If you are craving a comforting, hearty, and absolutely irresistible meal, you have to try this Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe. It combines savory ground beef seasoned with classic taco spices, creamy cheese, and a medley of colorful ingredients that burst with flavor in every spoonful. The perfect balance of rich, spicy, and fresh elements makes this soup a crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again, whether for a family dinner or a casual get-together.

Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward, yet they come together to create layers of flavor and texture that make this soup truly special. Each one plays an essential role, from the tender ground beef providing protein, to the creamy cheeses adding indulgence and silkiness, and the veggies bringing brightness and heartiness.

1 lb ground beef: The hearty base for the soup, browned for rich flavor.
1 small onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Gives a lovely aromatic punch.
1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning): Essential for authentic taco flavor.
1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies: Adds color, tang, and a subtle spicy kick.
1 (15 oz) can black beans (drained and rinsed): Provides texture and protein boost.
1 (15 oz) can corn kernels (drained): Brings natural sweetness and body to the mix.
2 cups beef broth: The flavorful liquid base that ties everything together.
1 cup heavy cream: Introduces luscious creaminess for extra richness.
8 oz cream cheese (softened and cubed): Melts into the soup creating a silky texture.
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and gooey cheesiness.
Salt and pepper (to taste): To enhance all the flavors naturally.
Optional toppings: Sour cream, cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and tortilla chips for extra flair and texture.

How to Make Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating a bit of oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef and cook until nicely browned, breaking it up with your spoon as it cooks. This step builds the foundation of flavor. Once browned, drain excess fat before adding your chopped onion. Let it soften for about 3 to 4 minutes, then stir in the minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant—this brings out that warm, inviting aroma that makes soup so comforting.

Step 2: Season and Simmer with Fresh Ingredients

Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the beef and onion mixture, stirring well to coat every bit with that zesty spice blend. Next, add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, corn, and beef broth. Stir to combine all those wonderful colors and tastes, then bring the pot to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about 10 to 15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully into one harmonious bowl of goodness.

Step 3: Add the Creamy Cheeses

This is the magic moment where your Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe really comes alive. Stir in the heavy cream and cubed cream cheese, gently coaxing the cream cheese to melt smoothly into the soup, adding silky texture and a subtle tang. Then sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts completely, creating that luscious cheesy finish everyone loves. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, or add a bit of cayenne or jalapeños for extra kick if you like to spice things up.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish with Your Favorites

Now that your soup is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, ladle it into bowls and get ready to top it off with your chosen garnishes. These little extras take the soup to the next level, adding freshness, crunch, and a dash of cooling or fiery contrast depending on your mood.

How to Serve Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Classic toppings like sour cream add a cool tang that balances the richness, while fresh cilantro brings a pop of herbal brightness. Sliced jalapeños introduce heat and crunch, and crushed tortilla chips add a satisfying crispy texture. Don’t be shy about mixing and matching these to create your perfect bowl.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with a side of warm cornbread or crispy tortilla chips for dipping. Simple green salads or Mexican-style rice can round out your meal, making it feel complete without overshadowing the star of the show—the soup itself.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this soup in mini bread bowls or hollowed-out bell peppers for a festive look. You can also layer it in clear mugs and garnish with vibrant toppings, turning this easy meal into an Instagram-worthy dish sure to impress your friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer your leftover soup to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the next day’s lunch even more delicious.

Freezing

This Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe freezes well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Remember that the texture might change slightly due to the cream cheese and cream, but it will still taste fantastic.

Reheating

Defrost the soup overnight in the fridge for best results. Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to make sure the cheese blends back in smoothly. If it feels too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Keep the cheese and cream if you eat dairy, or substitute with dairy-free alternatives for a vegan version.

Is there a way to make this soup less creamy?

You can reduce the amount of heavy cream and cream cheese or skip them altogether if you prefer a brothier, lighter soup. Just keep in mind it won’t have that signature silky texture that makes this recipe so special.

What type of cheddar cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar provides the best balance of flavor and melting texture. However, mild cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend can be nice alternatives if you want something less intense or more authentic to taco flavors.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, fresh diced tomatoes can be used, but you might want to increase the seasoning slightly as canned tomatoes often come with added salt and flavor. Fresh tomatoes will give a brighter, fresher taste to your soup.

How spicy is this soup by default?

The soup has a gentle warmth from the taco seasoning and green chilies but is not overly spicy. You can easily adjust spice levels by adding extra jalapeños or cayenne pepper, or keep it mild for kids and those sensitive to heat.

Final Thoughts

Making this Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm, tasty hug on a chilly day. It’s simple to prepare, packed with comforting flavors, and endlessly versatile. Give it a try for your next dinner and watch it become one of your all-time favorites that friends and family ask for again and again!

Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 12 reviews

Author: Naomi
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

This Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines savory ground beef, tender beans, corn, and a rich, cheesy broth infused with taco spices. Perfect for a comforting meal, it’s easy to prepare and topped with your favorite garnishes for an extra kick.

Instructions

Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a little oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
Sauté the Onion: Drain excess fat from the pot. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add Taco Seasoning: Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef and onion mixture and stir well to coat everything evenly with the spices.
Add Tomatoes, Beans, Corn, and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, corn kernels, and beef broth, stirring everything together to combine.
Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 10-15 minutes so the flavors meld together.
Add Cream and Cream Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and cubed cream cheese. Continue stirring until the cream cheese melts smoothly into the soup, creating a rich and creamy texture.
Melt in Cheddar Cheese: Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it is fully melted and incorporated into the soup.
Season to Taste: Season with salt and pepper according to your preference. For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or additional diced jalapeños.
Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and crumbled tortilla chips for an extra burst of flavor and texture.

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of beef broth or let it simmer uncovered longer.
If you prefer a spicier soup, consider adding a diced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce.
This soup can be made ahead and reheated; it often tastes better the next day as flavors develop.
Serve with warm tortillas or cornbread for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Simmering and Sautéing
Cuisine: Mexican-American