If you are craving a comforting bowl that balances creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors with a little kick, you are going to love this Queso Soup Recipe. It’s a hearty, satisfying soup that brings together ground beef or sausage, vibrant green chiles, and a luscious blend of cheeses all simmered to perfection. Every spoonful feels like a warm hug, making it an ideal dish for cozy nights or entertaining friends. The magic here lies in the combination of simple ingredients that create depth, color, and that signature queso creaminess you won’t forget.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of a thick, creamy soup being lifted with a metal ladle. The soup has a pale orange color with chunks of ground meat and diced green vegetables mixed throughout. The texture looks smooth but with visible pieces, giving it a hearty appearance. The background is blurred but shows more of the soup, all in a black pot. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Before you start combining flavors in the pot, let’s talk about the ingredients, which are both straightforward and incredibly flavorful. Each one plays a vital role: the protein adds richness, the vegetables bring freshness and texture, and the cheeses ensure that deliciously creamy base that defines this soup.

1.5 pounds ground beef or sausage: Choose your favorite for a hearty base with rich flavor.
1 cup onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth once softened.
1 green bell pepper, chopped: Brings a mild crunch and vibrant color.
1 tablespoon minced garlic: Infuses a fragrant kick without overpowering.
1 teaspoon each onion powder, garlic powder, cumin: These spices layer in extra warmth and aroma.
32 ounces beef or vegetable broth: The cooking liquid that ties all flavors together beautifully.
8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Provides that creamy, luscious texture that makes queso soup so irresistible.
3 4-ounce cans mild green chiles: Adds a subtle, smoky heat and nicely complements the cheese.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melted cheese is the soul of the soup; sharp varieties work best.
Optional thickener – 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon cold water: Use to thicken the soup if you prefer a heavier consistency.

How to Make Queso Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by browning your choice of ground beef or sausage in a large Dutch oven or stock pot over medium heat. This step builds a deep, savory foundation for your soup. Once the meat is cooked through, be sure to drain off any excess grease to keep the soup from becoming greasy and to maintain a clean, robust flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic straight to the pot. Let them sauté together for about 5 to 6 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent. This process enhances their natural sweetness and creates a fragrant base that excites your senses as you cook.

Step 3: Add Spices and Broth

Sprinkle in the onion powder, garlic powder, and cumin to infuse the mixture with warm, aromatic notes. Pour in the beef or vegetable broth, and bring everything to a simmer. Cover the pot and lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer for 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Incorporate Cheeses and Chiles

Remove the lid and stir in the softened cream cheese, green chiles, and shredded cheddar cheese. Whisk vigorously so that all the cheeses melt smoothly into the broth, creating that signature creamy texture and irresistibly cheesy flavor that makes this Queso Soup Recipe stand out.

Step 5: Optional Thickening

If you prefer your soup to be a bit thicker, stir in a slurry made from one tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with one tablespoon of cold water. Stir the soup continually until it thickens to your liking, giving you a luscious, velvety finish.

How to Serve Queso Soup Recipe

A dark round pot is filled with a golden brown liquid base. On top of this liquid, there is a large block of white cream cheese sitting slightly off center. Around and on top of the cream cheese, there are many small, loose pale yellow shredded cheese pieces scattered unevenly, some soaking into the liquid. The pot rests on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Although the soup is delicious on its own, garnishing adds texture and freshness that make each bowl even more delightful. Top your queso soup with extra shredded cheese, finely chopped fresh tomatoes, crisp green onions, or creamy cubes of ripe avocado to introduce vibrant color and burst of flavor with every spoonful.

Side Dishes

This queso soup is fabulous paired with warm, crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping. You could also serve it alongside a simple green salad or Mexican-style rice to make a complete and satisfying meal that everyone will rave about.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this soup in bread bowls, hollowing out small sourdough rounds so they soak up that cheesy goodness. You can also ladle it over baked potatoes or mix in some cooked pasta for a unique spin on a traditional soup experience. Presentation is part of the joy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover queso soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply give it a good stir before reheating to reincorporate any settled ingredients and maintain that creamy consistency.

Freezing

Freeze the soup in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture of the cheese may slightly change after freezing, but a thorough reheating and stirring will bring it back to a tasty spot.

Reheating

Reheat your queso soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid scorching and to help the cheeses melt back into harmony. Adding a splash of broth or milk can help restore any thickness lost during storage.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in this Queso Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is classic here, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a kick, or even a smoked gouda to add depth. Just be sure the cheese melts smoothly into the soup.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply substitute the ground meat with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or use plant-based sausage alternatives. Use vegetable broth and keep the rest of the ingredients the same for a great meat-free version.

How spicy is this Queso Soup Recipe?

This recipe uses mild green chiles which provide a gentle warmth without overwhelming heat. If you love spicier dishes, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

What can I do if my soup is too thick?

Just stir in a little more broth or milk to thin it out to your preferred consistency. This will also help keep the cheesy flavors beautifully balanced without becoming too dense.

Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything into your slow cooker with the broth and spices. Cook on low for 4-5 hours, then add the cheeses and chiles near the end, stirring well until melted and creamy.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm bowl filled with cheesy, flavorful goodness, and this Queso Soup Recipe delivers that in spades. It’s a go-to meal that feels special without requiring fuss, perfect for any occasion whether it’s a casual weeknight or a festive gathering. Once you try it, it might just become one of your favorite recipes to revisit often—and isn’t that exactly what great cooking is all about?