why make this recipe

Hearty High Protein Creamy Taco Soup is perfect for cozy nights when you want something warm and filling. This soup is loaded with protein from lean ground turkey or chicken, making it a nutritious option for a family dinner. The creamy texture, combined with zesty taco flavors, brings comfort to any chilly evening. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and can easily feed a crowd!

how to make Hearty High Protein Creamy Taco Soup

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
1 pound ground turkey or chicken (can be substituted with other meats)
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (for flavor)
1 teaspoon onion powder (for flavor)
1 teaspoon cumin (for warmth)
1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
1 can (4 oz) green chilies (optional)
1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed)
3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
8 oz cream cheese (cubed)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)

Directions

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
Add 1 pound of ground turkey or chicken, breaking it apart. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in 1 packet of taco seasoning, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Coat the meat evenly with the spices.
Pour in 1 can of diced tomatoes (with juice), 1 can of green chilies (if desired), and 1 can of black beans (drained and rinsed) along with 3 cups of broth. Mix well.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors meld for about 10 minutes.
Add the cubed cream cheese, stirring until it melts into a creamy delight.
Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and blended thoroughly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with sour cream, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime if desired.

how to serve Hearty High Protein Creamy Taco Soup

Serve this soup hot, garnished with your choice of toppings such as sour cream, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. You can also pair it with tortilla chips or warm bread for dipping, making it a filling meal that everyone will enjoy.

how to store Hearty High Protein Creamy Taco Soup

If you have leftovers, let the soup cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until hot. You may want to add a little extra broth when reheating to restore the creaminess.

tips to make Hearty High Protein Creamy Taco Soup

For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce when cooking the meat.
Use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version of the soup.
Feel free to mix in other vegetables like corn or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.

variation

You can swap the ground turkey or chicken with ground beef or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian version. The choice of beans can also be varied; try kidney beans or pinto beans for different flavors and textures.

FAQs

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Simply brown the meat in a skillet first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free taco seasoning and check that your chicken broth is gluten-free, this soup can be a gluten-free option.

Can I freeze Hearty High Protein Creamy Taco Soup?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.