Name: Delicious Creamy Taco Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (85/15); 1–2 packages taco seasoning (depending on desired spice level); 1 small yellow onion, diced; 3 teaspoons garlic, minced; 1 jalapeño, minced (remove membrane and seeds for less heat); 1 Anaheim pepper, minced; 15oz can black beans, drained and rinsed; 15oz can diced tomatoes with green chiles; 15oz can corn, drained; 4 cups chicken broth; Zest of 1 lime; Juice of 1/2 lime (adjust as desired); 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano leaves; 4–8oz cream cheese, softened; Toppings (Optional): sour cream, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, avocado slices

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that is both hearty and creamy, the Creamy Taco Soup is a perfect option. This delightful soup combines the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine with a smooth, creamy texture that entices everyone at the dinner table. Not only does it deliver on taste, but it also comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings. The creamy base, combined with the spices of taco seasoning, creates a delightful fusion that warms your heart and soul.

One of the best parts about this Creamy Taco Soup is its versatility. Whether you prefer it spicier or milder, you can easily adjust the heat levels to your liking by varying the amount of jalapeño and taco seasoning you use. Add in your favorite toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro, and you have a dish that everyone will love. Not only is this soup great on its own, but it’s also a fantastic recipe to add to your meal-prepping roster, as it keeps well in the fridge for leftovers throughout the week.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Taco Soup

Flavorful: Bursting with the zesty flavors of taco seasoning and fresh lime, every spoonful is a treat.
Quick & Easy: This recipe can be made in about 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights.
Customizable: Adjust spice levels and toppings to suit your family’s preferences.
Comforting & Filling: Hearty ingredients like beef and beans make this soup incredibly satisfying.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before cooking this Creamy Taco Soup, prepare your kitchen and gather all necessary tools to streamline your cooking process. You will need a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot to accommodate all the ingredients. It’s also helpful to have a cutting board and sharp knife for chopping onions, garlic, and peppers.

Make sure you have your measuring spoons handy for accurate seasoning and an adjustable measuring cup for liquids. This will ensure that you achieve the perfect balance of flavors without any guesswork. Having a wooden spoon or spatula will assist in stirring and breaking apart the beef as it cooks. Lastly, don’t forget your serving bowls and any toppings you want to use, as they’ll make for a beautiful presentation when serving the soup!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef (85/15)
1–2 packages taco seasoning (depending on desired spice level)
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 teaspoons garlic, minced
1 jalapeño, minced (remove membrane and seeds for less heat)
1 Anaheim pepper, minced
15oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
15oz can diced tomatoes with green chiles
15oz can corn, drained
4 cups chicken broth
Zest of 1 lime
Juice of 1/2 lime (adjust as desired)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
4–8oz cream cheese, softened
Toppings (Optional): sour cream, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, avocado slices

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes or until browned, ensuring you break it up into smaller chunks for even cooking. Any excess grease should be drained to avoid a greasy soup.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Next, stir in the diced yellow onion and minced garlic into the pot. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant, releasing their flavors into the beef.

Step 3: Incorporate Peppers and Seasoning

Add the minced jalapeño and Anaheim pepper to the mix. Then, introduce one package of taco seasoning. Stir the mixture well and allow it to cook for an additional 2 minutes. This step helps to enhance the flavors and aroma of your soup.

Step 4: Mix in Remaining Ingredients

Now it’s time to add the bulk of the ingredients. Pour in the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chiles, and corn. Add the chicken broth, lime zest, lime juice, kosher salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure each ingredient is well combined.

Step 5: Adjust to Your Taste

After mixing in the primary components, taste the soup. Depending on your preference, you might want to add more taco seasoning, salt, or lime juice at this stage. This recipe is all about making it perfect for your palate!

Step 6: Add Cream Cheese

Turn the heat to medium, and add the softened cream cheese to the pot. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely and integrates into the soup, creating a rich, creamy texture.

Step 7: Simmer and Serve

Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows all the delicious flavors to meld beautifully. Once done, ladle the soup into bowls, and serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, and avocado slices.

Variations

Protein: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat-free alternative such as lentils for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, to enhance the nutritional value and flavor.
Spices: Experiment with different spices or add a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick!

Cooking Notes

Be sure to drain and rinse black beans and corn to remove excess sodium before adding them to the soup.
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend part of the mixture before adding the cream cheese. This will create a creamier base.

Serving Suggestions

Top with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream for a classic touch.
Serve with a side of tortilla chips or crusty bread for dipping.

Tips

For a more intense flavor, prepare the soup a day in advance; allowing it to sit overnight can enhance its taste.
Using low-sodium chicken broth helps control the soup’s saltiness, especially if you’re adding toppings.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup is great for meal prep! You can easily prepare it a day or two in advance, and it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make this soup vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with lentils or black bean crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What are some good toppings for this soup?

Some excellent toppings include avocado slices, fresh cilantro, crushed tortilla chips, or a sprinkle of lime juice for added freshness.

Can I freeze the Creamy Taco Soup?

Yes! You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months in an airtight container. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Creamy Taco Soup is not just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with warm, comforting flavors that evoke feelings of home and happiness. By combining easy-to-find ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, it’s an ideal dish for anyone looking to satisfy their cravings or impress their family and friends. Whether you enjoy it on a chilly evening or serve it at a family gathering, this soup is bound to be a hit. We encourage you to experiment with variations and share your personal touches. Don’t forget to comment below with your favorite toppings or modifications!