Creamy Beef Taco Soup

This Creamy Beef Taco Soup is a delightful dish that brings big flavors to your table in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, offering a creamy, smoky base enhanced by cheese and spices. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this soup fits all occasions wonderfully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a fast weeknight meal.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef, cream cheese, and spices creates a deliciously rich and satisfying flavor profile.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your bowl with toppings like cilantro, scallions, or sour cream to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults alike, this soup is sure to please every palate.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. This will streamline your preparation and make the cooking experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Allows for even heating and ample space for all ingredients to cook together seamlessly.
• Sharp knife: Ensures quick and safe chopping of vegetables, making prep work easier.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Guarantees accurate ingredient portions to achieve the best flavor balance.

Ingredients

For this tasty Creamy Beef Taco Soup, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 large green bell pepper (diced)
• 1 red onion (finely chopped)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1.2 pounds beef (85% lean)
• 2 tbsp chopped pickled jalapeños + 2 tbsp brine from jalapeños
• 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 3 cups crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (240 g/8.5 oz) kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 5 ounces corn kernels
• 2 tbsp chipotle sauce
• ½ cup cream (20%)
• 5 ounces cream cheese (at room temperature)
• 5 ounces shredded cheddar
• 1 tbsp chopped cilantro
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• Chopped cilantro for garnish
• Chopped scallions for garnish
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt for serving

How to Make Creamy Beef Taco Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Get all the prep done before you start cooking:
1. Finely chop the red onion.
2. Mince the garlic cloves.
3. Remove seeds and veins from the green bell pepper, then dice it.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Heat oil and butter in a large pot over medium-high heat:
* Add diced bell pepper; cook for about 3 minutes until softened.
* Stir in red onion and garlic; cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook Ground Beef

Add ground beef to the pot:
1. Break it into pieces with a spatula.
2. Cook until slightly browned, about 3 minutes.
3. Mix in spices, chopped jalapeños, and their brine; stir for about a minute.

Step 4: Add Broth and Vegetables

Pour in beef broth:
1. Bring the mixture to a boil.
2. Add crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, and corn kernels.
3. Bring back to a boil; then cover and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Final Touches

While simmering:
* Chop cilantro, grate cheddar cheese, and prepare any other toppings you desire.

Once ready:
1. Stir in chipotle sauce, cream, cream cheese, and grated cheddar until well combined.
2. Bring back to a boil; simmer for another 5 minutes. Adjust salt if needed.

Step 6: Serve Your Soup

Finish off with freshly ground black pepper and chopped cilantro:
Serve hot with your favorite toppings like sour cream or Greek yogurt. Enjoy your delicious bowl of Creamy Beef Taco Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Beef Taco Soup

Serving Creamy Beef Taco Soup can be a delightful experience with the right toppings and accompaniments. Here are some creative ways to elevate your bowl of soup.

Toppings

• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and brightens up the dish.
• Chopped Scallions: Scallions provide a mild onion taste that complements the soup’s richness.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt brings a creamy tanginess to each bite.
• Shredded Cheese: Extra shredded cheddar melts beautifully on top, enhancing the cheesy goodness.
• Pickled Jalapeños: For those who like it spicy, pickled jalapeños add heat and acidity.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Sweet or savory cornbread pairs well with the soup’s flavors and adds a comforting touch.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips make for a fun dipper and contrast nicely with the creamy soup.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices offer a rich texture that balances the flavors in the soup.

How to Perfect Creamy Beef Taco Soup

To achieve the best version of your Creamy Beef Taco Soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor profile significantly.
• Adjust Spiciness: Tailor the spiciness level by adding more or fewer jalapeños based on your preference.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer develops richer flavors, making it even more delicious.
• Experiment with Broths: Try different types of broth, such as chicken or vegetable, for varied taste profiles.
• Add More Beans: Incorporating additional beans can boost fiber content and make the soup heartier.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Beef Taco Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Beef Taco Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that complements the spices in the soup beautifully. Serve with tortilla chips for dipping.
2. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices adds another layer of flavor and makes for a filling side.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like zucchini and bell peppers bring freshness and color to your plate.
4. Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas filled with beans or vegetables are perfect for dipping into your soup.
5. Salad Greens: A simple mixed green salad drizzled with lime vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
6. Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds zing to every bite when served alongside.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Creamy Beef Taco Soup turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the prep work – Failing to chop ingredients beforehand can lead to uneven cooking. Always have your vegetables and spices ready to go.
• Using low-quality beef – Choosing fatty or tough beef can affect the overall texture. Opt for 85% lean beef for a better result.
• Neglecting seasoning – Forgetting to season adequately can make your soup bland. Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Not simmering long enough – Rushing the simmering stage can result in a soupy texture. Allow it to simmer for at least 5 minutes to meld flavors.
• Forgetting toppings – Skipping the garnishes can make the soup less exciting. Add fresh cilantro, sour cream, and scallions to enhance flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Creamy Beef Taco Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Beef Taco Soup

• Freeze in single-serving portions using freezer-safe containers.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Beef Taco Soup

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish, covering with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway, until hot.
• Stovetop – Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Beef Taco Soup.

How can I make Creamy Beef Taco Soup spicier?

You can add more pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce during cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference!

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative, providing a different flavor profile while keeping it delicious.

How do I thicken my Creamy Beef Taco Soup?

Add more cream cheese or let it simmer longer without a lid to allow some liquid to evaporate, thickening the soup naturally.

What toppings go well with Creamy Beef Taco Soup?

Popular toppings include chopped cilantro, sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, and sliced scallions for added freshness.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better after sitting for a day as the flavors meld together nicely.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Beef Taco Soup is not only quick and easy but also incredibly flavorful and customizable. Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Enjoy this comforting dish any night of the week!