This Keto Taco Soup is a warm and tasty dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with ground meat, tomatoes, and zesty spices, it’s full of flavor without the carbs!
You won’t believe how easy it is to make. Just mix it all in one pot and let it simmer! I like to top mine with cheese and avocado—it’s like a hug in a bowl! 🥑🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using ground beef for its rich flavor, but ground turkey is a leaner option. If you’re looking for something plant-based, crumbled tofu or tempeh can also work well, just remember to adjust cooking times.
Onion: A small onion adds great taste. If you’re in a rush, using onion powder can save time, but nothing beats the fresh flavor. Shallots are a nice milder alternative too!
Heavy Cream: To keep this recipe keto-friendly, I suggest sticking with heavy cream, but if you’re dairy-free, coconut cream can give it a nice richness. Just be aware it will change the flavor a bit.
Spices: The chili powder, cumin, and paprika are what make this soup pop! If you love a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or chipotle powder. Smoked paprika can also bring extra depth!
How Do I Make Sure My Taco Soup Stays Creamy?
Keeping your Keto Taco Soup creamy relies on two key factors: proper cooking times and adding the heavy cream at the right moment. Here’s how you can ensure success:
- First, never boil the cream. Always lower the heat when you add it to prevent curdling.
- Allow the soup to simmer gently after adding the cream; this helps meld the flavors without compromising the texture.
- If you like a thicker soup, feel free to let it simmer a bit longer after adding the cream!
Adjust the amount of cream based on how creamy you want it. Everyone has different preferences, so taste and tweak as you go!
Keto Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (no sugar added)
- 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 avocado, sliced (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep. Just let the flavors simmer to create a delicious, hearty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Then add the minced garlic, cooking for another 30 seconds until it’s aromatic—this is where the magic begins!
2. Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks until it’s nicely browned all over. This step gives your soup its hearty base.
3. Spice it Up:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for about a minute to toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
4. Build the Soup:
Next, pour in the can of diced tomatoes, add the tomato paste, and pour in the beef broth. Stir everything really well to combine all those delicious ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Let it Simmer:
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes. This gives the soup time to develop those rich, savory flavors. Just relax while it bubbles away!
6. Make it Creamy:
After simmering, stir in the heavy cream. This is what makes your soup deliciously creamy! Allow it to cook for another 5 minutes until everything is warmed through and slightly thickened.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give your soup a taste! Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. If it needs a little more zest, you can add a dash more chili powder too!
8. Serve it Up:
Ladle the warm soup into bowls. Top with a sprinkle of shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, slices of avocado, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Don’t forget to serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness!
9. Enjoy!
Dig in and savor every bite of your comforting, low-carb Keto Taco Soup! It’s perfect for chilly nights or whenever you crave something warm and satisfying.
Can I Use Ground Chicken or Pork Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or pork are great substitutes and will still give you a delicious flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as they may cook differently than beef.
How Can I Store Leftover Taco Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Keto Taco Soup! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach to boost the nutritional value. Just add them when you sauté the onions to ensure they cook down and meld into the soup nicely.
