Get ready to transform your dinner routine with the most mouth-watering, quick, and irresistible Cheesy Taco Soup that'll have your family begging for seconds! 🌮🧀 This Mexican-inspired comfort dish is not just a soup, it's a flavor explosion that combines the zesty kick of taco seasoning with hearty ground beef and a creamy, cheesy finish that'll make your taste buds dance. Whether you're a busy parent, a cooking novice, or a seasoned chef, this recipe is your ticket to an easy, delicious meal that comes together in just minutes and slow-cooks to perfection.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2 cups cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by measuring and draining canned vegetables. Ensure ground beef is thawed if previously frozen.
- In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until no pink remains and meat is thoroughly cooked, approximately 7-8 minutes.
- Drain excess fat from the ground beef using a colander to remove unnecessary grease.
- Transfer browned beef to a slow cooker or large pot. Add drained corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes.
- Sprinkle entire packet of taco seasoning over the meat and vegetable mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution of seasoning.
- If using a slow cooker, set to low heat and cook for 4 hours. If using a pot, simmer on low heat for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Fifteen minutes before serving, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- When ready to serve, top with remaining shredded cheese and optional garnishes like sour cream or chopped cilantro.
Tips
- Choose High-Quality Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef (80/20 ratio) to ensure rich flavor without excess grease.
- Drain Canned Vegetables Thoroughly: Proper draining prevents your soup from becoming watery and maintains the perfect consistency.
- Slow Cooker vs. Stovetop: While the slow cooker method provides deeper flavor melding, the stovetop works great for quicker preparation.
- Cheese Melting Technique: Add cheese gradually and stir to create a smooth, creamy texture without clumping.
- Customize Your Toppings: Experiment with garnishes like jalapeños, green onions, crushed tortilla chips, or fresh cilantro to elevate your soup.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare in advance and reheat.
- Spice Level Control: Adjust the taco seasoning or add a dash of hot sauce to match your preferred heat level.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 362kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
