Want a dinner that feels like a million bucks but costs less than ten? This Creamy Cheddar Beef Taco Soup – Rich & Delicious is my secret weapon. I perfected it during a particularly lean month, and it quickly became a family favorite. If you’re looking for more easy comfort food, you should definitely try our Crockpot Lasagna Soup – Effortless Comfort in One Bowl.
You don’t need expensive ingredients to eat well. This soup is proof that a little creativity and some pantry staples can create a truly luxurious meal. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone ask for seconds.
Recipe Overview
Here’s a quick look at what you’re making. This is my go-to for a busy weeknight because it’s so straightforward.
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Category: Soup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6
Why This Recipe Saves You Money
I built this recipe from the ground up to be kind to your wallet. It relies on affordable, shelf-stable ingredients you can stock up on when they’re on sale.
Using ground beef is a classic budget move. Stretching it with beans and corn makes the meal go even further. This is the core of budget-friendly cooking.
Canned goods are the heroes here. They are inexpensive, ready to use, and have a long shelf life. You avoid the premium prices of pre-chopped or pre-cooked ingredients.
My Tips for Smart Shopping on a Budget
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that make a huge difference. These small habits add up to significant savings over time.
Always buy your beans and corn canned or frozen. The frozen corn is often cheaper per pound than fresh. This is a simple swap that maintains quality.
Purchase block cheese and shred it yourself. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents and is more expensive per ounce. A block of cheddar is a much better value.
Buy ground beef in larger, family-size packs. You can brown it all at once and freeze portions for future recipes. This saves both time and money on your next cooking session.
Creamy Cheddar Beef Taco Soup – Rich & Delicious Recipe
The Budget-Friendly Ingredient List
Notes
Enjoy your homemade Creamy Cheddar Beef Taco Soup – Rich & Delicious Recipe!
Nutrition Information
The Budget-Friendly Ingredient List
Here is everything you’ll need. I promise, nothing on this list will break the bank.
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional toppings: sour cream, tortilla chips, cilantro
How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps for a perfect result every single time. It comes together in one pot, which means less cleanup!
1. Start by browning the ground beef with the diced onion in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is soft.
2. Add the minced garlic and taco seasoning. Stir constantly for about one minute until the spices are fragrant. This step wakes up the flavors.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring the whole mixture to a boil.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
5. Turn off the heat. Stir in the cubed cream cheese and shredded cheddar until the cheeses are fully melted and the soup is creamy. This is the magic step!
6. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings. I love a dollop of sour cream and a handful of crunchy tortilla strips.
How to Use Up Every Last Bit (No Waste!)
I hate throwing food away. Here’s how I ensure every component of this meal gets used.
If you have leftover soup, it freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely and store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. It makes for a fantastic future lunch.
Use any extra tortilla chips by crushing them into a coarse crumb. You can use them as a topping for a future casserole or as a breading for chicken.
If you only use half an onion, dice the remainder and freeze it. You can toss the frozen diced onion directly into your next soup or skillet dish.
Nutrition Notes
While this is a comfort food, it’s also packed with good stuff. Here’s a general breakdown per serving.
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 7g
If you’re craving something different but equally satisfying, you’ll love our Ground Beef & Potato Hash – Crispy, Cheesy & Delicious recipe.
Common Questions About This Recipe
I get a few questions about this recipe all the time. Here are the answers to help you out.
Can I make this in a crockpot?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and onion first, then add everything except the cheeses to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4. Stir in the cheeses 30 minutes before serving.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
A great budget substitute is a few tablespoons of sour cream stirred in at the end. It provides a similar tangy creaminess without requiring a whole block of cream cheese.
Is it possible to make this soup spicier?
Of course! For more heat, use a hot taco seasoning packet. You could also add a diced jalapeño when you cook the onions, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce at the end.
I hope this recipe brings as much joy and savings to your table as it has to mine. It’s a true testament to the fact that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. And if you’re in the mood for dessert, don’t miss our incredible The Best Fudgy Chewy Browkies: Ultimate Chocolate Bliss!
Let me know your own money-saving twists for this recipe in the comments below! Please leave a rating!