Creamy Taco Soup (Printable View)

Rich and comforting soup with bold taco flavors, creamy texture, and hearty ingredients perfect for winter nights.

# What You'll Need:

→ Proteins

01 - 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
05 - 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice
06 - 1 can (14 ounces) sweet corn, drained
07 - 1 can (14 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
08 - 2 green onions, sliced for garnish

→ Dairy

09 - 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons heavy cream
10 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus more for garnish

→ Liquids

11 - 3 cups chicken or beef broth

→ Spices and Seasonings

12 - 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
13 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
14 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
15 - 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
16 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
17 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Optional Garnishes and Toppings

18 - Sour cream
19 - Fresh cilantro, chopped
20 - Crushed tortilla chips
21 - Lime wedges

# How To Make It:

01 - In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned and crumbly, approximately 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
02 - Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
03 - Stir in the taco seasoning, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until the spices become fragrant and bloom.
04 - Add the diced tomatoes with juice, drained corn, drained black beans, and broth to the pot. Stir well to combine and bring to a gentle boil.
05 - Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
06 - Lower the heat further, then stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts completely and the soup reaches a creamy consistency. Do not allow the soup to boil after adding the cream.
07 - Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions, additional shredded cheese, and your choice of optional toppings.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in under an hour but tastes like it simmered all day
  • The creamy element transforms familiar taco flavors into something cozy and new
  • Its endlessly adaptable based on what you have in your pantry
02 -
  • Never let the soup come to a rolling boil after adding the cream or it will separate and become grainy
  • The soup continues to thicken as it sits, so if you prefer it thinner, hold back some broth or add more before serving
  • Taco seasoning brands vary wildly in saltiness, so always taste before adding additional salt
03 -
  • Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre shredded bags for smoother melting
  • Let the soup cool slightly before adding the cream to help it incorporate without separating
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