Creamy Taco Soup Recipe

Unbelievably Creamy Taco Soup Recipe That Warms Your Soul

Whipping up a delightful creamy taco soup always brings comfort to chilly evenings.

Savory aromas will dance through your kitchen as ingredients blend seamlessly.

Mexican-inspired flavors mingle with rich, velvety textures that promise satisfaction in every spoonful.

Hearty ingredients create a robust meal perfect for casual dinners or weekend gatherings.

Spices weave their magic, turning simple components into an extraordinary culinary experience.

Each bite delivers a warm embrace of zesty goodness that leaves you craving more.

You won’t be able to resist this irresistible soup that combines classic taco elements with creamy indulgence.

Creamy and Flavorful Taco Soup Recipe

  • Whip Up Quick Comfort
  • Customize with Creativity: Unleash your inner chef by mixing and matching toppings. From zesty jalapeños to cool sour cream, each spoonful becomes a personalized flavor adventure that keeps everyone excited.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Meal Solution: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game nights, this taco soup delivers bold flavors that appeal to both kids and adults. Its rich, creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
  • One-Pot Wonder: Minimize kitchen cleanup with this single-pot recipe that combines minimal effort with maximum taste.

What You Need for Creamy Taco Soup

Protein Base:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty meat that provides a rich and satisfying base for the soup.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds depth of flavor and creates a smooth liquid foundation for the soup.
Dairy Components:
  • Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds creamy texture and enhances the overall richness of the dish.
  • Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: Contributes to the luxurious and velvety consistency of the soup.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the soup, providing a sharp and tangy flavor profile.
Vegetable and Seasoning Mix:
  • Diced Onion, Garlic: Provide aromatic and foundational flavors to the soup base.
  • Taco Seasoning: Brings a zesty and authentic Mexican-inspired taste to the recipe.
  • Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: Adds a slight kick and bright, tangy notes to the soup.
  • Black Beans, Corn: Contribute texture, protein, and a subtle sweetness to the overall dish.
Finishing Touches and Optional Toppings:
  • Salt, Pepper: Helps balance and enhance the existing flavors.
  • Olive Oil: Used for initial cooking and sautéing of ingredients.
  • Sour Cream, Cilantro, Avocado, Crushed Tortilla Chips, Jalapenos: Optional toppings for added texture and personalization.

How to Make Taco Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: Brown the Protein

In a large pot, warm olive oil over medium heat.

Crumble ground beef into the pot and cook until fully browned.

Carefully drain away any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatic Vegetables

Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot.

Sauté until the onions become soft and translucent, releasing their sweet and savory flavors.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Incorporate these ingredients into the pot:
  • Taco seasoning
  • Diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • Black beans
  • Corn

Stir everything together to distribute the spices and blend the ingredients.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Liquid

Pour in these ingredients:
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Chicken broth

Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Add Creamy Richness

Slowly pour in heavy cream or half-and-half.

Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Finish with Cheesy Goodness

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese into the soup.

Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely, creating a luxurious, creamy texture.

Step 7: Season and Adjust

Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed to enhance the overall flavor profile.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the hot soup into bowls.

Offer these optional toppings for guests to customize their meal:
  • Sour cream
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Diced avocado
  • Crushed tortilla chips
  • Sliced jalapeños

Pro Tips for a Smooth and Rich Taco Soup

  • Remove as much fat as possible to prevent a greasy soup and ensure a cleaner, more concentrated flavor.
  • Customize heat by adding extra taco seasoning or a dash of cayenne pepper for those who enjoy a spicier kick.
  • Let the soup simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce liquid and create a richer, more substantial consistency.
  • Add cheese gradually and stir constantly to achieve a smooth, creamy texture without clumping.
  • Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or black beans for a delicious vegetarian version that maintains the soup's hearty character.

Variations to Customize Taco Soup Flavor

  • Vegetarian Taco Soup: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or diced tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a meat-free version.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk. Use dairy-free cheese alternative or omit cheese completely.
  • Spicy Southwest Variation: Add diced green chiles, extra jalapenos, and a dash of hot sauce. Include smoked paprika and chipotle powder for deeper heat.
  • Low-Carb Adaptation: Substitute corn and beans with cauliflower rice or diced zucchini. Use less broth and add extra protein like shredded chicken or ground turkey.

Serving Ideas for Taco Soup

  • Cozy Comfort Bowl: Serve this hearty soup in deep ceramic bowls to capture all the rich, creamy goodness and keep it warm while enjoying every delicious spoonful.
  • Taco Tuesday Twist: Transform your soup into a fun family meal by setting up a toppings bar with sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, and crispy tortilla chips for everyone to customize their bowl.
  • Bread Pairing Perfection: Complement the soup's creamy texture with warm, buttered cornbread or crispy garlic toast that helps soak up all the delectable flavors and adds a delightful crunch.
  • Movie Night Favorite: Make this soup a star attraction during movie nights or casual gatherings, serving it in large mugs that make it easy to hold and enjoy while relaxing with friends and family.

Storage Advice for Taco Soup

  • Transfer cooled soup to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, keeping flavors fresh and intact.
  • Pour soup into freezer-safe containers or ziplock bags, removing excess air, and freeze for 2-3 months without compromising taste or texture.
  • Pour soup into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed and steaming.
  • Gently reheat soup in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching and maintain creamy consistency, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore original thickness.

FAQs

  • Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, replace ground beef with plant-based meat or extra beans, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

  • Is this soup spicy?

The soup has mild heat from green chilies and taco seasoning. You can control spice level by choosing mild taco seasoning or adding extra jalapenos.

  • Can I freeze this taco soup?

Absolutely! Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly on the stovetop.

  • What if I don't have cream of chicken soup?

You can substitute with cream of mushroom soup or make a roux with flour and milk to create a similar creamy base.

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Creamy Taco Soup Recipe

Creamy Taco Soup Recipe


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4.8 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Mexican-inspired creamy taco soup delivers comfort in a bowl with robust spices and hearty ingredients. Delicious layers of flavor blend seamlessly, inviting you to savor each spoonful of this satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Meats:

  • 1 pound ground beef

Vegetables and Seasonings:

  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • 1 can (15 ounces or 425 grams) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 can (15 ounces or 425 grams) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 ounces or 425 grams) corn, drained

Dairy and Liquid Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 can (10 ounces or 284 grams) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) chicken broth
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

  • Sour cream
  • Chopped cilantro
  • Diced avocado
  • Crushed tortilla chips
  • Sliced jalapenos

Instructions

  1. Sizzle ground beef in a large pot over medium heat until thoroughly browned, then discard accumulated fat.
  2. Incorporate diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until onions become translucent and fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle taco seasoning into the pot, then fold in diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and corn kernels.
  4. Introduce cream of chicken soup and chicken broth, whisking until ingredients integrate smoothly.
  5. Stream heavy cream into the mixture, elevating the soup to a gentle simmer for 10-12 minutes.
  6. Gradually melt shredded cheddar cheese into the soup, stirring continuously to create a velvety consistency.
  7. Calibrate seasoning with salt and pepper, adjusting to personal taste preferences.
  8. Ladle the piping hot soup into serving bowls, garnishing with optional toppings like tangy sour cream, fresh cilantro, creamy avocado slices, crispy tortilla chips, or zesty jalapeños.

Notes

  • Drain ground beef thoroughly to prevent a greasy soup texture and ensure a cleaner, more appetizing dish.
  • Use low-sodium taco seasoning and broth to control salt levels, making the soup more health-conscious and customizable.
  • For a lighter version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles, creating a versatile protein option.
  • Experiment with different cheese varieties like pepper jack or Mexican blend to add unique flavor dimensions and personalize the recipe.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 335 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 670 mg
  • Fat: 23 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 20 g
  • Cholesterol: 65 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

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