Queso Soup

This deliciously creamy Queso Soup is the ultimate comfort food game changer! It’s perfect for any occasion, from cozy weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Its rich flavors and velvety texture will warm you from the inside out. Plus, it’s an easy keto soup that can be on your table in just 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of prep and cook time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices and cheeses creates a depth of flavor that is sure to impress.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or serve it as a dip with tortilla chips or fresh veggies.
• Keto-Friendly: This soup fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle while still delivering on taste.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings like avocado, tomatoes, or extra cheese for a personalized touch.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing your Queso Soup even easier. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large stock pot
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large stock pot: Ideal for browning meat and simmering the soup evenly without burning.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping ingredients quickly and safely.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent flavor.
• Whisk: Helps blend the cream cheese smoothly into the soup for that creamy texture.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1.5 pounds ground beef or sausage
• 1 cup onion (chopped)
• 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon EACH onion powder, garlic powder, cumin

For the Broth

• 32 ounces beef or vegetable broth

For Creaminess

• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 3 4-ounce cans mild green chiles
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Optional Thickener

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon cold water

How to Make Queso Soup

Step 1: Brown the Meat

1. In a Dutch oven or large stock pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef or sausage until fully cooked.
2. Drain off any excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

1. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot.
2. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until the onion is softened.

Step 3: Add Spices and Broth

1. Stir in onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, and broth.
2. Bring to a simmer; cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Cook for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Incorporate Creaminess

1. Remove the lid from the pot.
2. Add softened cream cheese, green chiles, and shredded cheese.
3. Whisk vigorously until all cheeses are fully incorporated.

Step 5: Thicken (Optional)

1. If you prefer a thicker soup, add cornstarch dissolved in cold water.
2. Stir until the soup reaches your desired thickness.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot with additional toppings like cheese, fresh tomatoes, green onions, or chopped avocado for added flavor!

How to Serve Queso Soup

Queso Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Chopped Avocado – Adds a creamy texture and refreshing flavor.
• Green Onions – Provides a mild onion taste and a pop of color.
• Fresh Tomatoes – Adds acidity and sweetness, balancing the richness of the soup.

Pair with Crunchy Snacks

• Tortilla Chips – Perfect for dipping and adds a satisfying crunch.
• Vegetable Sticks – Carrots, celery, or bell peppers bring a healthy crunch to every bite.

Serve with Bread

• Crusty Bread Rolls – Ideal for scooping up the soup; warm them for extra comfort.
• Garlic Bread – Adds flavor and is perfect for dipping in the cheesy goodness.

How to Perfect Queso Soup

Perfecting your Queso Soup can make all the difference. Follow these tips to ensure your soup turns out creamy and delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables enhance the flavors and textures of your soup.
• Experiment with Cheese – Try different cheese blends like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor.
• Adjust Spice Levels – If you like it spicy, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper to kick up the heat.
• Add More Veggies – Incorporate spinach or zucchini for an extra nutritional boost.
• Serve Warm – Enjoy your soup immediately after cooking for the best texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Queso Soup

Complementing your Queso Soup with the right side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip that pairs perfectly with cheesy flavors.
2. Mexican Rice – Flavored rice adds substance to your meal, making it more filling.
3. Cornbread – Sweet and savory cornbread enhances the comforting experience of the soup.
4. Salad with Lime Dressing – A fresh salad balances out the richness of the soup with bright flavors.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Hearty stuffed peppers provide an added layer of flavors that complement queso nicely.
6. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies can add depth and nutrition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Queso Soup can be simple, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Skipping the Sauté: Not sautéing the vegetables can result in a lack of flavor. Always take the time to sauté onions and peppers until softened to enhance the overall taste of your soup.
• Overcooking the Cheese: Adding cheese too early or cooking it on high heat can cause it to clump instead of melt smoothly. Stir in cream cheese and shredded cheese at lower temperatures for a creamy texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Seasoning is key in any dish, including soup. Don’t forget to taste and adjust spices after simmering for a balanced flavor profile.
• Using Low-Quality Broth: A subpar broth can lead to bland soup. Opt for high-quality beef or vegetable broth for the best flavor base in your Queso Soup.
• Neglecting Thicker Options: If you prefer a thicker consistency, don’t hesitate to add a thickener like cornstarch mixed with water. This helps achieve that desired creamy texture.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Queso Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Queso Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Queso Soup

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until heated through.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until warmed evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Queso Soup that might help enhance your cooking experience.

What is Queso Soup?

Queso Soup is a creamy, cheesy soup typically made with broth, ground meat, and spices. It’s perfect for cozy nights or gatherings.

Can I make Queso Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

How spicy is Queso Soup?

The spice level depends on the type of green chiles used. Mild canned chiles offer gentle heat, while hot varieties add more spice. Adjust according to your preference!

Can I customize my Queso Soup?

Absolutely! Add other ingredients like beans, corn, or different types of cheese for extra flavor and texture variations.

How do I store leftover Queso Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Queso Soup recipe offers a rich and comforting experience that’s perfect for chilly nights or casual gatherings. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences; feel free to add ingredients like vegetables or different cheeses. Try this easy recipe today and enjoy its creamy goodness!