a spicier kick, use hot Rotel tomatoes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper during cooking.
  • Make this recipe gluten-free by using certified gluten-free taco seasoning and checking bean and corn labels.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 414 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 830 mg
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 23 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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