This Beef Taco Soup is the ultimate comfort food!

Packed with bold taco flavors, tender beef, melty cheese, and a rich, creamy broth, it’s an easy one-pot meal that’s perfect for cozy nights, meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd.

Make it on the stovetop or in the Instant Pot for a quick and satisfying dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Taco Soup

Quick and versatile – stovetop or Instant Pot options

Creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite

Loaded with hearty protein – beef, cheese, and broth

Keto and low-carb friendly

Family-approved – even picky eaters love it

Great for meal prep and freezer meals

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Ground beef – rich and flavorful, 80/20 blend is ideal

Yellow or white onion – diced for sweetness

Bell pepper – any color, adds fresh crunch

Garlic cloves – minced for aroma and depth

Beef broth – savory base for the soup

Diced tomatoes – canned for convenience

Salsa – brings bold taco flavor

Taco seasoning – homemade or store-bought

Cream cheese – for a luscious creamy finish

Heavy cream – adds extra richness

Cheddar cheese – freshly shredded melts best

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use room temperature cream cheese for easier blending

Drain beef fat for a cleaner, lighter soup

Choose thick salsa for extra texture

Freshly grate the cheddar – it melts smoother than pre-shredded

Adjust seasoning after adding dairy to balance the flavors

How to Make Beef Taco Soup

Step 1: Saute beef and vegetables
In a large pot (or Instant Pot on sauté mode), cook the ground beef, diced onion, and diced bell pepper over medium-high heat until the beef is browned.

Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Add broth, tomatoes, salsa, and seasoning
Stir in minced garlic, beef broth, diced tomatoes, salsa, and taco seasoning.

Mix everything together well.

Step 3: Cook the soup

Instant Pot method: Secure the lid and set to high pressure for 2 minutes.

Allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.

Stovetop method: Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat.

Cover and cook on low for about 30 minutes.

Step 4: Add the creamy ingredients
After cooking, stir in softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese.

Stir until everything is fully melted and the soup is creamy.

Step 5: Serve
Ladle the hot beef taco soup into bowls.

Garnish with your favorite toppings like avocado, sour cream, green onions, shredded cheese, or tortilla chips.

What to Serve It With

Tortilla chips or cheese crisps

Cornbread or keto bread

Simple avocado salad

Guacamole and salsa on the side

Lime wedges for a citrusy pop

Variations / Substitutions

Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or pork

Add beans or corn if you’re not doing keto

Spice it up with jalapeños, cayenne, or hot salsa

Use light cream cheese for a lower-fat version

Add extra vegetables like zucchini, cauliflower rice, or spinach

Storage & Leftovers

Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 3–4 days

Freezer: Freeze soup in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months

Reheat: Gently warm on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally

Tip: Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup thickens after refrigerating

FAQs

Can I make Beef Taco Soup ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together!

Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely before freezing.

Stir well after reheating.

How do I make it spicier?
Add cayenne pepper, extra taco seasoning, or a spicier salsa.

What kind of salsa is best?
Chunky or thick salsa adds great texture, but any type you enjoy works.

Can I omit the cream cheese?
You can, but it will be less creamy.

Substitute with more heavy cream if needed.

Is this soup keto-friendly?
Yes! Just avoid adding beans or corn to keep it low-carb.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, easily! Just make sure your pot or Instant Pot is large enough.

Final Thoughts

This Beef Taco Soup is creamy, cheesy, and bursting with bold taco flavors—everything you could want in a cozy, comforting bowl.

Whether you’re using the Instant Pot or stovetop, it’s an easy, hearty meal that the whole family will love.

Don’t forget the toppings!