Loaded Nacho Soup

Name: Loaded Nacho Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 jalapeño, chopped; 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Sour cream; Sliced green onions; Chopped cilantro; Diced avocado; Tortilla chips

Highlighted under: Hearty Food Recipes

I absolutely love whipping up this Loaded Nacho Soup when I need something comforting and easy. The vibrant flavors of cheese, spicy jalapeños, and zesty lime come together in a warm, creamy bowl that feels indulgent and satisfying. It’s perfect for game days or cozy evenings in, and I always find myself going back for seconds. Not only is it a hit with everyone, but it’s also incredibly versatile—you can easily add in your favorite toppings to make it uniquely yours.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-23T10:30:31.492Z

In experimenting with soup recipes, I stumbled upon a delightful combination of flavors that remind me of the irresistible taste of nachos. By transforming those flavors into a soup, I created an inviting dish bursting with warmth. I love to sauté onions and garlic for a few moments before adding the broth, as it deepens the flavors and sets a savory base.

While making this soup, I recommend using a combination of shredded cheddar and cream cheese, as it lends a fantastic creaminess that coats each spoonful. Don’t hesitate to customize your toppings, like adding fresh avocado or crunchy tortilla strips, which amplify the texture and flavor dramatically!

Why You'll Love This Loaded Nacho Soup
A hearty, cheesy delight that warms your soul
Flexible toppings to customize each bowl
Perfect for a crowd or cozy nights in

Essential Techniques for Perfect Nacho Soup

To achieve the perfect Loaded Nacho Soup, it's essential to sauté your aromatics thoroughly. When cooking the onions, aim for them to soften and become translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes over medium heat. Be careful not to rush this step; undercooked onions can add a harsh flavor to your soup. Once you stir in the garlic and jalapeño, cook until fragrant, around 2 minutes. This process lays a flavorful foundation for your soup.

Incorporating the cream cheese smoothly is vital for a rich texture. To do this effectively, make sure it's softened at room temperature. If you’re short on time, you can microwave it for 15-20 seconds, just until it softens slightly. Stir it in slowly, allowing it to melt into the broth without clumping. This step is crucial because a smooth consistency enhances the overall mouthfeel of the soup.

Ingredient Insights

The role of cheese in this Loaded Nacho Soup cannot be overstated. Cheddar adds a sharp flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cream cheese. If you prefer a milder taste, feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack or Gouda, which will melt just as well. Both will provide a deliciously gooey texture. Additionally, consider shredding your cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded options; the latter often contains anti-caking agents that prevent optimal melting.

Using fresh ingredients can elevate the flavor profile significantly. If corn isn’t in season, frozen corn works admirably, preserving that sweet crunch. When choosing jalapeños, pick ones that are firm and shiny; this indicates freshness. If you like intense heat, keep the seeds when chopping; for a milder taste, remove them. Remember, the spice level can be adjusted according to your preference by varying the amount of jalapeño used.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious soup!

For the Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 jalapeño, chopped
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

For Toppings

Sour cream
Sliced green onions
Chopped cilantro
Diced avocado
Tortilla chips

Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste!

Steps to Make Loaded Nacho Soup

Follow these easy steps to prepare a delicious soup!

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped jalapeño, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Combine the Base

Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Add the black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Allow the soup to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting all the flavors meld together.

Add the Creaminess

Stir in the softened cream cheese until fully incorporated and smooth. Then, add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve with Toppings

Ladle the soup into bowls and let everyone customize their portions with their favorite toppings like sour cream, green onions, cilantro, avocado, and crunchy tortilla chips.

Enjoy this deliciously loaded soup with your loved ones!

Pro Tips

Feel free to let the soup simmer longer for deeper flavors, and don't hesitate to mix in other favorite toppings like diced tomatoes or pickled jalapeños for extra zing!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Loaded Nacho Soup is perfect for meal prepping! To make it ahead, fully prepare the soup and allow it to cool before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing, ensure there's adequate space in the container, as liquids expand when frozen. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat on the stove over medium until piping hot.

If you find that the soup thickens too much during storage, just add a splash of broth or water while reheating. Stir continuously to blend the ingredients back together until it reaches your desired consistency. This tweak ensures each serving tastes freshly made, no matter how much time has passed since you first prepared it.

Delicious Variations

This Loaded Nacho Soup is highly adaptable. For a heartier version, feel free to add cooked chicken or beef. Brown the meat directly in the pot during the sautéing step before adding the onions and garlic for extra flavor. You can also switch up this comforting dish with different beans such as pinto or kidney beans, giving it your unique spin. If you're vegetarian, simply stick with the black beans or swap in lentils for added nutrition.

For those aiming for a healthier version, consider substituting the cream cheese with Greek yogurt, giving you that creamy texture while cutting down on calories. Additionally, use low-sodium broth and reduce or eliminate salt as needed to maintain a tasty flavor without compromising your dietary preferences. Experimenting with spices can also lead to exciting results; try adding smoked paprika or a splash of lime juice to brighten the overall taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the soup and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth and skip the chicken components.

→ Can I freeze Loaded Nacho Soup?

Yes! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use as a substitute for cream cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream cheese if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free option.