There’s something magical about coming home to the comforting aroma of a bubbling pot of High Protein Creamy Taco Soup. It wraps around you like a warm hug, hinting at cozy dinners and laughter-filled evenings. With its rich, creamy texture and punchy flavors, this soup is a delightful blend that keeps you cozy and satisfied when the temperatures start to drop. Just picture it: the sound of simmering ingredients, filling your kitchen as you anticipate that first, heartwarming spoonful!
High Protein Creamy Taco Soup
A rich and creamy taco soup filled with protein and warm flavors, perfect for cozy dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: High Protein
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, cooking until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the meat.
- Pour in diced tomatoes, green chilies, black beans, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and add the cubed cream cheese. Stir until melted and creamy.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese and mix until melted. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with sour cream, cilantro, and lime if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika or chipotle. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for longer storage.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Let’s Make It Together
Creating this delightful soup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy the precious moments with your loved ones while the flavors meld together. Gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into a comforting culinary adventure!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 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
Step-by-Step Directions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once warm, add the ground turkey or chicken, cooking until beautifully browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Crumble the meat well as it cooks — the aroma will make your mouth water!
- Once the meat is brown, sprinkle in the taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, ensuring that the meat is nicely coated.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, green chilies if you’re feeling extra festive, black beans, and chicken broth. Stir to combine all those vibrant ingredients, and let that lively color brighten up your pot!
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and then add the cubed cream cheese. Stir it in until it melts and the soup turns creamy, creating a luscious texture that’s simply irresistible.
- Now, toss in the shredded cheddar cheese and mix until it has melted and blended smoothly. If you need to, adjust the seasoning to your taste — make it just right for you!
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime if desired. Once you take that first spoonful, you’ll find it hard not to smile.
Nutritional Snapshot
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 24g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 8g
Packed with protein and fiber, this recipe keeps you full without feeling heavy, making it a perfect dinner option for any night of the week!
Moments Made for This Dish
This High Protein Creamy Taco Soup shines brightest on family dinner nights or chilly evenings when you want something warm and nourishing. Pair it with crispy tortilla chips or a fresh green salad for a delightful contrast. Maybe sip on a light, fruity drink to brighten the mood even more. The soup serves as an anchor for great conversations, creating memories as laughter fills your dining table.
Keep It Fresh
If you have leftovers (they’re bound to happen!), refrigerate the soup in an airtight container for up to three days. You can also freeze portions for longer storage. To enjoy again, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth to restore some creaminess if needed!
Betty’s Secrets
- For extra flavor, try adding a dash of smoked paprika or a teaspoon of chipotle for a smoky kick.
- Don’t rush the melting of the cream cheese; it’s key for a dreamy texture. Stir frequently to prevent clumping.
- If you want to load up on veggies, feel free to toss in some chopped bell peppers or corn along with the beans for added nutrition and sweetness.
Creative Twists
- In the fall, add a pinch of nutmeg to complement the warm spices for a seasonal twist.
- During summer, fresh herbs like cilantro and lime zest will add a burst of brightness.
- Feeling adventurous? Swap half of the chicken broth with coconut milk for a tropical spin!
Your Questions Answered
What makes this High Protein Creamy Taco Soup a family favorite? It’s packed with flavor and nourishes everyone without feeling too heavy, a perfect balance everyone loves!
Can I use different proteins in this soup? Absolutely! Ground beef or even plant-based meat alternatives work well if you prefer something different.
How can I make this soup spicier? You can add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper while cooking to give it a solid kick!
Can this soup be made ahead of time? Yes! It stores beautifully, making dinner prep oh-so-easy on busy nights.