Queso Soup

This deliciously creamy Queso Soup is the ultimate comfort food game changer! It’s the perfect keto soup to warm you up on a cold weeknight. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a cozy meal at home, this soup checks all the boxes. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, you’ll find it hard to resist a second bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Queso Soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices, cheese, and green chiles creates a mouthwatering experience in every spoonful.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this soup by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting spice levels to suit your taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, allowing you to enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Low-Carb Delight: Perfect for those following a keto diet, it’s packed with protein and low in carbs.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this comforting Queso Soup, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 4-quart Dutch oven or stock pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• 4-quart Dutch oven or stock pot: This large pot allows for even cooking and helps achieve that creamy consistency.
• Cutting board and knife: Essential for chopping veggies quickly and safely.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures precise measurements of spices for consistent flavor.
• Whisk: Ideal for blending ingredients smoothly, especially when incorporating cream cheese into the soup.

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Ingredients

For the Soup 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
• 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 4-quart Dutch oven or stock pot, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until fully cooked.
2. Drain off any excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté Veggies

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

Step 3: Add Spices and Broth

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

Step 4: Incorporate Cheeses

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

Step 5: Thicken If Desired

1. If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water.
2. Stir this mixture into the soup until it thickens to your liking.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your comforting Queso Soup hot with optional toppings like additional cheese, fresh tomatoes, green onions, or chopped avocado. Enjoy!

How to Serve Queso Soup

Serving Queso Soup is a delightful experience that can be customized to fit any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or hosting a gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your creamy soup.

Toppings for Extra Flavor

• Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar on top for a melty finish.
• Fresh Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add freshness and a pop of color.
• Chopped Green Onions: These provide a mild onion flavor and crunchy texture.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the soup’s richness and adds healthy fats.

Pairing with Bread

• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the rich soup.
• Garlic Breadsticks: These flavorful sticks are great for scooping up every last bit of queso.

Serving as an Appetizer

• Mini Cups: Serve small portions in cups for an appetizer at parties.
• Tortilla Chips: Offer chips on the side for dipping, adding crunch alongside the creamy soup.

How to Perfect Queso Soup

Perfecting your Queso Soup is all about technique and ingredients. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making your soup vibrant.
• Control the Heat: Keep an eye on the simmering process; too high can burn the bottom.
• Whisk Vigorously: When adding cream cheese, whisk thoroughly to achieve a smooth consistency with no lumps.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you cook; personalizing spice levels ensures it meets your preferences.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Mixing different types of cheese can create unique flavor profiles; try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for extra kick.

Best Side Dishes for Queso Soup

Complementing your Queso Soup with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Guacamole: Creamy and flavorful, guacamole pairs perfectly with the richness of queso.
2. Cornbread: This sweet bread offers a delicious contrast to the savory soup.
3. Vegetable Platter: Crunchy veggies like carrots and celery provide a refreshing balance.
4. Rice Salad: Lightly seasoned rice salad adds a cool touch and complements the warmth of queso.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Filled with grains or beans, stuffed peppers are hearty and satisfying alongside soup.
6. Nachos: Layered tortilla chips topped with cheese, jalapeños, and beans make an exciting dish to share.
7. Crispy Kale Chips: These provide a healthy crunch that pairs well with creamy soups.
8. Potato Wedges: Seasoned baked potato wedges offer a comforting side that’s easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Queso Soup, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold cream cheese: Starting with cold cream cheese can lead to lumps in your soup. Always soften it before adding to the pot.
• Skipping the sauté step: Neglecting to sauté the vegetables can result in a bland flavor. Take the time to cook them until soft for a richer taste.
• Not adjusting seasonings: Every broth has a different salt level. Taste your soup and adjust the seasonings as needed to enhance flavor.
• Overcooking the cheese: Boiling cheese can make it grainy. Stir gently and remove from heat just as it melts for a creamy texture.
• Ignoring thickening options: If your soup is too thin, don’t hesitate to use cornstarch or other thickeners. This step can transform your dish into a hearty meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Queso Soup

• Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of each container as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Queso Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, heating until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between until hot.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Queso Soup:

Can I substitute ground beef in Queso Soup?

Yes, you can use ground turkey or lamb instead of ground beef for a different flavor profile while keeping it just as delicious.

What can I add for extra flavor in Queso Soup?

Consider adding spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley also enhance the taste.

Is Queso Soup keto-friendly?

Absolutely! This creamy Queso Soup is low in carbs and high in fats, making it perfect for keto diets.

How do I make this Queso Soup vegan?

To make a vegan version, replace beef with lentils or mushrooms and use plant-based cream cheese along with vegetable broth.

Can I make this soup spicier?

For more heat, add jalapeños or hot sauce during cooking. Adjust according to your taste preference!

Final Thoughts

This tasty Queso Soup is more than just comfort food; it’s a versatile recipe that you can customize easily. Feel free to experiment with different proteins or toppings like avocado and fresh herbs. Try it today and enjoy endless variations!