Creamy Taco Soup (with Ground Beef): A Comforting One-Pot Favorite

When it comes to hearty meals that deliver big flavor with minimal effort, few dishes can compete with Creamy Taco Soup (with Ground Beef). This dish is the perfect marriage of bold Mexican-inspired spices, rich creaminess, and a comforting soup base that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, hosting friends, or prepping for cozy leftovers, this recipe guarantees satisfaction.

Imagine a bowl filled with tender beef, smoky spices, creamy broth, and hearty beans—all topped with crispy tortilla chips, gooey cheese, and a squeeze of lime. This soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a crowd-pleasing experience.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Taco Soup (with Ground Beef)

• Bold Flavor Fusion – A blend of taco seasoning, garlic, and green chiles creates irresistible depth.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 40 minutes using simple pantry staples.
• One-Pot Wonder – Minimal dishes mean less cleanup and more enjoyment.
• Customizable – Easily adapt to your taste with protein swaps or spice levels.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable ingredients without compromising flavor.
• Kid-Approved Comfort – Creamy texture and cheesy toppings make it a family hit.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Stores beautifully and reheats even better.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what makes this soup so irresistible. Each ingredient serves a purpose in building flavor, texture, and creaminess.

• 2 tbsp olive oil – Adds richness and prevents sticking.
• 1 yellow onion, diced – Provides a sweet, aromatic base.
• 5 fresh garlic cloves, minced – Essential for depth and warmth.
• 4.5 oz can green chiles, mild – Mild heat with a tangy punch.
• 1 lb ground beef – The star protein that makes this soup hearty.
• 1 oz taco seasoning packet, mild – A quick way to balance spices.
• ½ tsp chili powder – Boosts smoky undertones.
• ½ tsp onion powder – Enhances savory flavor.
• ½ tsp garlic powder – Reinforces garlicky goodness.
• 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (no salt added) – Bright acidity to cut through richness.
• 15 oz can black beans – Adds protein and fiber.
• 4 cups chicken broth – Forms the base of the soup.
• 4 oz cream cheese – The magic ingredient for a silky, creamy broth.
• Salt & pepper – To balance and enhance flavors.

Substitutions & Variations

• Swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles.
• Use fire-roasted tomatoes for smoky depth.
• Replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier finish.
• For spice lovers, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect pot of Creamy Taco Soup (with Ground Beef).

1. Sauté Aromatics
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and green chiles. Cook until fragrant and softened, about 3–4 minutes.
2. Brown the Beef
   Add ground beef along with taco seasoning, chili powder, onion powder, and garlic powder. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until beef is browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Build the Base
   Stir in diced tomatoes, black beans, and chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Uncover & Reduce
   Remove the lid and simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes. This allows flavors to concentrate and the soup to thicken slightly.
5. Make it Creamy
   Reduce heat to low. Add cream cheese in small chunks, stirring until fully melted and incorporated into the broth. The soup will take on its signature creamy consistency.
6. Final Seasoning
   Taste and adjust with more salt, pepper, or extra spices if desired.
7. Serve & Enjoy
   Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, crushed tortilla chips, fresh lime juice, and cilantro.

Pro Tips for the Best Results

How do I make Creamy Taco Soup (with Ground Beef) thicker?

Simmer the soup uncovered a bit longer, or mash some of the beans against the pot to naturally thicken the broth.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Brown the beef with onions and garlic first, then transfer everything (except cream cheese) to a crockpot. Cook on low for 6–8 hours, stir in cream cheese before serving.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes! This soup freezes beautifully. Just cool completely, portion into airtight containers, and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

Best Ways to Serve

Pair your Creamy Taco Soup (with Ground Beef) with:

• Warm cornbread muffins
• Fresh guacamole and tortilla chips
• Simple Mexican side salad

👉 You might also love our Quick Spaghetti Salad with Italian Dressing or Mexican Street Corn Salad as fresh accompaniments.

Nutrition (per serving, ~6 servings)

• Calories: 340
• Protein: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 6g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Vitamin A: 15% DV
• Vitamin C: 20% DV
• Calcium: 15% DV
• Iron: 20% DV

Storage & Leftovers

• Refrigerator – Store in airtight containers up to 4 days.
• Freezer – Freeze in single-serve portions up to 3 months.
• Reheating – Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth or milk if needed to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese or coconut milk for creaminess.

What toppings go best with this soup?

Shredded cheddar, sour cream, avocado, jalapeños, fresh cilantro, and lime juice all add layers of flavor and texture.

Is this soup spicy?

It’s mild as written, but you can adjust heat by using spicy green chiles, hot taco seasoning, or extra chili flakes.

Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?

Definitely—ground chicken or turkey makes the dish lighter while still keeping the creamy texture.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your taco seasoning is gluten-free. Double-check packaging if needed.

Variations

• Cheesy Taco Soup with Beef – Add extra shredded cheddar or Velveeta for a cheesier version.
• Creamy Mexican Taco Soup – Use chipotle peppers in adobo for smoky flavor.
• Vegetarian Version – Replace beef with lentils or extra beans, and use vegetable broth.
• Low-Carb Option – Skip the beans and add more peppers, zucchini, or riced cauliflower.
• One-Pot Creamy Hamburger Taco Soup – Use classic ground beef with additional corn for texture.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a big bowl of Creamy Taco Soup (with Ground Beef). With its rich, creamy base, smoky spices, and hearty beans, this dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nourishment. Best of all, it’s flexible, budget-friendly, and universally loved.

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