Loaded Nacho Soup

Name: Loaded Nacho Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 4 cups beef broth; 1 packet taco seasoning; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed; Sliced jalapeños, for garnish; Diced avocados, for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Bowls

I love diving into a warm bowl of Loaded Nacho Soup, especially on chilly evenings. It’s a comforting blend of savory flavors and satisfying textures that always hits the spot. The combination of cheesy goodness, zesty spices, and crunchy toppings creates a delightful experience. Each spoonful is a celebration of nacho flavors in a hearty, cozy soup form. Whether enjoyed on game day or as a family dinner, it becomes an instant favorite at our table, and I'm excited to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:42:27.551Z

When I first decided to make Loaded Nacho Soup, I had no idea how quickly it would become a staple in my kitchen. I experimented with the spices, ensuring the balance was just right to capture the essence of nachos. The key was to let the soup simmer long enough for all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Trust me, this soup packs a punch—each bite brings a burst of cheesy nacho goodness!

I particularly enjoyed adding fresh toppings like sliced jalapeños and diced avocados just before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a refreshing crunch that complements the creamy base. Give it a try; it’s the perfect meal for any gathering or a cozy night in!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy soup that's bursting with nacho flavors
Perfect balance of spices and creamy cheese
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings

Enhancing Flavor and Texture

The key to achieving a rich and satisfying flavor profile in Loaded Nacho Soup lies in the balance of your spices and ingredients. While the taco seasoning adds a punch, consider enhancing the depth by adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat. These additions can elevate the soup from standard to extraordinary, making each bite a flavorful experience that showcases the warmth of the spices.

Texture is equally important when it comes to soup. To create a creamier base, consider stirring in a bit of cream cheese along with the shredded cheddar. This not only thickens the soup but also adds a luscious mouthfeel that complements the crunchy toppings. It’s vital to remember to add the cheese gradually, stirring constantly to avoid clumping; this helps achieve a smooth, velvety consistency.

Customization and Serving Suggestions

One of my favorite aspects of Loaded Nacho Soup is its versatility. You can easily make it vegetarian by swapping the ground beef for lentils or finely chopped mushrooms, which provide an earthy flavor and satisfy your appetite. For a healthier twist, try using low-fat cheese or Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, allowing you to enjoy the same decadent taste with fewer calories.

When it comes to presentation, making the soup visually appealing is a must! I recommend serving it in clear bowls to showcase the colorful layers of cheese, tomatoes, and toppings. You can elevate your serving game by offering a variety of toppings on the side, like lime wedges, cilantro, or even hot sauce, allowing guests to customize their bowls according to their preferences.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started on your Loaded Nacho Soup:

Soup Base

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
4 cups beef broth
1 packet taco seasoning

Cheesy Topping

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
1 cup tortilla chips, crushed
Sliced jalapeños, for garnish
Diced avocados, for garnish

With these ingredients in place, you're ready to whip up this delicious soup!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make the Loaded Nacho Soup:

Cook the Ground Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the Beans and Tomatoes

Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Mix well and let it cook for another 5 minutes.

Simmer with Broth

Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add Cheese and Toppings

Once the soup has thickened slightly, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Serve hot, garnished with the remaining cheese, sour cream, tortilla chips, jalapeños, and diced avocados.

Enjoy your hearty bowl of Loaded Nacho Soup that combines all your favorite nacho elements!

Pro Tips

Feel free to switch the ground beef for ground turkey or a meat substitute for a lighter or vegetarian option.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the great things about Loaded Nacho Soup is that it's a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prepare the soup base in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the soup on the stove over low heat until warmed through, then stir in the cheese before serving. This saves time on busy weeknights, letting you enjoy this comforting dish without much fuss.

If you want to freeze the soup, I suggest doing so after cooking it but before adding any dairy. The soup can be stored in airtight containers for up to three months. When reheating from frozen, allow it to defrost overnight in the refrigerator first, then heat on the stove, stirring in the cheddar cheese and sour cream before serving. This prevents the dairy from curdling and maintains the soup's creamy texture.

Common Troubleshooting

If you find your soup turns out too thick, don't panic! Simply add more beef broth, a half-cup at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. This is a great way to salvage the soup and also gives you the opportunity to adjust the seasoning. The broth will help blend in the flavors, bringing the bold tastes back to life while ensuring it remains hearty.

Conversely, if your soup feels too watery, you can thicken it by simmering it for longer to allow more liquid to evaporate, or by adding a cornstarch slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and cold water). Just make sure to stir continuously as you add, so it incorporates well without lumping. These tips can help you master the consistency of your Loaded Nacho Soup, making it just right for everyone at your table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the soup a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat and add fresh toppings when serving.

→ What can I use instead of beef broth?

You can use vegetable broth or chicken broth as a substitute depending on your preference.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Can I make this soup spicy?

Yes! You can add more diced tomatoes with green chilies, or include fresh chopped jalapeños to amp up the heat.