Why You’ll Love Creamy Taco Soup Recipe

It brings the bold, familiar flavors of tacos into a warming, spoonable dinner.
One-pot simplicity makes it easy and low-fuss.
It’s flexible — you can change the protein or toppings to suit your preferences.
It works great for entertaining, leftovers, or comforting nights in.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef
15 oz corn
2 cups salsa
5 oz green chilies
15 oz black beans
2 tbsp taco seasoning
1½ tbsp dry ranch mix
2 cups beef broth
¾ cup half-and-half

Directions

In a large soup pot, cook and crumble the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain off the fat.
Add the corn, salsa, green chilies, black beans, taco seasoning, and dry ranch mix to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Pour in the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook on medium-low heat for about 30–40 minutes.
Stir in the half-and-half, mixing to combine and finish the soup.
Serve hot, and top with your choice of sour cream, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or tortilla chips.

Servings and timing

Serves: 8
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Use vegetarian beans and omit the meat for a vegetarian version — you might add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
Change up the heat: use mild or hot green chilies, or add diced jalapeños.
Replace half-and-half with full milk or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter or dairy-free version (note texture differences).
Add extras like diced tomatoes, chopped roasted peppers, or a splash of lime juice for brightness.

Storage/Reheating

To store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5–7 days.
To freeze: Let the soup cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 3–4 months.
To reheat: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a microwave-safe bowl until heated through.

FAQs

What can I use instead of half-and-half?

You can substitute whole milk for a lighter texture or heavy cream for a richer result. Dairy-free alternatives like oat or almond milk also work, though the soup will be slightly thinner.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, after browning the ground beef, transfer it to a slow cooker with the remaining ingredients (except the half-and-half). Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 4–5 hours. Stir in the half-and-half just before serving.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then freeze it in airtight containers or bags for up to 4 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What toppings go well with this soup?

Try sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, diced avocado, crushed tortilla chips, or fresh cilantro.

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or ground chicken make great leaner substitutes for ground beef in this recipe.

How spicy is this soup?

The spiciness depends on the salsa and green chilies used. Choose mild versions for a gentle heat or spicy versions if you prefer more kick.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, omit the meat and use vegetable broth. Add more beans or diced veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for added texture.

Will the soup thicken when it sits?

Yes, it may thicken slightly as it cools. If needed, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it when reheating.

How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 5–7 days in a sealed container.

Can I add rice or pasta to make it more filling?

Absolutely. Stir in cooked rice, quinoa, or small pasta shapes like elbows or ditalini just before serving for a heartier meal.

Conclusion

Creamy taco soup is a perfect blend of comforting warmth and bold taco flavor, making it a standout for weeknight meals or casual get-togethers. It’s simple, versatile, and satisfying — great for feeding a family or enjoying as leftovers. With so many ways to customize and top it, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe all year round.