This taco soup is perfect for those on a keto diet! Packed with flavorful ground meat, beans, and spices, it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
What makes it great? You can top it with cheese, avocado, or sour cream for that extra yum! I love making a big batch so I can enjoy it all week long. Nothing beats cozy soup nights! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and texture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works just as well. You can also make it plant-based by using lentils or a meat substitute!
Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes without added sugar keep this soup keto-friendly. You could swap in crushed tomatoes if that’s what you have on hand, or even fresh tomatoes, but adjust the cooking time slightly.
Spices: The combination of chili powder, cumin, and paprika is key for that taco flavor. If you’re out of one, don’t worry! Taco seasoning can be a good substitute, just use 1-2 tablespoons instead of individual spices.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is my go-to for topping this soup, but feel free to try pepper jack for a little kick or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Do I Make the Best Flavor with Sautéed Onions and Garlic?
Sautéing onions and garlic adds a delicious base flavor to your soup. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with medium heat to avoid burning. If they brown too quickly, turn down the heat.
- Cook onions until they’re soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. This unlocks their natural sweetness.
- Add garlic in the last minute of cooking the onions. Garlic cooks quickly and can burn, turning bitter.
Enjoy the wonderful aroma while you cook, and it sets a tasty stage for the rest of the ingredients!
Keto Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (no sugar added)
- 1 cup beef broth or bone broth
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This keto taco soup takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time for a total of around 40 minutes. It’s quick to make and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing Onion and Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3 minutes, or until the onion becomes fragrant and translucent. This will build a delicious base for your soup!
2. Cooking the Ground Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Stir and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, which will take about 6 to 8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep the soup nice and healthy!
3. Adding Spices:
Next, stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, and dried oregano. Let the spices cook for about 1 minute, which will help toast the spices and enhance their flavor. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
4. Mixing in Tomato Paste:
Add the tomato paste to the pot and mix it well with the beef and spices. This will add richness to your soup.
5. Combining Ingredients:
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, beef broth, and water. If you’re using bell peppers, add those too. Give everything a good stir to combine.
6. Simmering the Soup:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Then, reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep everything well mixed.
7. Seasoning:
Once your soup is thickened and bubbling, season it with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust spices as needed for your personal preference.
8. Serving:
Serve the soup hot! Top each bowl with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro. Enjoy your warm and hearty keto taco soup!
This delicious soup is not just keto-friendly but also perfect for cozy nights in or healthy meal prep for the week ahead!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and will work well in this recipe. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until it’s no longer pink.
How Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
If you like some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper during the cooking process. Alternatively, you can top the soup with hot sauce before serving!
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the keto taco soup! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?
If you’re looking for a substitute for sour cream, try using Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture. You could also use avocado for a rich, dairy-free option!