Description
This Easy Creamy Taco Soup is a flavorful and comforting dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Ground beef or alternative proteins are simmered with a blend of taco seasoning, tomatoes, and broth, then enriched with smooth cream cheese for a rich, creamy texture. Topped with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese and tortilla chips, this soup brings all the zest and warmth of tacos in a hearty bowl.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, or vegetarian option)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheese
- Fresh cilantro
- Tortilla chips
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain off any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned meat. Cook and stir for about 5 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent, building a flavorful base.
- Add Seasonings and Tomatoes: Stir in the packet of taco seasoning along with the entire can of diced tomatoes including their juices. Mix well to combine all flavors evenly.
- Pour in the Broth: Pour in the 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat and let it cook for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Add Cream Cheese: Cut the softened cream cheese into chunks and gradually stir it into the simmering soup. Continue stirring until the cream cheese has fully melted, creating a smooth and creamy soup base.
- Serve: Ladle the hot taco soup into bowls. Top with your choice of shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, crunchy tortilla chips, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added richness and texture. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Notes
- Use turkey or a vegetarian protein substitute to make the soup lighter or meat-free.
- For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while simmering.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat easily on the stovetop or microwave.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure the taco seasoning is certified gluten-free.
- This soup freezes well; cool completely before transferring to airtight containers for up to 2 months.
