This creamy taco soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It combines ground beef, beans, corn, and lots of tasty spices, all blended into a rich, velvety soup that’s super satisfying.
If you’re like me, you’ll love how it fills you up without too much fuss. Top it with cheese and a dollop of sour cream, and you’ve got a meal that everyone will be asking for seconds of! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: I like using ground turkey as it’s leaner, but ground beef gives a richer flavor. If you’re vegetarian, try textured vegetable protein or lentils for a hearty texture.
Canned Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you don’t have black beans, pinto beans or kidney beans work too. Just make sure to rinse them well to reduce sodium.
Corn Kernels: Canned corn is convenient, but frozen corn is also great. Just toss it in frozen; it will cook in no time! If corn isn’t your thing, leave it out or swap it for diced bell peppers.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: These are key for flavor. If you like it spicier, seek out fire-roasted tomatoes. You can also use regular diced tomatoes and add a bit of jalapeño or hot sauce.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and tang. Greek yogurt is a good substitute if you’re looking for a healthier option. For dairy-free, try coconut cream or a plant-based yogurt.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup Is Creamy?
To achieve that perfect creamy texture, it’s essential to mix the sour cream and cheese at the end off the heat. This prevents the dairy from curdling. Here’s how to do it:
- After simmering, take the pot off the heat before adding sour cream and cheese. This keeps the soup smooth.
- Stir in the sour cream gradually until it’s fully blended, then add the cheese slowly, mixing well to create that creamy base.
- Taste the soup after mixing; if it seems thick, a splash of chicken broth can help thin it out to your preferred consistency.
These steps ensure your soup is velvety and delicious every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Creamy Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 (10 oz) can enchilada sauce or tomato sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth
For Creaminess:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
For Flavor:
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Green onions, sliced
- Tortilla chips (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy taco soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, for a total of around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until it’s fully cooked. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Once cooked, drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the meat. Sauté them together for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and you can smell the garlic.
3. Add the Spices:
Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to coat the meat and onion with the spices. This step adds a ton of flavor!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to add in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with their juices), enchilada or tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle boil.
5. Simmer the Soup:
Once it boils, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully!
6. Cream it Up:
Take the pot off the heat and stir in the sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until fully combined and the soup is creamy and delicious!
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give your soup a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference!
8. Serve Hot:
Serve the soup hot in bowls and top it off with extra shredded cheese, chopped fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, and a dollop of sour cream for that perfect finishing touch.
9. Optional Crunch:
For added crunch, serve with tortilla chips on the side for dipping or crumbled directly on top of the soup!
Enjoy your comforting, rich, and flavorful creamy taco soup! It’s a perfect meal for any occasion!
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Beef or Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great lean alternative. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly, as with any ground meat. The flavor will still be delicious!
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply substitute the meat with extra beans (like kidney or chickpeas) and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It’ll still be hearty and flavorful!
What Should I Do If My Soup Is Too Thick?
If your soup turns out thicker than desired, just add a little more chicken or vegetable broth until you reach your preferred consistency. Stir well and heat gently until warmed through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.