High Protein Creamy Taco Soup is a delightful and hearty dish that brings the zest of taco night right to your kitchen. With its rich, creamy texture and delightful blend of spices, it becomes a favorite for weeknight dinners and cozy gatherings. In my experience, there’s something incredibly satisfying about slurping on a warm bowl of this soup after a long day. It’s a comforting, filling meal that doesn’t take long to prepare—a perfect choice for busy evenings when you still want something homemade and delicious.
Reasons to Try It
What makes High Protein Creamy Taco Soup so special? For starters, it’s packed with protein thanks to the lean ground turkey or chicken, making it a great option for anyone looking to boost their intake while enjoying a tasty meal. It’s versatile, quick to prepare, and incredibly budget-friendly. Plus, it’s an excellent choice for families; even the pickiest eaters will likely love it! Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply want to whip up something satisfying for your family, this soup fits the bill perfectly.
“This soup is a game changer! It’s creamy, flavorful, and my kids ask for it every week!” – Happy Home Cook
Preparing High Protein Creamy Taco Soup
Creating this delightful soup is straightforward and won’t take much of your time, making it a stress-free dinner option. Start by browning your turkey or chicken, then mix in the wonderful flavors of taco seasoning and aromatics before adding in the star ingredients. You’ll have a deliciously creamy soup bubbling on your stovetop in no time!
What You’ll Need
To make this High Protein Creamy Taco Soup, gather these essential ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground turkey or chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or your favorite homemade blend)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (10 oz) can green chilies (optional)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to use other lean proteins or plant-based alternatives if you prefer!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s talk about how to bring this delicious soup together!
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground turkey or chicken and cook until browned.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to coat the meat.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, optional green chilies, black beans, and chicken broth. Mix well.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the cubed cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is melted and the soup becomes creamy.
- Finally, add in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, then serve hot, garnished with sour cream, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime if desired.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This High Protein Creamy Taco Soup is wonderfully satisfying on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience with a few creative serving suggestions. Top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a wedge of lime for an extra zing. Pair it with tortilla chips or a crisp salad to round out the meal, and if you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding some avocado slices or jalapeños for an extra kick!
How to Store & Reheat
If you happen to have leftovers (which might be rare because it’s so good!), storing this soup is a breeze. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it over medium heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much. You can also freeze portions for up to three months—just be sure to label them for easy identification later.
Helpful Cooking Tips
To take your soup to the next level, consider these tips:
- Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking the meat.
- Creamier consistency: For an even creamier soup, you can blend part of the soup before adding in the cheese; this will give it a luscious consistency.
- Substitutions: If you don’t have cream cheese, Greek yogurt can work in a pinch for a similar creamy texture!
Creative Twists
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some fun variations you can try:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meat for a mix of lentils and additional beans for a hearty vegetarian soup.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses based on your preference—Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add a nice twist.
- Taco Variations: Switch up the spices and try adding chipotle in adobo for a smoky flavor.
Common Questions
Can I use ground beef instead of turkey or chicken?
Yes! Ground beef works beautifully for this recipe—just be aware that it may add more fat.How can I make it dairy-free?
Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, such as cashew cream or a plant-based cream cheese.What can I do with leftover taco soup?
This soup makes a fantastic filling for burritos, quesadillas, or even as a topping for baked potatoes.
High Protein Creamy Taco Soup is a delightful option for any meal, combining ease and flavor all in one. And with a few twists or adjustments, it can easily adapt to your lifestyle. Enjoy exploring this culinary adventure!
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High Protein Creamy Taco Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A hearty and creamy taco soup packed with protein, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground turkey or chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (10 oz) can green chilies (optional)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground turkey or chicken and cook until browned.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to coat the meat.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, optional green chilies, black beans, and chicken broth. Mix well.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the cubed cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is melted and the soup becomes creamy.
- Add in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, then serve hot, garnished with sour cream, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime if desired.
Notes
For an even creamier texture, consider blending part of the soup before adding the cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg