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High Protein Creamy Taco Soup Recipe

4.9 from 8 reviews

This High Protein Creamy Taco Soup is a hearty, flavorful, and nutritious dish perfect for a comforting meal. Packed with lean ground turkey or chicken, black beans, and a creamy blend of cream cheese and cheddar, it offers a satisfying high-protein option with a Mexican-inspired kick. Easy to prepare and customizable with optional ingredients, this soup is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Base

  • 1 lb (450g) lean ground turkey or chicken
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Seasonings

  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Vegetables and Legumes

  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (10 oz) can green chilies (optional)
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed

Liquids and Dairy

  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Brown 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.
  2. Add seasonings: Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to coat the meat evenly with all the spices.
  3. Add vegetables and broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes, green chilies if using, black beans, and chicken broth. Stir to combine all ingredients well.
  4. Simmer and add cream cheese: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Then add the cubed cream cheese, stirring continuously until it melts completely and creates a creamy texture.
  5. Incorporate cheddar cheese: Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it melts and the soup is smooth and creamy.
  6. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the soup and add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot, optionally garnished with sour cream, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for extra brightness.

Notes

  • Using lean ground turkey or chicken helps keep the soup high in protein and lower in fat.
  • For a spicier soup, add diced jalapeños or more green chilies.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with textured vegetable protein or extra beans, and use vegetable broth.
  • You can prepare this soup ahead of time and reheat it; it thickens when chilled, so add a bit of chicken broth when reheating if needed.
  • Garnishes such as avocado, cilantro, sour cream, or lime enhance flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: taco soup, high protein soup, creamy soup, ground turkey soup, chicken taco soup, Mexican soup, healthy soup