Indulge in Comfort with Creamy Taco Soup
Experience the ultimate comfort food with this rich and flavorful recipe for Creamy Taco Soup, perfect for cozy nights in or entertaining a crowd.
When it comes to hearty and satisfying meals, few dishes can compare to a steaming bowl of taco soup. Packed with savory flavors and creamy textures, this recipe takes traditional taco soup to a whole new level of deliciousness. With the perfect balance of seasoned ground beef, zesty tomatoes, and creamy dairy goodness, this Creamy Taco Soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a bowl of pure comfort.
Ingredients:
Meat:
- 2 lbs Ground beef
Produce:
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 1 (7 ounce) can Mild green chiles
- 1 cup Onion
- 2 (14.5 ounce) cans Tomatoes
Canned Goods:
- 4 cups Beef broth
Baking & Spices:
- 1 tbsp Chili powder
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tbsp Ground cumin
Dairy:
- 1 (8 ounce) package Cream cheese
- 1/2 cup Heavy cream
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add minced garlic and chopped onion to the pot, and sauté until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the green chiles, canned tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, chili powder, salt, and ground cumin. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let the soup cook for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Cut the cream cheese into cubes and add it to the soup, stirring until it melts and incorporates fully.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously, until the soup is creamy and well combined.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or spices to taste.
- Serve the Creamy Taco Soup hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, or chopped fresh cilantro.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, black beans, or tofu crumbles for a vegetarian version of this soup.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and green chiles to suit your spice preference. For a milder soup, reduce the chili powder and use fewer green chiles. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
- Texture Variation: For a chunkier soup, add diced bell peppers, corn kernels, or black beans along with the other ingredients.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option. Replace the canned tomatoes with diced fresh tomatoes to reduce the carb content. Substitute the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream for a lower-carb alternative.
- Low Carb Variation: Reduce the amount of onion and tomato used in the soup to lower the carb count. Increase the amount of ground beef or add in extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to bulk up the soup without adding extra carbs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, this Creamy Taco Soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: Can I make this soup in advance? A: Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together. Simply prepare the soup as directed, allow it to cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? A: Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning as ground turkey has a milder flavor compared to beef.
Satisfy your cravings and warm your soul with a bowl of Creamy Taco Soup. Bursting with savory flavors and creamy textures, this comforting dish is a true crowd-pleaser that is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or served up for a casual gathering with friends and family, this hearty soup is guaranteed to leave everyone feeling nourished and satisfied. So, whip up a batch of this irresistible Creamy Taco Soup and get ready to savor every spoonful of this delectable comfort food.