This Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup is a warm, comforting hug in a bowl! Packed with beef, beans, and lots of cheesy goodness, it’s a hit for dinner!
Honestly, who can resist a soup that’s basically a taco? I love to top it with crunchy tortilla chips and a dollop of sour cream. Yum! 🌮❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I typically use lean ground beef for less grease. You can swap it for turkey or even plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you don’t have them, kidney beans or pinto beans work well too. Just make sure they’re rinsed!
Corn: Canned corn is convenient, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can use fresh sweet corn or even frozen corn. It adds a nice pop of sweetness!
Canned Diced Tomatoes: The tomatoes with green chilies bring flavor and spice. If you want less heat, use plain diced tomatoes and perhaps add some bell pepper for color.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor, but feel free to experiment! Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can add a nice twist.
How Do I Achieve the Best Flavor in My Taco Soup?
Getting the right flavor balance is key! Here’s how to make it easy:
- Always brown the ground beef with the onions and garlic first. This will develop a nice base flavor that enhances your soup.
- Allow the spices (cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika) to toast slightly in the pot with the beef before adding other ingredients. This releases their oils and enhances their taste!
- Let the soup simmer covered for about 20 minutes. This helps meld the flavors together, making your soup more delicious.
- Finally, stir in sour cream and cheese gently, ensuring everything blends nicely without clumping. This makes the soup creamy and dreamy!
Enjoy the comforting taste of this taco soup on a cool evening!
Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream (plus extra for serving)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh diced tomatoes (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious taco soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, making it a perfect weeknight meal. The best part? It simmers on the stove while you relax, letting all the wonderful flavors meld together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the ground beef along with the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook everything together until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it off to keep your soup nice and healthy!
2. Combine Ingredients:
Next, add the drained and rinsed black beans, drained corn, diced tomatoes (including the juice), beef broth, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and some salt and pepper into the pot. Give it all a good stir to combine the flavors!
3. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Once it’s bubbling slightly, cover the pot and let it cook for about 20 minutes. This step allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully!
4. Make it Cheesy & Creamy:
After 20 minutes, reduce the heat and carefully stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream. Keep stirring until everything is melted and combined, creating that creamy, cheesy texture we love! Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, it’s time to serve! Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with extra shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, fresh diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro for a pop of color. If you like a bit of crunch, throw in some tortilla chips either on the side or crumbled right on top before digging in!
Enjoy your cozy, cheesy taco soup, perfect for any day of the week! It’s hearty and satisfying, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners or gatherings!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner substitute. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time a bit, as turkey may cook through faster than beef.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or use extra beans and vegetables for texture. Vegetable broth can replace beef broth, ensuring it stays flavorful!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until thoroughly heated.
Can I Freeze Cheesy Taco Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
