You know those nights when you just need something easy, cozy, and guaranteed to make everyone at the table happy? That’s when my Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe steps in to save the day.
It’s creamy. It’s cheesy. It’s got that perfect Tex-Mex kick. And the best part? It comes together in under 30 minutes — which means less time stirring, more time catching up on everyone’s day.
As someone who grew up on a Texas farm, I’ve always had a soft spot for anything with ground beef, cheese, and a little spice. This recipe reminds me of those nights when we’d huddle around the kitchen table with bowls of something hearty, laughter filling the air, and not a leftover in sight.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe
- Quick & easy: Dinner’s ready in 30 minutes flat.
- Family-approved: Even picky eaters ask for seconds.
- Budget-friendly: Made with pantry staples you already have.
- Customizable: Add more spice, switch up the beans, or make it lighter — your call.
- Comfort in a bowl: Creamy cheese and taco flavor wrapped in one warm hug of a soup.
It’s like combining your favorite taco night with your favorite cheesy soup — what could be better?
What Does Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Taste Like?
Imagine the creamy comfort of mac and cheese meeting the bold, zesty flavor of tacos. The seasoned beef gives it richness, while the cream cheese and cheddar melt right into the broth, creating a velvety texture that coats every spoonful.
It’s hearty but not heavy — the kind of soup that warms you from the inside out. And that touch of green chilies? Just enough to keep things interesting without sending anyone running for the milk.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe
To make this delicious Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup, you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or try my homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, cilantro, sliced jalapeños, tortilla chips
(Need a similar recipe? Try my Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef for another comforting favorite!)
How to Make Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe (Step by Step)
Making this Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe couldn’t be easier — and once you’ve done it once, it’ll become one of those “go-to” weeknight wonders that your family asks for again and again. The best part? You don’t need fancy equipment, just a sturdy soup pot, a wooden spoon, and about half an hour.
Let’s walk through it together, step by step:
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef and Build the Flavor Base
Start by grabbing a large soup pot or Dutch oven. Drizzle in a bit of oil (olive or vegetable oil both work great) and set the heat to medium. Add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned and no pink remains. This step builds the deep, savory base of your Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe.
If you’ve ever made my Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef, you’ll know that browning the meat first brings out that wonderful caramelized flavor — it’s what separates a good soup from a great one.
Once browned, carefully drain off any excess grease. This keeps the soup rich but not oily.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics — Onion and Garlic
Now, toss in your chopped onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. You’ll start to smell that comforting “home-cooked dinner” aroma filling your kitchen.
Next, add 2 cloves of minced garlic, stirring for just 30 seconds. Garlic cooks fast — you want it fragrant, not burned.
This simple combination of onion and garlic builds the flavor foundation that makes the rest of this Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe so irresistible.
Step 3: Add Taco Seasoning for That Signature Tex-Mex Flavor
Here comes the flavor magic — sprinkle in 1 packet of taco seasoning (or about 2 tablespoons of your own homemade blend). Stir well to coat the beef and onions completely.
If you love homemade seasoning blends, try the one from my Homemade Chicken Taco Soup — it’s full of warm chili, cumin, and smoky paprika.
Cook the seasoning for 1–2 minutes to “wake up” the spices. You’ll notice the mixture getting rich and fragrant. That’s exactly what we want — deep, layered flavor from the very beginning.
Step 4: Add the Canned Ingredients — Tomatoes, Beans, Corn, and Broth
Next, add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, corn, and beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine.
These ingredients bring color, texture, and a little sweetness that balances the mild spice of the taco seasoning. The tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel) give that authentic Tex-Mex punch — a must in any Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe.
Once everything is mixed, bring the pot to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
Step 5: Simmer to Bring It All Together
When it starts to bubble, lower the heat and let the soup simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
This is where the flavors meld — the beef soaks up the seasoning, the beans soften slightly, and the broth thickens just enough. Take a moment to taste and adjust as you go. If you prefer it bolder, add a pinch of chili powder or a dash of cayenne.
It’s the kind of aroma that makes everyone wander into the kitchen asking, “Is dinner ready yet?”
(If you love soups that fill your home with that comforting scent, try my Slow Cooker Chicken Fajita Soup — it’s another crowd-pleaser!)
Step 6: Make It Creamy — The Best Part!
Now for what truly makes this recipe shine: that creamy, cheesy magic.
Turn the heat down to low and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Then, add 8 ounces of cream cheese (cubed), stirring often until it melts completely into the soup.
This step transforms your taco soup into a rich, velvety bowl of comfort. Take your time here — slow melting is key for that perfectly smooth texture.
Once the cream cheese has melted, sprinkle in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and stir until fully incorporated. The soup should be thick, creamy, and loaded with cheesy goodness.
Tip from my own kitchen: if you’re using pre-shredded cheese, toss it with a teaspoon of cornstarch before adding — it helps prevent clumping.
Step 7: Taste, Adjust, and Add Final Touches
Before serving, taste your soup. Add salt and pepper as needed. If you’re in the mood for a little extra heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper.
The beauty of this Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe is how flexible it is — you can tailor it to your family’s tastes every time.
Step 8: Serve It Up and Enjoy the Comfort
Ladle the soup into warm bowls and add your favorite toppings:
- A dollop of sour cream for tang
- Fresh cilantro for brightness
- Tortilla chips for that perfect crunch
- Extra cheese if you’re feeling indulgent
Set it down at the table and watch as everyone digs in with big smiles — it’s that kind of meal.
For another cheesy comfort dish that always disappears fast, check out my Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup — it’s every bit as cozy as this one.
Step 9: Optional — Make It Slow Cooker Friendly
If you’d rather let your Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe simmer away while you go about your day, you can absolutely make it in your slow cooker.
- Brown the beef and onions first (this adds essential flavor).
- Add all ingredients except the cream, cream cheese, and cheddar to the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours.
- In the last 30 minutes, stir in the cream and cheeses until melted and creamy.
This version tastes just as dreamy — and it’ll make your whole house smell incredible by dinner.
Final Thoughts on This Step-by-Step Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe
Every spoonful of this Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe delivers layers of comfort — from the tender beef to the melty cheese and the creamy, spiced broth. Whether you’re making it on a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday, it’s a recipe that feels like home.
And trust me, once you’ve made it once, it’ll earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.
If you enjoyed this, don’t miss my Ground Beef and Savory Cabbage Soup — it’s another hearty, budget-friendly recipe that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup
- For extra creaminess: Use full-fat cream cheese and freshly shredded cheddar. Pre-shredded cheese can get grainy.
- Thicker texture? Simmer a little longer or add a few crushed tortilla chips.
- Lighten it up: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or milk.
- Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder.
- Make ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
One of my friends swears this soup got her through a week of back-to-back soccer practices — she made one big pot on Sunday, and it fed her family all week. Smart woman.
Storage
Leftovers (if you have any!) can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often so the cheese doesn’t separate.
Want to freeze it? You can — but skip adding the cheese and cream until after thawing and reheating for best texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! It’s just as delicious and a little leaner.
Q: Can I make this in the slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef first, then add everything except the cheese and cream. Cook on low for 4–5 hours, then stir in the dairy just before serving.
Q: What can I serve with this soup?
It’s a meal on its own, but warm cornbread or a side salad pairs perfectly.
Conclusion
If you’re craving comfort food that doesn’t take all day to make, this Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe is your answer. It’s hearty enough for the hungriest crowd, creamy enough to make you sigh with happiness, and easy enough for a weeknight win.
So grab that pot, gather your ingredients, and make yourself a bowl of pure comfort tonight. And if you do, I’d love to see it — tag me on social media or leave a review on the blog. Nothing makes my day more than seeing your kitchen creations!
Follow us on Pinterest for weekly slow cooker inspiration, or join the conversation over on our Facebook page where fellow food lovers share their favorite comfort meals.
Print
Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup Recipe – Hearty, Creamy & Flavorful
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
If you’re craving a comforting and hearty meal that’s bursting with flavor, this Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup is the perfect choice for cozy nights or family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, cilantro, sliced jalapeños, tortilla chips
Instructions
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks (about 5–7 minutes).
2. Drain any excess fat and add the chopped onion. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning, coating the beef and onion mixture evenly.
5. Add the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, corn, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10–15 minutes.
7. Stir in the heavy cream and cubed cream cheese, allowing the cream cheese to melt into the soup.
8. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and fully incorporated.
9. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Add cayenne or jalapeños for extra heat if desired.
10. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with sour cream, cilantro, jalapeños, or tortilla chips.
Notes
If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or simmer longer to reduce liquid.
For a lighter version, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
Add diced jalapeños or chili powder to make it spicier.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soups
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: taco soup, ground beef soup, cheesy taco soup, creamy taco soup, easy dinner
