Creamy Taco Soup Without Beans

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Last Updated on December 7, 2024 by Toya

Out of beans? Or maybe you’re just not a fan of beans but still craving some delicious taco soup? This recipe is makes the perfect bowl of taco soup without beans!

This creamy taco soup recipe without beans is loaded with tender ground beef, fresh vegetables, and creamy cheese, and makes a satisfying taco soup that’s you’ll want to make over and over.

So, whether you’re just trying to avoid beans or you just want a rich, creamy version of taco soup, this recipe is easy to make and full of all the best taco soup flavors.

Let me show you how to make it below!

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp butter
• ½ cup finely chopped onion
• 2 crushed garlic cloves
• 1 diced Serrano pepper (for a little heat, adjust to your preference)
• ½ cup diced fresh tomatoes
• 4 cups beef stock (or broth)
• 600 grams (about 1.3 pounds) ground beef with at least 20% fat
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (you can also use melted cheese)
• 1 tbsp taco seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Taco Soup Without Beans

Start by heating the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and cook until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Next, add the crushed garlic cloves and diced Serrano pepper, cooking for another minute until the garlic is fragrant and the pepper softens.

Stir in the diced fresh tomatoes and taco seasoning a cook for a minute.

Remove the vegetables from the pot and add the ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned. If needed, drain any excess fat, but leaving a bit will help enhance the flavor of the soup. Once the beef is browned, add the vegetables back in.

Pour in the beef stock, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for a while to let the flavors meld and the soup thicken slightly. Adjust the heat to low if it’s simmering too vigorously.

Add the cream cheese and stir until it melts into the soup, creating a creamy texture. Once incorporated, add the shredded cheddar cheese and continue stirring until it fully melts, making the soup extra cheesy.

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra taco seasoning as needed.

Ladle the creamy taco soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes, such as sour cream, avocado slices, crushed tortilla chips, cilantro, or more shredded cheese.

Recipe Variations:

1. Make It Spicier:
   If you enjoy extra heat, add more Serrano peppers, or even a diced jalapeño pepper, to the soup.
2. Swap the Ground Beef:
   For a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. If you prefer a different flavor, ground pork or lamb could also be delicious substitutes.
3. Add More Vegetables:
   You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for extra nutrition and texture. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic in the first step for the best flavor.
4. Use Different Cheeses:
   Instead of cheddar cheese, try using a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a bit of queso fresco for a different cheese experience. A combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack will give the soup a wonderful melty texture.
5. Add Sour Cream:
   For even more creaminess, stir in a dollop of sour cream along with the cream cheese for an extra layer of richness.
6. Make It Dairy-Free:
   To make the soup dairy-free, omit the cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Instead, you can use a dairy-free cream cheese and top with a dairy-free cheese alternative or avocado slices for creaminess.
7. Top It Off:
   You can garnish the soup with sliced green onions, cilantro, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an extra burst of freshness. Crunchy tortilla chips or crushed corn chips make a great topping for added texture.
8. Crock Pot Taco Soup: Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then transfer it to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 4-6 hours. Once it’s ready, serve with your favorite toppings!

This Taco Soup Without Beans is perfect for you if you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful, and creamy soup without the beans. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and easily customizable. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this soup will make everyone who tries it happy!