This Turkey Taco Soup is a cozy bowl of flavor, packed with ground turkey, beans, and tasty spices. It’s like having tacos in soup form—yum!
I love how quick it is to whip up; just toss everything in a pot and let it simmer. Perfect for those chilly days when all you want is something warm and hearty! 🌮✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is your main source of protein. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground chicken or extra-lean beef can work just as well. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or plant-based meat substitutes!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add richness and flavor. Feel free to use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a smoky twist. Fresh tomatoes can also be used if you prefer, just chop them up and add more broth.
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you don’t have black beans, pinto beans or kidney beans are great substitutes. Canned options are super convenient for this recipe.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are essential for flavor. If you’re out of chili powder, taco seasoning can be a good replacement. Smoked paprika gives a nice touch, but it’s optional if you don’t have it on hand.
How Do I Brown Ground Turkey Properly?
Getting the perfect browning on the ground turkey helps enhance the flavor. Here are some easy steps:
- Start with a preheated pot, and add olive oil to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Break up the turkey into small pieces for even cooking. Let it sit for a minute before stirring to let it get some nice color.
- Cook until the turkey is no longer pink, usually around 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush it—browning adds depth!
With these tips and tricks, your Turkey Taco Soup will be delicious and satisfying every time! Enjoy!
Turkey Taco Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for garnish)
- Shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty Turkey Taco Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to cook, making a total of about 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and easy to enjoy a comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it’s softened, which will take about 3-4 minutes. Your kitchen will start smelling great!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot with the onions. Cook it for an additional minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Brown the Turkey:
Add the ground turkey to the pot. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks, and continue cooking until it’s browned all over. This should take around 5-7 minutes. Make sure it’s cooked through and no longer pink!
4. Spice It Up:
Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Let this mixture cook for about 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and release their flavors.
5. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato paste, black beans, corn, and chicken broth into the pot. Stir everything together so it’s well mixed.
6. Simmer the Soup:
Bring your soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, taste the soup and adjust any seasonings if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the soup hot in bowls. Top with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, and a handful of chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Enjoy this flavorful and hearty Turkey Taco Soup that captures the essence of tacos in every delicious spoonful!
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground beef will add a richer flavor to the soup. Just be sure to drain any excess fat after browning it for a healthier option, similar to what you would do with ground turkey.
What Can I Substitute for the Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth is a great substitute that will keep the soup flavorful. You can also use water, but consider adding more spices to enhance the taste.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground turkey with a protein of your choice, such as lentils or crumbled tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and add extra beans or veggies for heartiness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You might want to add a splash of broth or water if it thickens up after refrigeration.