high Protein Creamy Taco Soup Recipe
This high-protein creamy taco soup is a comforting and hearty dish featuring lean ground turkey or chicken simmered with taco seasoning, beans, tomatoes, and melted cream cheese for a rich and creamy texture. Perfect for an easy weeknight meal that’s packed with flavor and protein.
- Author: Natalie
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering, Browning
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Low Fat
Protein and Meat
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground turkey or chicken
Seasonings and Spices
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Liquids and Canned Ingredients
- 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
Dairy
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Oil
- Cook the Meat: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey or chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks to ensure even cooking.
- Add Seasonings: Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to evenly coat the meat with spices.
- Add Vegetables and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes, optional green chilies, black beans, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Simmer and Add Cream Cheese: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the cubed cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has fully melted and the soup acquires a creamy texture.
- Add Cheddar Cheese: Incorporate the shredded cheddar cheese into the soup, stirring until it melts smoothly into the soup’s creamy base.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or spices as desired to balance flavors.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the soup hot. Optionally, garnish with sour cream, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for extra brightness and flavor.
Notes
- Use lean ground turkey or chicken for a lower-fat option.
- Homemade taco seasoning can be used to control sodium levels.
- Green chilies add a mild kick but can be omitted for less heat.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and cheddar cheese with vegan alternatives.
- Serve with tortilla chips or warm corn tortillas for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 240 ml)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: high protein taco soup, creamy taco soup, turkey taco soup, easy taco soup recipe, healthy taco soup