Can I make creamy taco soup on my stovetop?

Absolutely! Brown the beef and vegetables, add broth and seasonings, simmer covered for 30 minutes, then stir in the cream, cheeses, and salsa until blended.

Can I use ground chicken or ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground chicken or turkey can be substituted. While it changes the beefy flavor, it remains a delicious option.

Is beef taco soup keto?

Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly with only 5.5 grams of net carbs per serving, as it contains no beans, corn, or rice.

How can I lower the fat in this recipe?

You can lower the fat by using half and half or low-fat half and half, fat-free cream cheese, and leaner ground beef, turkey, or chicken.

Are store-bought taco seasoning packets gluten free?

It varies by brand. Always check the label to ensure the store-bought seasoning is gluten-free.

Why is my taco soup so watery?

Wateriness can occur if too much broth was added or if frozen vegetables were used, which release extra moisture.

Creamy Beef Taco Soup - Easy Dash Recipes

Name: Creamy Beef Taco Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef (80/20); 1 small onion (chopped); 1 bell pepper (chopped); 2 garlic cloves (minced); 24 ounces beef broth; 28 ounces diced tomatoes; double recipe taco seasoning mix (or 2 store-bought packets); 4 ounces salsa; 4 ounces softened cream cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups cheddar cheese

This creamy beef taco soup is a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. It combines bold taco seasonings with a rich, cheesy base to create a filling dinner the whole family will enjoy.

List of ingredients

2 pounds ground beef (80/20) – provides a rich flavor base.
1 small onion (chopped) – adds aromatic depth.
1 bell pepper (chopped) – any color works for mild sweetness.
2 garlic cloves (minced) – for essential pungent flavor.
24 ounces beef broth – the liquid foundation of the soup.
28 ounces diced tomatoes – crushed tomatoes are also a suitable alternative.
Double recipe taco seasoning mix – or use 2 store-bought packets.
4 ounces salsa – adds tang and complexity.
4 ounces softened cream cheese – ensures a creamy texture; light cream cheese is an option.
1 cup heavy cream – can be replaced with fat-free half and half.
2 cups cheddar cheese – use mild, medium, or sharp depending on preference.

step-by-step instructions

Brown the meat and vegetables: In an Instant Pot or a large soup pot, saute the ground beef, chopped onion, and bell pepper over medium-high heat until the beef is no longer pink.
Combine base ingredients: Add the minced garlic cloves, beef broth, diced tomatoes, salsa, and taco seasoning. Stir the mixture thoroughly to combine all flavors.
Cook the soup: For Instant Pot users, set the pot to high pressure for 2 minutes and allow the pressure to release naturally. For stovetop users, bring the liquid to a simmer, cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 30 minutes.
Incorporate dairy: Stir in the very soft cream cheese, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheeses have completely melted and the soup is smooth and blended.
Final touch: Adjust the seasoning to your preference, serve hot, and garnish with your favorite taco toppings.

Customizing Your Taco Soup

Using Leaner Meat Alternatives

While 80/20 ground beef is recommended for flavor, you can use 90/10 lean beef to reduce the fat content. If using lean beef, you may need to add a tablespoon of oil to the pot for sautéing. For a lighter protein option, ground turkey or ground chicken can be used, though the flavor will be milder than beef.

Adding Hearty Vegetables

To increase the nutritional value and volume of the soup, incorporate extra vegetables. Diced zucchini, yellow squash, or riced cauliflower blend well with the taco seasoning and texture. Add these during the sautéing phase or at the start of the simmering process to ensure they are tender.

Including Beans and Corn

If you are not following a low-carb or keto diet, adding beans and corn provides great texture. One can of black beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed, adds protein and fiber. A cup of frozen or canned corn kernels adds a sweet contrast to the savory beef and spices.

Boosting the Heat Level

For those who prefer a spicier dish, you can customize the heat. Stir in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce during the simmering stage. Freshly sliced jalapenos added at the end as a garnish also provide a sharp, spicy kick.

Reducing Overall Fat Content

To create a lower-calorie version, substitute heavy cream with fat-free half and half and use light cream cheese. You can also reduce the amount of cheddar cheese by half. When using leaner ground beef, be sure to brown the meat first and drain the excess fat before adding the vegetables and liquids.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Fresh Toppings for Extra Flavor

Enhance the soup by adding a variety of fresh garnishes on top of each bowl. Sour cream adds a cool creaminess that balances the spice of the taco seasoning. Freshly diced avocado or guacamole provides healthy fats and a smooth texture that complements the beef.

Adding Crunchy Elements

Texture is key to a great soup experience. Top your bowls with crumbled tortilla chips or corn chips for a classic crunch. For those sticking to a keto diet, baked cheese crisps serve as a perfect low-carb replacement for chips.

Savory Side Dish Pairings

While this soup is a complete meal, it pairs well with light sides. A fresh green salad with an avocado-based dressing provides a crisp contrast to the rich soup. For a more filling meal, serve the soup alongside warm cheese quesadillas or toasted corn tortillas.

Storage and Preservation

Refrigeration Guidelines

Once the soup has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the soup in a glass container helps maintain the flavor and prevents odors from absorbing into the liquid.

Freezing Dairy-Based Soups

Freezing soups that contain cream and cheese can be tricky because the fats may separate during the thawing process. While this does not affect the taste, it can create a slightly curdled appearance. To fix this, whisk in a small amount of fresh cream or a pinch of cheese while reheating.

Best Reheating Methods

To reheat, place the soup in a pot over low to medium heat. Stir frequently to prevent the cheese and cream from scorching on the bottom of the pan. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge, add a splash of beef broth or water to restore the original consistency.

Preparation Tips for Success

Choosing the Right Cheese

For the best melt, use a block of cheddar cheese and grate it yourself. Pre-shredded cheeses are coated in cellulose to prevent clumping, which can hinder the melting process and lead to a grainier texture. Freshly grated cheese integrates more smoothly into the creamy base.

Preparing Cream Cheese for Mixing

Ensure the cream cheese is completely softened to room temperature before adding it to the pot. If the cream cheese is too cold, it may form clumps that are difficult to stir out. You can soften it quickly by microwaving it for 15-20 seconds in short bursts.

Sautéing Meat Correctly

When browning the beef, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the meat sears rather than steams. Cook the beef until it is no longer pink and has developed a light brown crust for maximum flavor. This initial browning process creates a depth of taste that enhances the final soup.

Managing Salt Levels

If you are using a homemade taco seasoning or a store-bought packet, be mindful of the sodium content. Taste the soup after the simmering process but before adding the cheeses. Adjust the salt at the end to avoid over-seasoning, as the broth and cheese already contain salt.

Common Questions and Troubleshooting

Why is my taco soup too watery?

Wateriness usually occurs if too much broth was added or if frozen vegetables released extra moisture. To thicken the soup, allow it to simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can stir in a small cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to achieve a thicker consistency.

Can I use ground chicken or ground turkey?

Yes, ground chicken or turkey are excellent substitutes for beef. While you lose the specific richness of beef, the soup remains delicious and becomes leaner. You may want to add a small amount of tomato paste to maintain a deep color and robust flavor profile.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

This recipe is naturally keto-friendly as it avoids beans, corn, and rice. It focuses on high-fat ingredients like heavy cream, cream cheese, and cheddar, which fit into a ketogenic diet. Be sure to check your taco seasoning packet for any hidden sugars or cornstarch.

Are store-bought seasonings gluten-free?

It varies by brand, so always check the ingredient label on the packet. Some brands use flour or modified food starch as a thickener, which may contain gluten. If you need a guaranteed gluten-free option, mixing chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder is a safe alternative.

What is the difference between taco soup and tortilla soup?

The primary difference is the addition of fried corn tortilla strips in tortilla soup, which are often simmered in or topped on the dish. Tortilla soup is also more commonly made with chicken. Taco soup typically uses beef and is often creamier in texture due to the addition of cheeses and cream.