Creamy Taco Soup – Bold, Spicy & Budget-Friendly Comfort Food

Warm up with a bowl of our Creamy Taco Soup, a hearty and bold dish that combines the zesty flavors of taco seasoning with the creaminess of a rich, velvety broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or meal prep, this budget-friendly comfort food delivers a satisfying mix of spicy, creamy, and tangy notes that will become a family favorite—all without breaking the bank!

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🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Budget-Friendly: Enjoy a flavorful, hearty soup for a fraction of the cost.
• Bold & Spicy: Taco spices, zesty tomatoes, and a creamy finish create layers of flavor.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single pot.
• Versatile: Serve with tortilla chips, a dollop of sour cream, or shredded cheese for extra indulgence.
• Meal Prep & Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day!

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Soup Base:

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained & rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 2 cups chicken broth (or water + bouillon for budget-friendly option)

For the Taco Seasoning:

• 2 tbsp taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade; see Budget Taco Seasoning Tips)
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Creamy Finish:

• 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
• ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)

Garnish:

• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Tortilla chips or strips

Tip: Use store-brand ingredients and check local sales to keep costs down.

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Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~400 kcal
Protein	~25 g
Carbohydrates	~35 g
Fat	~18 g
Fiber	~6 g

Values may vary based on specific brands and serving sizes.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Meat

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add 1 lb ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

1. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot.
2. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Soup

1. Stir in the taco seasoning, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, black beans, kidney beans, and frozen corn.
3. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer & Blend the Flavors

1. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes over low heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 5: Add the Creamy Finish

1. Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup sour cream and ½ cup heavy cream.
2. Mix well until the soup is smooth and creamy. Do not boil after adding the dairy to prevent curdling.

Step 6: Serve & Garnish

1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with chopped cilantro, shredded cheddar cheese, and a handful of tortilla chips or strips.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

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💰 Cost Breakdown (Estimated for 6 Servings)

Ingredient Group	Estimated Cost
Ground beef (1 lb)	$3.00
Onion, garlic, taco seasoning, spices	$1.00
Canned beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, corn	$3.00
Chicken broth (2 cups)	$1.00
Sour cream & heavy cream	$1.50
Total Estimated Cost	~$9.50
Cost Per Serving	~$1.58

Prices are approximate and may vary by region. Use bulk or store-brand items for additional savings!

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Additional Tips & Variations

Cooking & Storage Tips

• Meal Prep: This soup stores well. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave; add a splash of broth if needed.
• Blending Option: For a smoother texture, blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and add extra beans, tofu, or chopped vegetables.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of taco seasoning or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Noodle Addition: Stir in cooked pasta or rice for a heartier version.

Presentation Ideas

• Garnishing: Top with extra cheese, a drizzle of lime juice, or avocado slices for added creaminess.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with warm, crusty bread or a side of tortilla chips for extra crunch.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner, budget-friendly option.

Q: What if I don’t have sour cream?
A: You can substitute Greek yogurt, which adds a tangy creaminess while keeping the dish light.

Q: How do I prevent the soup from curdling after adding dairy?
A: Reduce the heat to low before stirring in the sour cream and heavy cream, and avoid boiling the soup thereafter.

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare the soup in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently and stir in any additional dairy just before serving.

For more budget-friendly meal prep ideas, check out Meal Prep 101: How to Save Time & Money on Family Dinners.

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Related Recipes & Internal Links

Discover more affordable and delicious recipes on KateFi.com:

• One-Pot Spicy Cajun Chicken & Rice – Fast, Cheap & Delicious!
• Crispy Honey Sriracha Chicken – Sweet, Spicy & Under $5!
• Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff – A Rich, Creamy Dinner on a Budget

For more inspiration on eating well while saving money, check out The 50 Grocery Challenge – Can You Eat for a Week on This Budget?.

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Final Thoughts

This Creamy Taco Soup is a bold, spicy, and hearty dish that offers comfort food perfection on a budget. With its rich flavors and velvety creaminess, it’s a versatile meal that’s perfect for busy nights, meal prep, or family gatherings. Enjoy a bowl of warmth and spice, and share your creative tweaks and favorite garnishes in the comments below!

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