This Turkey Taco Soup is a tasty and filling dish packed with lean turkey, beans, and veggies. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl—perfect for cozy nights!
I love how easy it is to make! Just throw everything in one pot and let it simmer. Plus, it’s a great way to get in some healthy ingredients without feeling guilty. Enjoy! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey is the base of this soup, making it healthier than traditional beef. If you’re looking for a substitution, you can use ground chicken or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option.
Yellow Onion: This is key for flavor. While I prefer yellow onions for their sweetness, you can use white onions if you prefer a sharper taste or shallots for a milder flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the dish. If fresh isn’t available, garlic powder works too—about 1/8 teaspoon per clove. However, nothing beats the aroma of fresh garlic cooking!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes add richness. If you’re out of canned, fresh tomatoes can be used, just chop a few cups and simmer longer to break them down.
Beans: Black beans give texture and nutrition. Swap them with pinto beans, kidney beans, or any favorite variety, adding extra protein and fiber.
Corn: Fresh, frozen, or canned corn all work well. I usually opt for frozen corn as it’s usually sweeter and super convenient!
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Flavor Those Spices Shine?
The spices are what elevate this soup to delicious heights! Here’s how to make sure they stand out:
- Toast the spices: When you add the chili powder, cumin, and paprika, let them cook for about a minute to release their essential oils.
- Adjust to taste: After simmering, taste your soup. Feel free to add more spices if you want a bolder flavor!
- Balance acidity: If the soup tastes a bit off, a squeeze of lime juice can freshen up the flavors.
Following these steps helps to create a rich flavor profile that you and your family will love!
Turkey Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For Topping:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving)
- Shredded cheddar cheese (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing this Turkey Taco Soup takes about 15 minutes. Then, give it approximately 20-25 minutes to simmer. So, in total, you will need around 40 minutes to have a delicious bowl of soup ready to eat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s softened and slightly translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
2. Cook the Ground Turkey:
Add the ground turkey to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Stir and cook until the turkey is browned and no longer pink, which should take around 5-7 minutes. Remember to season it with salt and pepper to taste!
3. Toast the Spices:
Once the turkey is cooked, sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Stir well and let them cook for about 1 minute to release their flavors. It’ll smell amazing!
4. Add Tomato Paste:
Next, stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, allowing it to cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring frequently. This adds richness to your soup.
5. Combine Ingredients:
Now, add in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, black beans, and corn. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
6. Simmer:
Bring the soup to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
7. Final Touches:
After simmering, do a quick taste test! Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Serving your Turkey Taco Soup is the best part! Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top each one with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, and fresh chopped cilantro. Enjoy this warm, comforting meal with your loved ones!
This hearty Turkey Taco Soup is not just flavorful—it’s the perfect dish for cozy nights and gatherings alike! 🌮
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef for turkey if you prefer. Just keep in mind that beef will add more fat, so you may want to drain any excess grease after cooking.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian! Simply replace the ground turkey with a plant-based meat alternative or skip it altogether. Increase the amount of beans and add extra veggies for more texture and protein.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Add More Veggies?
Definitely! Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even kale. Just chop them up and add them in with the other ingredients for a boost of nutrition and flavor!
