This Keto Taco Soup is a warm, hearty dish filled with ground beef, beans, and lots of spices. It’s perfect for a quick dinner and helps you stick to your low-carb goals!
And let’s be real, who doesn’t love tacos in a bowl? I like to top mine with cheese and avocado for extra flavor. Enjoying this cozy soup always feels like a treat! 🌮😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein source. If you prefer a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, use lentils or cauliflower crumbles for a hearty base.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic bring depth to the flavor. If you’re short on time, onion and garlic powder work too, just use less since they are more concentrated.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: I love using Rotel for its spice and zest. If you want less heat, opt for regular diced tomatoes and add a pinch of mild chili powder instead.
Beef Broth: This adds richness to the soup. Vegetable broth is a good substitute if you’re looking for a meatless version. Homemade broth can elevate the flavor too!
Heavy Cream: This makes the soup creamy. For a lighter approach, try coconut milk or half-and-half. For dairy-free options, cashew cream can be a nice alternative.
How Do I Make My Soup Creamy Without Curdling?
To keep your soup creamy, gently heat the cream and add it gradually to the pot. Here’s how:
- Once your soup is simmering, reduce the heat to low before adding cream.
- Temper the cream by mixing a little of the hot soup into it first, then stir it back into the pot. This slowly raises the temperature of the cream.
- Stir continuously as you add the cream to help it blend smoothly.
This technique helps avoid curdling and keeps your soup nice and creamy!
Keto Taco Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 avocado, diced (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: sliced jalapeños for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Keto Taco Soup will take about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, totaling about 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a perfect recipe for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. This builds the flavor base for your soup. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef into the pot. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Stir occasionally until the beef is browned and fully cooked—this should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s too much fat, feel free to drain off the excess.
3. Spice it Up:
Now it’s time to add the spices! Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute to help toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
4. Add the Main Ingredients:
Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chilies and the beef broth. Stir everything together well. This is where your soup starts to come together nicely!
5. Simmer:
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes so all those wonderful flavors develop.
6. Make it Creamy:
After simmering, stir in the heavy cream and cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy and delicious!
7. Final Touches:
Taste the soup and adjust any seasoning if needed. You might want to add a little more salt or pepper based on your preference!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot in bowls, topped with diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, and some fresh cilantro. If you like it spicy, add a few sliced jalapeños on top. Enjoy your comforting, low-carb Keto Taco Soup!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until it’s browned and fully cooked, same as you would with the beef.
Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
If you enjoy heat, consider adding diced jalapeños while cooking or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce in the final stages. Adjust the spice level to your liking!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. Just be sure to stir occasionally for even heating!
Can I Freeze Keto Taco Soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.