There’s nothing quite like the first spoonful of a warm, creamy soup on a chilly evening. The moment I lifted the lid on this Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup and caught the rich aroma swirling around my kitchen, I knew I had unearthed a treasure. With its hearty ground beef, bold taco seasoning, and velvety creaminess, this delightful meal transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable dining experience—perfect for cozy nights or casual gatherings with friends and family.
While life can get busy, this comforting bowl of goodness is a quick fix, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. And the best part? It’s highly customizable! Whether you prefer a little kick from spicy jalapeños or a milder touch with creamy cheese, you can easily tailor this soup to fit your tastes. Ready to dive into a recipe that warms the heart and satisfies the soul? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: This recipe whips up in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Comforting Flavor: With rich beef, spicy taco seasoning, and creamy cheese, every spoonful feels like a warm hug.
Totally Customizable: Love it spicy? Add more jalapeños! Prefer it lighter? Switch up the cream for milk or half-and-half.
Satisfying and Filling: This exuberant soup packs a punch, ensuring everyone leaves the table full and satisfied.
Ideal for Leftovers: Make a big batch and enjoy tasty leftovers for days; just store in the fridge and reheat whenever hunger strikes!
Embrace the joy of cooking and check out creative garnishing tips to elevate your presentation!
Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to make this flavorful soup!
For the Soup Base
- Ground Beef – The star protein that lends hearty flavor; consider ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Taco Seasoning – Infuses bold taste and spice; opt for homemade or store-bought to save time.
- Broth (beef or chicken) – Forms the rich soup base; vegetable broth is a great vegetarian choice.
For Creaminess
- Heavy Cream – Gives that luscious, velvety texture; substitute with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version.
- Shredded Cheese (e.g., cheddar) – Elevates flavor and creaminess; feel free to mix different cheeses for a unique taste.
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh Cilantro – Adds brightness and freshness; essential for a pop of color!
- Diced Jalapeños – Great for those who crave an extra kick; use fresh or pickled.
- Tortilla Chips – Perfect for crunch; they add texture and make the soup fun to eat!
- Sour Cream – Offers a cooling contrast and creamy richness; a dollop elevates every serving.
Get ready to enjoy a bowl of this Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup that is as comforting as it is customizable!
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup
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Brown meat: In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup light and flavorful.
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Mix seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for an additional minute, allowing the spices to bloom and enhance the meat’s flavor.
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Add broth: Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
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Incorporate cream and cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Mix until everything is melted and combined into a rich, creamy texture.
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Simmer again: Continue simmering for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the soup thickens slightly and reaches your desired consistency.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as fresh cilantro, jalapeños, or tortilla chips for a delightful crunch.
Optional: For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle a bit of lime juice over the soup before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup?
Cozy up your dinner table with delightful pairings that elevate the experience of this satisfying soup.
- Cornbread: Soft and buttery, cornbread adds warmth and sweetness that perfectly balances the soup’s savory spice.
- Tortilla Chips: Crisp and crunchy chips create a delightful contrast; they’re wonderful for dipping and adding texture to every bite.
- Simple Side Salad: A light salad with fresh greens and a tangy dressing brightens the meal, offering freshness amidst richness.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy, flavorful rice is the perfect canvas to soak up the delicious broth, enhancing your overall meal experience.
- Sour Cream: A cool dollop on top not only adds richness but also tempers the heat, making every spoonful an indulgent delight.
- Fresh Cilantro: Finely chopped cilantro sprinkled on top offers a burst of freshness that cuts through the creaminess and adds a vibrant touch.
- Spicy Pickled Jalapeños: For those craving extra heat, these tangy jalapeños bring a zesty kick that complements the hearty soup beautifully.
- Margaritas: Pair your meal with a classic margarita—the refreshing citrus notes harmonize perfectly with the rich, cheesy flavors in the soup.
- Chocolate Brownies: End on a sweet note! Fudgy brownies provide a rich dessert that rounds out the meal with a delightful, indulgent finish.
Make Ahead Options
This Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup is ideal for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the soup base—ground beef, taco seasoning, and broth—up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it covered in the refrigerator. To maintain its delicious flavor and creamy texture, wait to add the heavy cream and cheese until you’re ready to heat it up. When it’s time to serve, reheat the soup gently on the stove, incorporating the cream and cheese for that velvety finish. With this simple make-ahead strategy, you’ll have a comforting bowl of Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup ready in no time!
Expert Tips
- Perfect Seasoning Balance: Make sure to taste the soup before serving; add more taco seasoning gradually to avoid overpowering the flavors.
- Creamy Texture: For the best creamy consistency in your Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup, add cream slowly while stirring to achieve that luxurious texture.
- Prevent Clumping: Stir in shredded cheese off heat to prevent it from clumping and ensure a smooth, velvety finish to your soup.
- Taste Prior to Garnishing: Remember to taste the soup before adding garnishes; it helps you decide if you need more spice or creaminess.
- Adjust Cooking Time: If you want a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer; just keep an eye on it to prevent burning at the bottom.
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This soup is perfect for enjoying again after a busy day or a cozy night in.
Freezer: To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For the best results, thaw overnight in the fridge, then heat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore creaminess.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup in advance. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld and deepen!
Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Variations
Get ready to customize your soup with these exciting twists that enhance flavor and texture!
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Lighter Option: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a less indulgent, yet still creamy experience.
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Extra Spicy: Love the heat? Toss in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to ignite your taste buds.
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap out ground beef for lentils or finely chopped mushrooms for a hearty, meatless alternative.
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Cheese Explosion: Mix in a variety of cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for an enticing melty mix that keeps everyone guessing.
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Thicker Texture: Reduce the amount of broth or let the soup simmer longer; this will create a heartier base for those chilly evenings.
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Burst of Freshness: Add some lime juice right before serving to brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing twist.
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Herbaceous Boost: Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a fragrant touch that elevates the soup’s overall flavor profile.
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Creamy Avocado: For an extra layer of richness, top the soup with diced avocado. It provides a buttery texture and complements the spices beautifully.
Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of ground beef should I use for the soup?
I often recommend using ground beef with a good balance of fat, around 80/20, as it gives a nice flavor without being excessively greasy. You could also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option while still keeping that hearty feel in your Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup.
How should I store leftover soup?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation buildup, which could affect the texture.
Can I freeze Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then pour it into a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Squeeze out any excess air before sealing. It will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and then reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If your soup has thickened more than you’d like, don’t worry! Simply stir in a bit of extra broth or water gradually, heating it as you go. This will thin it out to your desired consistency, ensuring every bowl remains comforting and delightful.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version of your Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup, replace the ground beef with lentils or black beans, and use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth. The taco seasoning will still bring all the delicious flavors, making it a hearty, satisfying dish.
Are there any allergies I should consider?
When serving this soup, keep in mind that it contains dairy from the heavy cream and cheese, which can be problematic for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. You can substitute with non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk and vegan cheese to make it suitable for everyone!
Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Ready in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Mix until melted and combined.
- Continue simmering for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the soup thickens slightly.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings.