If you’re craving something comforting, hearty, and healthy, look no further than ground turkey taco soup. This dish has all the flavors of a taco, but in soup form-rich, savory, and with just the right balance of spice and creaminess. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and easy to make, whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, something to meal prep for the week, or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this turkey taco soup recipe is your perfect solution. Packed with lean protein from the turkey, fiber from beans, and just the right kick from seasonings, it’s a meal that satisfies both the stomach and the taste buds.
In this post, we’ll dive into the recipe and break it down step by step, so you can whip up this flavorful soup with ease. Let’s go ahead and dig into the details of what makes this recipe so good, including the ingredients, cooking tips, and possible variations that can take it from tasty to extraordinary.
Ground Turkey Taco Soup Recipe
This ground turkey taco soup is one of those dishes that’s not just easy to make-it’s a real crowd-pleaser too! Imagine your favorite taco filling, simmered with flavorful broth, beans, tomatoes, and spices to create a hearty and comforting soup that will warm you from the inside out. The ground turkey offers lean protein while still absorbing all the delicious spices that make tacos so irresistible. The best part? It’s made in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze.
Ingredients Needed
To make this turkey taco soup, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll want to gather before you begin:
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Ground Turkey (1 Lb)
Ground turkey is the lean protein star of this dish. It’s low in fat but packed with flavor, making it an excellent alternative to beef. It absorbs all the spices wonderfully, giving the soup a savory depth.
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Onion (1 Medium)
Diced onion provides a sweet, savory base that enhances the overall flavor. It also brings some texture to the soup.
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Garlic (3 Cloves, Minced)
Garlic is essential for giving the soup that aromatic base that takes it to the next level. It’s warm, spicy, and just makes everything taste better.
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Canned Diced Tomatoes (1 Can, 14.5 Oz)
Tomatoes create the base of the soup’s liquid, giving it that satisfying broth texture. The slight acidity balances the richness of the turkey.
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Canned Kidney Beans (1 Can, 15 Oz), Drained And Rinsed
Beans add fiber, texture, and a little bit of earthy flavor that perfectly complements the other ingredients. You can use any beans you like (black beans or pinto beans also work great).
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Corn (1 Cup, Frozen Or Canned)
Sweet corn adds a pop of color and texture. It also provides a subtle sweetness that balances the savory notes of the turkey and spices.
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Chicken Broth (4 Cups)
The broth is essential for creating that lovely soup base, and the chicken flavor pairs well with turkey.
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Taco Seasoning (2 Tbsp)
A blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. This is where the taco flavors really shine, so you can use your favorite store-bought mix or make your own.
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Salt And Pepper (to Taste)
These simple seasonings help elevate the flavors and balance everything out.
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Lime (for Garnish)
A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a tangy twist.
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Chopped Fresh Cilantro (for Garnish)
Cilantro adds a fresh, herbaceous finish that lifts the whole dish. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it, but it really ties everything together.
Cooking Instructions
Making this turkey taco soup couldn’t be easier. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you to soup perfection:
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Cook The Ground Turkey
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the turkey is browned, remove any excess fat if necessary.
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Sauté The Onion And Garlic
- Add the diced onion to the pot with the turkey and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
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Add The Tomatoes And Beans
- Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the drained beans. Mix well.
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Season The Soup
- Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the turkey and veggies with the spices.
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Pour In The Broth And Corn
- Add the chicken broth and corn to the pot. Stir everything together, and bring the soup to a boil.
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Simmer The Soup
- Once it boils, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
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Taste And Adjust
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If you prefer more heat, you can add a dash of hot sauce or some chili flakes at this point.
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Serve And Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with fresh cilantro and a wedge of lime on the side. A dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese also makes a great topping if you like.
Ingredient Insights
Understanding the ingredients you’re working with can take your cooking to the next level. Let’s break down a few key elements in this soup:
- Ground Turkey: This lean protein is a great choice for a healthier taco soup. Unlike beef, it’s lower in fat but still absorbs flavors beautifully. You could swap it for ground chicken or even ground beef if you prefer, but turkey is the healthier option.
- Beans: Beans are an excellent source of fiber and plant-based protein. They also help make the soup more filling and hearty. Kidney beans, in particular, have a nice texture that holds up well in soup. If you’re using black beans or pinto beans, those will work too!
- Taco Seasoning: A great taco seasoning brings the flavor of this dish to life. If you’re using a store-bought mix, make sure to check for added salt or preservatives. You can always create your own mix by combining chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. It’s simple, but it packs a punch.
- Corn: Sweet corn adds a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the spiciness of the taco seasoning. Plus, it adds texture and bright color.
Expert Tips
To make sure you get the best possible version of this turkey taco soup, here are a few tips from the pros:
- Brown the Meat Well: Don’t rush the browning process. Let the turkey brown properly to develop that rich, savory flavor. If the turkey is too pale, your soup will miss out on depth.
- Simmer for Flavor: The longer you let the soup simmer, the more the flavors will blend and deepen. Don’t be afraid to let it cook for a little longer if you have the time.
- Add Heat (If You Want It): If you like spicy food, throw in some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to give the soup an extra kick. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
- Layer the Garnishes: Don’t skip the lime and cilantro. The acidity of lime cuts through the richness, while cilantro adds a burst of freshness. A dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese can add creaminess, too!
Recipe Variations
One of the best things about this soup is how easily it can be customized. Here are a few variations to suit your taste:
- Swap the Protein: If you’re not a fan of turkey, you can use ground chicken, lean ground beef, or even crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Go Keto: For a keto-friendly option, swap out the beans and corn for extra vegetables, like zucchini, cauliflower, or bell peppers. This will keep the soup hearty without the carbs.
- Spicy Turkey Taco Soup: Add diced green chilies, a few dashes of hot sauce, or throw in a finely chopped jalapeño for a spicier soup.
- Slow Cooker Version: Brown the turkey and onion first, then throw everything into the slow cooker. Set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This is perfect for busy days!
Final Words
This ground turkey taco soup is an absolute winner when it comes to flavor, ease of preparation, and versatility. Whether you’re serving it for dinner on a chilly night, prepping it for lunch, or bringing it to a party, it’s bound to impress. It’s an all-in-one dish that checks all the boxes: hearty, healthy, and bursting with the bold, savory flavors we all love.