Name: High Protein Creamy Taco Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) lean ground turkey or chicken; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade); 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

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Why Make This Recipe

High Protein Creamy Taco Soup is a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. Packed with lean protein from turkey or chicken, this soup is not only hearty but also nutritious. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, something to warm you up on a cold day, or a tasty dish to impress guests, this creamy taco soup fits the bill. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be on your table in about 30 minutes!

How to Make High Protein Creamy Taco Soup

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:

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey or chicken and cook until it is browned.
Add taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the meat well.
Pour in the diced tomatoes, green chilies (if using), black beans, and chicken broth. Mix everything together.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the cubed cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it melts and blends smoothly.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with sour cream, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime if desired.

How to Serve High Protein Creamy Taco Soup

High Protein Creamy Taco Soup is best served hot. You can top it with sour cream, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for added flavor. It goes great with tortilla chips on the side or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.

How to Store High Protein Creamy Taco Soup

To store any leftovers, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the soup. Place it in a freezer-safe container or freezer bags, and it will last for about 2-3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up on the stove or in the microwave.

Tips to Make High Protein Creamy Taco Soup

For an extra kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños when cooking the meat.
If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of chicken broth or simmer the soup longer to let it reduce.
You can swap out the cream cheese for Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
This soup can easily be customized with your favorite toppings, such as avocado, sliced radishes, or chopped green onions.

Variation

If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can replace the ground turkey or chicken with lentils or a mix of your favorite vegetables. You can also use a variety of beans, such as pinto or kidney beans, to keep the dish packed with protein and fiber.

FAQs

1. Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other lean meats like ground beef or even shredded chicken.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just store it in the fridge or freezer as mentioned above.

3. Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free taco seasoning and check the labels on your canned ingredients, this soup can be gluten-free.