This Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s loaded with beef, beans, and plenty of cheesy goodness, making it a hearty meal for any day.
I love how it’s super easy to make; just cook the beef, toss in the ingredients, and let it simmer. Perfect for a chilly evening, or when your taco cravings hit! 🌮😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of your soup! You can use lean ground beef for a lighter option or ground turkey if you prefer a leaner meat. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or a mix of beans instead.
Beans: Black beans and kidney beans add protein and fiber. If you’re in a hurry, canned beans are perfect. You can switch them for pinto beans or white beans if that’s what you have on hand.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives the soup a nice cheesy flavor. If you want to mix it up, Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack adds a little kick! Vegan cheese is a great alternative for a dairy-free option.
Spices: Cumin and chili powder ensure your soup is packed with flavor! If you’re looking for a little less spice, reduce the chili powder. For an earthy taste, add a pinch of oregano.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup is Creamy and Cheesy?
To get that delicious cheesy texture, gently stir in the shredded cheddar cheese just before serving. Make sure to cook it over low heat after adding the cheese to avoid burning it on the bottom.
- Start by melting the cheese into the warm soup on low heat, stirring constantly.
- Don’t let the soup boil once the cheese is added; this keeps it creamy!
Enjoy your comforting bowl of cheesy ground beef taco soup! Perfect for any day of the week!
Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup sour cream, for topping
- 1 avocado, diced, for topping
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Tortilla chips or strips, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, so in just 40 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful and cheesy dish that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep the soup from being too greasy.
2. Add Aromatics:
Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Stir them into the beef and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. The kitchen will start to smell amazing!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to bring in the big flavors! Stir in the diced tomatoes (with all their juice), diced green chilies, black beans, kidney beans, and beef broth. This mix is where the magic happens!
4. Season the Soup:
Sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika (if you like a little smoky flavor), and add salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together well, ensuring that all the flavors mingle.
5. Simmer:
Bring the pot to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes. This step allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Add Cheese:
Time for the best part! Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and makes the soup creamy and rich. Don’t rush this; let it melt into the delicious broth.
7. Serve with Toppings:
Grab some bowls and ladle in your comforting soup. Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream, some diced avocado, a sprinkling of fresh cilantro, and a handful of tortilla chips or strips for that perfect crunch.
8. Enjoy!
Serve hot and enjoy your cheesy ground beef taco soup! It’s perfect for sharing with family or just treating yourself to a cozy meal.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute and will work just as well in this soup. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as turkey may cook a bit faster than beef.
What Can I Substitute for Beef Broth?
If you want to make this soup lighter or vegetarian, you can use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. It will still provide a great flavor to your taco soup!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over low heat or microwave it until heated through. You may want to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up as it tends to thicken upon standing.
Can I Freeze This Taco Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove!
