This Turkey Taco Soup is a warm and cozy meal, packed with lean turkey, beans, and tasty spices. It’s perfect for chilly days and easy to whip up!
I love how it fills the kitchen with a delicious smell while cooking. Plus, it’s great for leftovers or freezing! Nothing beats a quick, hearty soup for busy nights. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This lean meat helps keep the soup light yet filling. If you’re looking for an alternative, ground chicken or even plant-based ground beef can work well. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
Canned Black Beans: They add protein and fiber. If you’re not a fan of black beans, try kidney beans or pinto beans instead. You can also use dried beans—just ensure to soak and cook them beforehand!
Chicken Broth: It’s the base of the soup and adds flavor. If you need a lighter option, vegetable broth is a great substitute. Low-sodium options are also available if you’re watching your salt intake.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are essential for that taco flavor. If you’re out of either, consider smoked paprika and even taco seasoning as a mixed substitute. Just adjust according to your spice preference!
How Do I Perfectly Cook Ground Turkey for My Soup?
Cooking ground turkey requires just a few simple steps to achieve perfect flavor and texture. The key is to ensure it’s cooked well without drying it out. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with medium heat to avoid uneven cooking. Preheat your oil, then add your onions and garlic to build flavor before the turkey.
- Once added, break the turkey apart with a spoon. Cook until it’s completely browned, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the turkey while it cooks! Toss in spices at this stage to ensure they penetrate the meat for maximum flavor.
The turkey should be no longer pink but still moist. Enjoy your cooking!
Turkey Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen, canned, or fresh)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnish: shredded Mexican cheese, sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Turkey Taco Soup takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time, so you can enjoy a warm, hearty meal in just around 40 minutes! It’s perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep for the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the diced onion. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until you can smell its fragrant aroma.
2. Cook the Ground Turkey:
Next, add the ground turkey to the pot. Cook the turkey for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Make sure it’s cooked through and no longer pink. This is a great time to add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and cook for 1 more minute to toast the spices and bring out their flavors.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), black beans, corn, and chicken broth to the mixture. Stir everything together until well combined. Raise the heat to bring the soup to a boil.
4. Simmer the Soup:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. This will allow all the delicious flavors to meld together beautifully. Feel free to taste the soup after about 15 minutes and adjust the seasonings if needed.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and top with your choice of shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, chopped cilantro, and diced avocado. Enjoy your hearty, flavorful Turkey Taco Soup!
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef for turkey if you prefer a richer flavor. Just be mindful that beef may have a bit more fat, so you might want to drain some excess fat after browning the meat.
How Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
If you like a kick of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or even some taco sauce while it’s cooking. Adjust the spice level to your taste!
Can I Freeze Leftover Turkey Taco Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes wonderfully! To store, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What Can I Serve With Turkey Taco Soup?
Try serving it with side items like tortilla chips, cornbread, or a fresh salad. You could also top it with extra garnishes like lime wedges for a zesty finish!