5-Ingredient Cheesy Taco Soup Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 (1 ounce) packet taco seasoning
• 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, undrained
• 1 (24 ounce) jar black bean and corn salsa
• 3/4 cup prepared salsa con queso dip
• 1 cups water

Directions

Step 1: In a soup pot, crumble the ground beef over medium-high heat. Stir in the taco seasoning packet and cook until the beef is no longer pink, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Drain any excess grease from the pot and return the beef mixture to the pot.

Step 3: Add the undrained pinto beans, black bean and corn salsa, salsa con queso dip, and water. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and top with your favorite toppings. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	546
Total Fat	20g	25%
Saturated Fat	7g	34%
Cholesterol	105mg	35%
Sodium	1728mg	75%
Total Carbohydrate	47g	17%
Dietary Fiber	13g	45%
Total Sugars	7g
Protein	45g	90%
Vitamin C	16mg	18%
Calcium	151mg	12%
Iron	7mg	40%
Potassium	1306mg	28%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History and Origins of Cheesy Taco Soup

Cheesy Taco Soup is a modern American creation that blends the hearty flavors of traditional Mexican tacos with the comforting, warm texture of soup. Its origins can be traced to home kitchens in the United States during the late 20th century, when easy-to-make, one-pot meals became popular for busy families. By combining ground beef, beans, salsa, and cheese, cooks created a dish that captured the essence of a taco in a simple, spoonable form.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

While Cheesy Taco Soup is enjoyed nationwide, it has particular popularity in the Southwestern United States, where Tex-Mex flavors dominate. In some regions, cooks enhance the soup with local ingredients such as green chilies in New Mexico or smoked paprika in Texas. Corn and black beans are common, but some variations substitute pinto or kidney beans depending on local preferences. The level of spiciness can also vary regionally, with milder versions favoring families and hotter versions appealing to those who enjoy bold flavors.

Comparison with Similar Dishes

Cheesy Taco Soup is often compared to chili, enchilada soup, and taco casserole. Unlike chili, it usually incorporates a cheese-based element and salsa rather than relying solely on tomato sauce and chili powder. Enchilada soup tends to include tortillas and enchilada sauce, while taco casseroles are baked rather than simmered on the stovetop. Cheesy Taco Soup stands out for its simplicity and the direct inclusion of taco ingredientsseasoned beef, beans, and salsamaking it a quick, customizable option.

Typical Serving Occasions

This soup is commonly served as a casual family dinner, a weeknight meal, or a dish for gatherings such as potlucks or game-day parties. It pairs well with tortilla chips, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and guacamole. Its versatility allows it to be served in bowls for individual portions or in larger pots for communal eating. Leftovers can also be reheated, maintaining their flavor and texture, making it a practical choice for busy households.

Interesting Facts

• Cheesy Taco Soup is often prepared with just five to six ingredients, emphasizing convenience without sacrificing flavor.
• The soup became especially popular with home cooks in the 1990s when Tex-Mex ingredients were widely available in supermarkets.
• Some variations use cream cheese or Velveeta to achieve a smooth, creamy texture that melts beautifully into the broth.
• Despite its simplicity, Cheesy Taco Soup can be easily customized with vegetables, different types of beans, or alternative proteins like turkey or chicken.
• The dish highlights the American approach to fusion cuisine, adapting traditional Mexican flavors into a home-friendly, one-pot meal.

FAQ about 5-Ingredient Cheesy Taco Soup Recipe

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