A rich, cheesy, comforting soup packed with seasoned beef, tomatoes, cream cheese, and cheddar. This recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates when made without beans, corn, rice, or tortilla strips.

Yield

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

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Ingredients

Main Soup

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80–90% lean)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning (about 2 tablespoons) or homemade taco seasoning
• 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (10 oz / 280 g) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained (optional)
• 3 cups beef or chicken broth
• 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened and cubed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Garnishes (Optional)

• Chopped cilantro
• Diced fresh tomatoes
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream
• Sliced jalapeños
• Avocado cubes
• Tortilla strips (higher carb)

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Homemade Taco Seasoning (Optional)

Mix together:

• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp oregano
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

Add:

• Ground beef
• Diced onion

Cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking up the beef as it browns.

Drain excess grease if desired.

Step 2: Add Flavor

Stir in:

• Garlic
• Taco seasoning

Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in:

• Diced tomatoes
• Tomatoes with green chilies
• Broth

Stir well.

Bring to a gentle boil.

Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Reduce heat to low.

Add softened cream cheese a little at a time while stirring.

Whisk until fully melted and smooth.

Step 5: Add Dairy

Pour in heavy cream.

Slowly stir in cheddar cheese until melted.

Do not boil after adding dairy.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust:

• Salt
• Pepper
• Taco seasoning

Simmer 3–5 more minutes.

Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

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Nutrition Information

Per Serving (1/6 of recipe)

Approximate values:

Note: Nutrition varies based on broth, taco seasoning, cheese brand, and toppings.

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Low-Carb Version

To keep carbs low:

✅ Use heavy cream instead of half-and-half

✅ Skip:

• Corn
• Black beans
• Rice
• Pasta
• Tortilla strips

✅ Add:

• Extra cheese
• Avocado
• Jalapeños
• Cauliflower rice

Approximate net carbs:
5–7 g per serving

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Keto Version

For a keto-friendly soup:

• Use full-fat cream cheese
• Use heavy cream
• Use sugar-free taco seasoning
• Skip beans and corn

Estimated:

• 5–6 g net carbs
• 70%+ calories from fat

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Storage

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Heat gently over low heat, stirring often.

Avoid boiling to prevent dairy from separating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes.

1. Brown beef, onion, and garlic first.
2. Add to slow cooker with tomatoes, seasoning, and broth.
3. Cook:
   • Low: 4–6 hours
   • High: 2–3 hours
4. Stir in cream cheese, cream, and cheddar during the last 30 minutes.

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Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely.

Ground turkey or chicken works well and reduces calories and fat.

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Q: Why is my soup grainy?

Cheese can become grainy if the soup is too hot.

To prevent this:

• Lower heat before adding dairy.
• Add cheese gradually.
• Avoid boiling after adding cream and cheese.

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Q: Can I make it spicy?

Yes.

Add:

• Extra jalapeños
• Cayenne pepper
• Hot sauce
• Spicy taco seasoning

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Q: Can I add vegetables?

Great options include:

• Bell peppers
• Zucchini
• Mushrooms
• Spinach
• Cauliflower rice

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Q: Can I freeze it?

Yes, but creamy soups may separate slightly after thawing.

Whisk while reheating to restore texture.

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Q: What can I serve with taco soup?

Low-carb options:

• Avocado slices
• Side salad
• Cheese crisps
• Roasted vegetables
• Cauliflower rice

Traditional options:

• Cornbread
• Tortilla chips
• Mexican rice

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Recipe Success Tips

• Soften the cream cheese before adding.
• Shred your own cheese for smoother melting.
• Simmer gently rather than boiling.
• Taste before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.