High Protein Creamy Taco Soup
High Protein Creamy Taco Soup is a delicious and easy recipe that is perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with protein from lean ground turkey or chicken, this soup is a filling meal that the whole family will love. The creamy texture comes from cream cheese and cheddar cheese, making each bowl rich and satisfying. This recipe is not only tasty, but it’s also simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal time in the kitchen.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make High Protein Creamy Taco Soup. First, it is full of flavor. The combination of spices and ingredients creates a hearty taste that is comforting and satisfying. The soup has all the bold flavors you expect from a taco but in a warm, creamy form.
Second, it is a healthy choice. Using lean ground turkey or chicken lowers the fat content while still providing plenty of protein. This makes it great for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet or increase their protein intake.
Additionally, this recipe is versatile. You can easily adapt it to fit your dietary needs. This means it can be enjoyed by everyone at the table, from picky eaters to health-conscious individuals. Finally, making this soup is a quick and easy task. In just one hour or less, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve.
How to Make High Protein Creamy Taco Soup
Making High Protein Creamy Taco Soup is a breeze. Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful and creamy dish that you can enjoy any night of the week.
Ingredients
Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground turkey or chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade 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
Directions
Follow these steps to make your High Protein Creamy Taco Soup:
Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Cook the Meat: Add the ground turkey or chicken to the pot. Cook it until browned, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Add Spices: Once the meat is browned, add the taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the meat with the spices.
Combine Other Ingredients: Next, add the diced tomatoes, green chilies (if using), black beans, and chicken broth. Mix everything together well.
Bring to a Simmer: Turn up the heat slightly and bring the soup to a simmer. This will help all the flavors come together.
Add Cream Cheese: Once simmering, add the cubed cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese melts and makes the soup creamy.
Melt the Cheddar Cheese: Finally, add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until it melts and evenly mixes into the soup.
Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the soup. Adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.
Serve Hot: Serve the soup hot. You can add optional toppings like sour cream, cilantro, lime, avocado, or tortilla chips to enhance the flavor and texture.
How to Serve High Protein Creamy Taco Soup
When it comes to serving High Protein Creamy Taco Soup, there are several fun and delicious ways to do so. First, you can simply ladle the soup into bowls. Top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess and tang. Chopped cilantro can add a fresh and vibrant touch that pairs well with the rich flavors of the soup.
Another great idea is to provide toppings on the side. You can have a bowl of avocado, lime wedges, shredded lettuce, and tortilla chips. People can customize their bowls with their favorite toppings. This makes it an interactive and enjoyable meal.
Consider serving the soup with some warm tortilla chips or fresh bread on the side. This not only adds texture but also helps to scoop up the soup, making it a fun dining experience.
How to Store High Protein Creamy Taco Soup
If you have leftovers, storing High Protein Creamy Taco Soup is easy. Here’s how to do it:
Cool the Soup: Allow the soup to cool down at room temperature for a bit. This will help prevent condensation in the storage container.
Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the cooled soup to airtight containers. This will keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing other odors in the refrigerator.
Refrigerate: Store the soup in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within a few days. It should last about 3 to 4 days.
Freeze for Longer Storage: If you want to keep the soup longer, consider freezing it. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags. The soup will last for about 2 to 3 months in the freezer.
When you are ready to eat the leftovers, you can reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the soup is too thick after refrigeration or freezing, just add a little water or broth to thin it out while reheating.
Tips to Make High Protein Creamy Taco Soup
Here are some helpful tips for making the best High Protein Creamy Taco Soup:
Brown the Meat Well: Make sure to brown the meat well before adding spices. This will enhance the flavor significantly.
Customize the Spice Level: If you like spicy food, consider adding jalapeños or extra taco seasoning. You can adjust the spices to fit your taste.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients always taste better. If possible, use freshly chopped tomatoes or fresh garlic instead of powders.
Mix and Match Beans: While black beans work well in this soup, you can also use pinto beans or kidney beans for different flavors.
Healthier Cheese Options: You can use reduced-fat cream cheese or cheese alternatives if you want a lighter version.
Variations
High Protein Creamy Taco Soup is versatile, allowing for various variations. Here are a few ideas to switch it up:
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meat with a plant-based protein like lentils or add more beans. This makes the soup vegetarian-friendly.
Spicy Taco Soup: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Creamy Corn: Incorporate corn (frozen or canned) for added sweetness and texture.
Chicken Enchilada Twist: Use shredded rotisserie chicken and add enchilada sauce for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of meat like lean beef or ground pork. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the meat you choose.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make High Protein Creamy Taco Soup in a slow cooker. Brown the meat first, then add all the other ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
How can I make this soup dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Use a dairy-free cheese for the cheddar cheese or omit the cheese entirely.
High Protein Creamy Taco Soup is an easy and delicious meal. With a comforting blend of flavors, it is sure to be a hit on any dinner table. Enjoy your delicious creation!
High Protein Creamy Taco Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground turkey or chicken to the pot. Cook until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the meat with the spices.
- Add the diced tomatoes, green chilies (if using), black beans, and chicken broth. Mix everything well.
- Turn up the heat slightly and bring the soup to a simmer.
- Once simmering, add the cubed cream cheese and stir until melted.
- Finally, add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it melts into the soup.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed before serving. Serve hot.