Description

This creamy and comforting Queso Soup combines ground beef, a medley of flavorful spices, and creamy cheeses to create a hearty and delicious dish perfect for any occasion. Loaded with sautéed onions, bell peppers, and mild green chiles, this soup offers rich layers of flavor and a satisfying texture. Whether served as a main course or a cozy appetizer, it’s easy to prepare using simple ingredients and stovetop cooking.

Ingredients

Meat and Vegetables

1.5 pounds ground beef or sausage
1 cup onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 tablespoon minced garlic

Spices and Broth

1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon cumin
32 ounces beef or vegetable broth

Dairy and Cheese

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Additional Ingredients

3 cans (4 ounces each) mild green chiles
Optional thickener: 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon cold water

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Brown the meat: In a 4-quart Dutch oven or stock pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef or sausage thoroughly. Once cooked, drain off the excess grease to keep the soup from becoming too oily.
Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent, enhancing the soup’s flavor base.
Add spices and broth: Sprinkle in the onion powder, garlic powder, and cumin. Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and stir well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the pot and reduce heat to low to let it cook evenly for 10 minutes.
Add cheeses and chiles: Remove the lid and add the softened cream cheese, mild green chiles, and shredded cheddar cheese to the pot. Whisk vigorously to fully melt and incorporate the cheeses, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
Thicken the soup (optional): If a thicker consistency is desired, dissolve 1 tablespoon cornstarch in 1 tablespoon cold water and stir it into the soup. Continue stirring until the soup thickens to your preference.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional shredded cheese, diced fresh tomatoes, sliced green onions, or chopped avocado for extra flavor and texture. Serve hot for a satisfying meal.

Notes

You can substitute ground sausage with ground beef for a milder flavor or vice versa for a spicier kick.
If you prefer a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and omit the meat.
The optional cornstarch thickener helps achieve a creamier, velvety texture but can be omitted if you prefer a lighter soup.
Adjust the spice levels by adding hot green chiles or chili powder if you like extra heat.
Serve with crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping.