Creamy Beef Taco Soup

Nothing warms you up quite like a bowl of creamy beef taco soup bubbling away in the slow cooker My family always asks for this easy weeknight dinner especially when the evenings turn chilly The combination of tender ground beef two kinds of beans sweet corn a little kick from green chilis and that creamy cheesy finish makes this pure comfort in a bowl

I whipped this up the first time for a quick game day dinner hoping it would stretch for a crowd My plan worked and even the picky eaters went back for seconds Now it has become my signature cozy soup whenever company visits

What You'll Need

• ground beef: look for eightyfive percent lean for the best balance of flavor and juiciness
• onion: adds sweetness and depth to the soup choose yellow or white for mellow flavor
• tomato sauce: builds the savory tomatoey base go for one with no added sugar if possible
• diced tomatoes or rotel: provide texture and a bit of spice rotel gives a mild kick
• diced green chilis: offer a gentle warmth and extra taco flavor
• corn: brings bursts of sweetness and color frozen or fresh works if you prefer
• kidney beans: hearty with a creamy center canned are convenient just rinse them well
• black beans: add earthiness and extra plant protein again make sure to rinse
• taco seasoning: one ounce or about three tablespoons this blends everything together with chili cumin and garlic
• ranch seasoning: the secret for tangy savory notes
• chicken broth: keeps it all cozy choose low sodium if you like
• cream cheese: smooths everything into a luxuriously creamy soup soften it so it melts in easily

How to Make It

Prep the Onion and Beef:

Finely dice a medium onion Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef and diced onions Cook gently stirring often until the onions are soft and the beef is browned throughout Be patient with the browning as it creates flavor Drain any excess fat from the skillet

Load the Slow Cooker:

Pour the browned beef and onions into your slow cooker Add the tomato sauce diced tomatoes green chilis drained corn both kinds of beans taco seasoning ranch packet and chicken broth Stir thoroughly so the seasonings dissolve and everything is evenly mixed Distribute the ingredients evenly so each spoonful later is packed with flavor

Let it Simmer:

Cover and set your slow cooker on low Heat gently for four to six hours allowing all the flavors to meld together and the beans to soften further Longer simmering brings out the best in the spices so do not rush this part

Add Cream Cheese:

About twenty minutes before you are ready to eat break the softened cream cheese into chunks and add them to the hot soup Stir until completely melted and creamy The soup should take on a rich smooth consistency with no lumps

Garnish and Serve:

Ladle the soup into big bowls Set out your choice of toppings such as olives tomato avocado cilantro corn chips and sour cream Let everyone build their own favorite bowl Fresh garnishes really brighten up this hearty dish

When I make this soup the cream cheese is my unbeatable trick That last stir always makes the flavors come alive My son calls it the magic part because suddenly the broth turns silky right before his eyes The rich creamy finish is what wins over everyone in my family

Storing Your Leftovers

This soup keeps well for up to four days in the refrigerator Store in airtight containers and reheat gently over low heat on the stove for best texture If you plan to freeze leave off fresh toppings and use freezer safe bags or containers Thaw overnight in the fridge then reheat

Ingredient Swaps and Tips

Swap ground turkey for beef for a lighter version Any canned beans work so pinto or cannellini would be great too If you love extra spice sub in a jalapeno or use hot rotel For a vegetarian twist try omitting the beef and doubling the beans

Serving Suggestions

This chunky soup is perfect with crispy corn chips or a side of warm cornbread I love piling on diced avocado and lots of cilantro Add a fresh salad with lime vinaigrette to balance the richness For casual parties provide a toppings bar so guests get creative

The secret to this soup is embracing all the toppings and letting each person create their own bowl Every time I make it the leftovers go quickly so do not expect any to stick around for long

Recipe FAQs

→ Can you use different beans?

Yes, you can substitute or mix kidney, black, or pinto beans to suit your taste or pantry staples.

→ How do I make it spicier?

Add jalapenos, use spicier diced tomatoes, or increase the amount of taco seasoning for extra heat.

→ Can this dish be frozen?

Yes, allow to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers and freezing for up to 3 months.

→ Is there a way to make it lighter?

Use lean ground beef, light cream cheese, and consider reducing or omitting sour cream in the toppings.

→ What are some tasty topping ideas?

Try additions like shredded cheese, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, or crispy corn chips for added flavor.

→ Can I prepare this on the stove instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, simmer all ingredients in a large pot on low heat until flavors meld, then stir in cream cheese before serving.