This Taco Soup with Ground Beef is a quick, hearty, and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Packed with bold taco flavors, creamy broth, and just the right amount of spice, it’s a dish the whole family will love.
Top it with cheese, sour cream, or your favorite taco toppings to make it even more irresistible. Let’s dive into this comforting and easy recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple pantry staples.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or extra ingredients like beans or corn.
- Full of Flavor: The combination of taco seasoning, Rotel tomatoes, and cream cheese creates a rich and flavorful soup.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base of the soup.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes with chilies: For a spicy, tangy kick.
- 4 oz cream cheese: Makes the soup creamy and rich.
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth or stock: Thins the soup to the perfect consistency.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds savory depth.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: The star seasoning that gives the soup its taco-inspired flavor.
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Diced avocado
- Sliced jalapeños
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Tortilla chips or strips
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Ladle for serving
How to Make Taco Soup with Ground Beef
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes).
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for another 3–4 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Add the Seasonings
- Stir in the taco seasoning and garlic powder, coating the beef and onions evenly.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Broth
- Pour in the can of Rotel tomatoes (with their juices) and the chicken broth. Stir to combine.
Step 4: Incorporate the Cream Cheese
- Cut the cream cheese into small cubes and add it to the pot. Stir until the cream cheese melts completely into the soup, creating a creamy base.
Step 5: Simmer
- Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Serve and Top
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite taco-inspired toppings, like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, or tortilla chips.
Tips for the Best Taco Soup
- Add Veggies: Toss in corn, black beans, or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
- Adjust Spice: Use mild or spicy Rotel tomatoes to control the heat level.
- Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for a lighter protein option.
- Make It Thicker: For a thicker soup, simmer it longer or stir in 1–2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with water.
What to Serve with Taco Soup
- Tortilla Chips or Cornbread: Perfect for scooping up the soup.
- Mexican Rice: A hearty side to complement the flavors.
- Side Salad: Keep it light with a fresh green salad topped with avocado and lime.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the ground beef and onions first, then transfer to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours.
Can I use a homemade taco seasoning?
Absolutely! A mix of chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and garlic powder works perfectly.
Is this soup keto-friendly?
Yes, if you skip the tortilla chips and opt for low-carb toppings, this soup is keto-friendly due to its high-fat, low-carb ingredients.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 17g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Sugar: 4g
Final Thoughts
This Taco Soup with Ground Beef is everything you love about tacos in a comforting, creamy soup. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s quick to whip up and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a keeper.
If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your photos on Instagram or Pinterest, and let me know what toppings you added.
Happy cooking! 🌮🥣✨