Instructions:
Preparing the Soup Base:
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the cooked ground beef. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Season the Base:
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning mix over the beef and onion mixture. Stir well to evenly coat everything. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add Canned Ingredients:
- Incorporate the canned black beans, pinto beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel) into the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Pour in Beef Broth:
- Add the beef broth to the mixture. This adds depth and a savory dimension to the soup.
- Simmer and Cover:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 20-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the beans and vegetables to soften.
Creating the Creamy Base:
- Prepare a Roux:
- In a separate saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for about 2-3 minutes to create a smooth roux. This will help thicken the soup.
- Add Creamy Ingredients:
- Gradually pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. The mixture should thicken as you stir.
- Incorporate Cream Cheese:
- Add the softened cream cheese to the mixture and continue to stir until it’s fully melted and incorporated.
- Season the Creamy Base:
- Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. The seasonings enhance the creamy base with a hint of smokiness and spice.
- Add Shredded Cheddar:
- Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese and continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted, creating a rich, creamy sauce.
Bringing it all Together:
- Combine the Creamy Base and Soup Base:
- Pour the prepared creamy base into the soup pot with the simmered soup base. Stir everything together to create a smooth and creamy soup.
Serving and Optional Garnish:
- Hot and Delicious:
- Serve the Creamy Beef Taco Soup hot, ladling it into bowls.
- Garnish to Perfection:
- Top each serving with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and a pop of color.
- Serving with Crunch:
- Accompany your soup with tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy texture of the soup.
Enjoy your Creamy Beef Taco Soup! Conclusion: Creamy Beef Taco Soup is a delightful fusion of spicy taco flavors and creamy soup comfort. This recipe brings together ground beef, vegetables, and a rich, creamy base that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this detailed recipe ensures that you can create a Creamy Beef Taco Soup that’s both delicious and satisfying. Savor every spoonful and enjoy the comforting warmth of this delightful dish!
