Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup

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When cozy comfort meets bold Tex-Mex flavors, you get this irresistibly Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly night, bursting with savory spices, melty cheese, and tender ground beef. Each spoonful is packed with flavor and richness, making it a weeknight hero in our home.

This soup isn’t just tasty, it’s incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for game night, a lazy Sunday dinner, or meal-prepping for the week, this taco soup delivers. Plus, it’s super customizable. Add your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro for extra flair. One pot, minimal fuss, maximum comfort.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup, you’ll want to gather a few essential kitchen tools that not only make the process easier but also enhance the final flavor and texture.

• Large Dutch Oven or Stock Pot – This is the workhorse of this recipe. It allows for even cooking and enough space to simmer all the ingredients without overflowing.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula – These help break up the ground beef and stir without scratching your cookware.
• Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board – For chopping onions, garlic, and any additional vegetables or toppings.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – Precision in seasoning is key, especially when it comes to taco spices and broth ratios.
• Ladle – A deep ladle is perfect for serving this hearty soup straight into bowls without spilling.

Having the right tools ensures your soup cooks evenly and your ingredients blend together in creamy harmony. It also makes cleanup simpler, which is a bonus after enjoying such a flavorful meal.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup

Each ingredient in this taco soup serves a delicious purpose. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Ground Beef – The hearty, protein-packed base of the soup that delivers that signature taco flavor.
• Yellow Onion – Adds aromatic sweetness and depth to the soup.
• Garlic Cloves – Essential for building flavor and giving the broth a savory punch.
• Taco Seasoning – Brings all the classic Tex-Mex spice with cumin, chili powder, and paprika.
• Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (Rotel-style) – Adds tangy brightness and just a hint of heat.
• Corn Kernels – Offers a pop of sweetness and crunch.
• Black Beans – Brings texture and makes the soup extra filling.
• Cream Cheese – The secret to the creamy texture and subtle tanginess.
• Cheddar Cheese – Melts into the broth to create that cheesy, velvety richness.
• Beef Broth – Forms the flavorful liquid base for the soup.
• Heavy Cream – Adds luscious creaminess that balances the spices.

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How To Make the Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Base Ingredients

Stir in the taco seasoning, then pour in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn, and black beans. Mix everything together to coat in seasoning.

Step 4: Pour in the Liquids

Add the beef broth and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 5: Add Creamy and Cheesy Elements

Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese until it melts completely. Then, gradually mix in the cheddar cheese and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the soup is smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or more taco seasoning if needed. Simmer for another 5 minutes, then it’s ready to serve.

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Serving and Storing Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup

This soup is best served hot in generous bowls, topped with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, diced tomatoes, fresh cilantro, and crispy tortilla strips. If you want to go all out, serve it alongside warm cornbread or a few slices of avocado toast.

Got leftovers? Even better. This soup stores like a dream. Let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and it reheats beautifully on the stovetop or in the microwave. For longer storage, freeze it in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this soup?

It has a mild kick thanks to the diced tomatoes with green chilies, but you can always adjust the heat by adding jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicier taco seasoning.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then add all ingredients (except cheese and cream) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3. Stir in the cheeses and cream just before serving.

What toppings go best with taco soup?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, green onions, jalapeños, tortilla chips, and lime wedges for brightness.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or even shredded chicken makes a great leaner substitute.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your taco seasoning and broth are gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure.

How do I make this soup thicker?

Let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer, or mash a few of the beans to naturally thicken the texture without changing the flavor.

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Want More Soup Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved this Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup, you’re going to want to check out these other cozy, flavor-packed favorites:

• Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup for a hearty Italian-style comfort meal.
• Hearty Creamy Ditalini Soup for Chilly Nights when you want something filling but still easy.
• Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup that brings together richness and spice.
• Hearty Vegetarian Tortellini Soup if you’re craving a meatless but satisfying dish.
• Louisiana Seafood Gumbo for a southern-inspired bowl bursting with bold flavors.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime: Life With Olivia on Pinterest.

And don’t forget to let me know how yours turned out. Did you load it up with toppings or keep it classic? Did you swap the beef for turkey? Share your tips and questions below – I love hearing how you make these recipes your own!

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