Description
Hearty high protein creamy taco soup delivers bold Mexican-inspired flavors in one satisfying bowl. Packed with lean protein and rich spices, this comforting soup will transport you straight to a warm kitchen in Mexico.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground turkey or chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 ounces (226g) cream cheese, cubed
Vegetables and Beans:
- 1 (14.5 ounces/411g) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (10 ounces/283g) can green chilies (optional)
- 1 (15 ounces/425g) can black beans, drained and rinsed
Seasonings and Liquids:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a spacious cooking vessel over medium temperature, then introduce ground turkey or chicken and thoroughly brown the protein.
- Sprinkle taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper over the meat, ensuring complete coverage with aromatic spices.
- Incorporate diced tomatoes, roasted green chilies, black beans, and chicken broth into the pot, mixing ingredients until well combined.
- Allow the mixture to gently simmer, then introduce cubed cream cheese, stirring consistently until the cheese dissolves and creates a velvety texture.
- Gradually fold in shredded cheddar cheese, continuing to stir until the cheese fully melts and integrates into a smooth, rich consistency.
- Evaluate the soup’s flavor profile, adjusting seasonings to enhance taste complexity if necessary.
- Transfer the steaming soup into serving bowls, optionally adorning with a dollop of tangy sour cream, fresh cilantro leaves, and a vibrant lime wedge for added zest and visual appeal.
Notes
- Elevate protein content by choosing lean ground turkey or chicken with at least 93% meat composition for healthier meal.
- Swap cream cheese with Greek yogurt or low-fat cream cheese to reduce calories while maintaining creamy texture and protein boost.
- Create dairy-free version by using plant-based cream cheese alternatives and omitting cheddar cheese, ensuring similar rich consistency.
- Customize heat levels by adjusting taco seasoning intensity or adding fresh jalapeños for spice lovers who want extra kick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg