How to make Easy Taco Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 1 bell pepper (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 24 ounces beef broth
- 28 ounces diced tomatoes (crushed tomatoes are fine too)
- Double recipe taco seasoning mix (or 2 store-bought packets)
- 4 ounces salsa
- 4 ounces softened cream cheese (light cream cheese may be used)
- 1 cup heavy cream (fat-free half and half can also be used)
- 2 cups cheddar cheese
Directions:
- In an Instant Pot or soup pot, sauté the ground beef, chopped onion, and bell pepper over medium-high heat. Cook until the beef is no longer pink.
- Add the minced garlic, beef broth, diced tomatoes, salsa, and taco seasoning. Stir to combine everything well.
- For Instant Pot: Set the pot to high pressure and cook for 2 minutes. Once the cooking cycle ends, allow the pressure to release naturally.
For Stovetop: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. - Add the very soft cream cheese, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese to the pot. Stir until the cheeses melt and blend into the soup.
- Adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve and garnish with your favorite taco toppings. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Taco Soup
This Easy Taco Soup is a perfect comfort food that combines the flavors of tacos in a warm, hearty soup. It is quick to prepare and simple to cook, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
The melding of flavors from the seasoned beef, fresh vegetables, and creamy ingredients delivers a satisfaction that everyone will love. You can add toppings like sour cream, avocado, or tortilla chips to enhance the flavor even more. Plus, it can be made in about 30 minutes, leaving you plenty of time to relax or spend with family.
Nutritional Benefits
This Easy Taco Soup provides several nutritional benefits:
- Lean Protein: Ground beef is a great source of protein that helps build and repair tissues.
- Vitamins: Onions and bell peppers are packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and other essential nutrients.
- Calcium: Cheddar cheese and cream add calcium to your diet, which is vital for bone health.
- Fiber: Tomatoes and any additional toppings, like beans or corn, also contribute fiber, aiding digestion.
With these ingredients, this soup not only pleases your taste buds but also supports a healthy diet, making it a well-rounded meal option.
What to Serve With Easy Taco Soup
You can serve Easy Taco Soup with a variety of complementary sides:
- Cornbread: A sweet, warm piece of cornbread pairs perfectly with the richness of the soup.
- Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips can be a fun and crispy addition.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with avocado can balance the meal beautifully.
- Rice: Serve over white or brown rice for added substance.
These side options allow you to customize your meal to suit your family’s preferences and make it even more filling.
How to Store Easy Taco Soup
Storing your Easy Taco Soup is a simple process. Here’s how to do it:
- In the Fridge: Allow the soup to cool, then place it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
- In the Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be kept in the freezer for 2-3 months.
When you want to enjoy the soup again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove until warmed through.
Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t Overcook the Beef: Make sure not to overcook the beef in the initial steps; you want it just cooked through so it remains tender.
- Taste as You Go: Seasoning is key. Taste the soup as it cooks and adjust seasonings based on your preference.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will enhance the flavor of your soup. Onions and bell peppers are essential for adding depth.
These small tips can prevent common mishaps and enhance the overall quality of your dish.
Variations
You can modify Easy Taco Soup to suit various tastes and dietary needs:
- Vegetarian Version: Use lentils or canned beans instead of ground beef for a hearty meatless option.
- Low-Carb Version: Replace cream cheese and heavy cream with low-fat yogurt or simply increase the amount of broth.
- Spicy Kick: For an extra kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce to spice it up.
These variations make it easy to enjoy this soup in different ways!
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of meat in this soup?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage if you prefer. Each will give the soup a unique flavor.
2. Is it possible to make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for later.
3. Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?
Yes, using store-bought taco seasoning is a great time-saver. Just ensure to taste the soup and adjust for salt and spices.
This Easy Taco Soup is sure to become a favorite in your household, offering comfort and flavors that will satisfy everyone. Enjoy every comforting bowl!
Easy Taco Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20) Lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 1 medium bell pepper (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 24 ounces beef broth
- 28 ounces diced tomatoes Crushed tomatoes can be used as well.
- 2 packets taco seasoning mix Or double the recipe for homemade seasoning.
- 4 ounces salsa
- 4 ounces softened cream cheese Light cream cheese may be used.
- 1 cup heavy cream Fat-free half and half can also be used.
- 2 cups cheddar cheese Shredded.
Instructions
Preparation
- In an Instant Pot or soup pot, sauté the ground beef, chopped onion, and bell pepper over medium-high heat until the beef is no longer pink.
Cooking
- Add the minced garlic, beef broth, diced tomatoes, salsa, and taco seasoning. Stir to combine well.
- For Instant Pot: Set to high pressure and cook for 2 minutes. Allow pressure to release naturally.
- For Stovetop: Bring mixture to a simmer, cover, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
- Add the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese. Stir until cheeses are melted and blended into the soup.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and serve with your favorite taco toppings.