Cheesy Taco Soup

Cheesy Taco Soup

Ingredients

• 500 g ground beef or turkey

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade)

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 can (400 g) diced tomatoes

• 1 cup tomato sauce

• 2 cups beef or chicken stock

• 1 cup corn kernels

• 1 cup diced carrots

• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese

• ½ cup heavy cream or evaporated milk

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley or coriander for garnish

Instructions

1. Brown the meat
   Heat olive oil in a pot. Add ground meat and cook until fully browned. Remove excess fat.

2. Build flavour
   Add onion and garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in taco seasoning, cumin, and paprika.

3. Add liquids
   Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and stock. Stir in corn and carrots.

4. Simmer
   Let the soup simmer for 15–18 minutes until vegetables are tender.

5. Make it cheesy
   Reduce heat. Stir in cream and shredded cheese until melted and smooth.

6. Serve
   Garnish with parsley or coriander and serve hot.

Benefits

• High in protein from beef and cheese.

• Filling and warming, perfect for cold evenings.

• Easily adaptable for slow cooker or keto diets.

Tips

• Add black beans for extra fibre.

• Serve with tortilla chips or sour cream.

• Use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.

Short History

Cheesy taco soup developed from Tex-Mex cooking traditions, blending Mexican spices with American-style creamy soups.

Expanded Article: Comfort Food With a Southwestern Twist

Cheesy taco soup brings together the bold flavours of taco night and the comfort of creamy soups. It reflects the fusion of Mexican spices with American home cooking, creating a dish that is easy, warming, and family-friendly.