Snuggling up with a warm bowl of Keto Taco Soup is one of my absolute favorite things. I can still remember the first time I tried this recipe – it was a chilly autumn evening and I’d had a long, stressful day at work. All I wanted was something comforting and delicious, but also keto-friendly since I’ve been sticking to a low-carb lifestyle. When my husband surprised me with a big pot of Keto Taco Soup, I have to admit I was a bit skeptical at first. But from the very first spoonful, I was absolutely hooked! The rich, savory broth, the tender shredded chicken, the perfectly seasoned taco-inspired flavors – it was like a hug in a bowl.
I remember gobbling it down so quickly, not wanting a single drop to go to waste. And the best part? It fit seamlessly into my keto diet. No more feeling deprived or left out when everyone else was enjoying a hearty bowl of taco soup. From that day on, Keto Taco Soup has become a staple in our household, the perfect meal for chilly nights or when I’m craving something warm and satisfying. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and always leaves me feeling nourished and satisfied.
Why This Keto Taco Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Keto Taco Soup
What makes this Keto Taco Soup recipe so special is the perfect blend of spices and the slow-simmered broth. By browning the ground beef and sautéing the aromatics before adding the remaining ingredients, you develop such a rich, complex flavor profile that takes this soup to the next level. And the combination of classic taco seasonings like chili powder, cumin, and oregano creates that undeniably delicious taco taste we all know and love.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
– Ground beef – The base of the soup, providing heartiness and savory flavor.
– Onion – Sautéed until tender, adding sweetness and depth.
– Garlic – Fragrant and pungent, elevating the overall taste.
– Tomato paste – Helps thicken the broth and contribute tangy tomato notes.
– Chicken broth – The flavorful liquid that brings the soup together.
– Diced tomatoes – Add texture and freshness.
– Taco seasoning – A blend of spices that gives the soup its signature taco flavor.
– Shredded chicken – Provides protein and makes the soup more substantial.
– Cream cheese – Adds a rich, creamy element.
– Shredded cheddar cheese – The perfect topping to complete the taco experience.
Step-by-Step Keto Taco Soup Instructions
Preparing Your Keto Taco Soup
This Keto Taco Soup comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it the perfect easy weeknight meal. You’ll only need a few simple kitchen tools – a large pot or Dutch oven, a wooden spoon, and a sharp knife. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to get this delicious soup on the table.
1- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, making sure to crumble it as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
3- Stir in the tomato paste and taco seasoning, and let the mixture cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and deepen the flavor.
4- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the soup to a simmer.
5- Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the shredded chicken and cubes of cream cheese. Allow the cream cheese to melt, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes.
6- Ladle the hot Keto Taco Soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, fresh cilantro, or any other desired toppings. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
– For extra richness, use a combination of ground beef and ground pork.
– Adjust the taco seasoning to your desired level of spiciness.
– Don’t skip the step of browning the beef – it adds so much flavor.
– Be sure to stir the soup frequently while the cream cheese is melting to prevent it from curdling.
– Customize the toppings to your liking, such as diced avocado, sour cream, or crushed pork rinds.
Serving and Storing Your Keto Taco Soup
Perfect Pairings for Keto Taco Soup
Keto Taco Soup is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a lighter option, serve it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Or, for a more indulgent pairing, try it with homemade keto-friendly cornbread or low-carb tortilla chips. And of course, no Keto Taco Soup is complete without an ice-cold sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea to wash it down.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Keto Taco Soup will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes exceptionally well for longer-term storage. Simply let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Keto Taco Soup
Creative Keto Taco Soup Variations
While the classic Keto Taco Soup is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. Try swapping in ground turkey or chicken for the beef, or make it vegetarian by using sautéed mushrooms or crumbled tempeh instead. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or Monterey Jack. And for a seasonal twist, add in some diced butternut squash or zucchini.
Making Keto Taco Soup Diet-Friendly
This Keto Taco Soup recipe is already naturally gluten-free and low-carb, but there are a few easy modifications you can make to suit other dietary needs. For a dairy-free version, simply omit the cream cheese and use a dairy-free shredded cheese for the topping. To make it vegan, replace the chicken with cooked lentils or chickpeas, and use a plant-based cream cheese alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this Keto Taco Soup recipe?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute that will work perfectly in this recipe. The flavor profile may be a bit different, but it will still result in a delicious, keto-friendly soup.
Q: How long does Keto Taco Soup take to make?
A: This Keto Taco Soup recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes. The active prep time is minimal, making it an excellent option for a quick and easy weeknight meal.
Q: Can I freeze Keto Taco Soup?
A: Yes, Keto Taco Soup freezes extremely well. Simply let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: How many servings does this Keto Taco Soup recipe make?
A: This recipe makes approximately 6-8 servings, depending on the size of the portions. It’s a hearty soup, so I’d recommend a 1-cup serving size.
Q: What should I do if the soup turns out too thick?
A: If your Keto Taco Soup ends up being too thick for your liking, simply add a bit more chicken broth, a splash at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Keto Taco Soup
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of Keto Taco Soup – a quick and easy low-carb meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This hearty soup is packed with ground beef, bold taco seasonings, and a creamy broth, making it a satisfying and comforting dish.
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 4 cups low-sodium beef or chicken broth
– 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
1. – In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
2. – Add the taco seasoning and stir to coat the beef.
3. – Pour in the broth, diced tomatoes, and diced green chiles. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. – Ladle the Keto Taco Soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro.
5. – Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
– For a creamier texture, you can add a dollop of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream to the soup.
– Customize the toppings to your liking – try adding jalapeños, sliced olives, or crushed pork rinds.
– This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Conclusion
I hope this Keto Taco Soup recipe becomes a new favorite in your household, just like it has in mine. It’s the perfect balance of flavor, comfort, and keto-friendliness – a meal that will warm you from the inside out. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the toppings and variations to make it your own. And if you have any other questions, be sure to leave a comment below. I’m always happy to help! Now go forth and enjoy a delicious bowl of Keto Taco Soup.
