This Ground Turkey Taco Soup is a cozy bowl of goodness! It features lean turkey, beans, and tasty spices, making it both healthy and hearty. Perfect for a chilly day!
Cooking this soup is a breeze! I love how I can toss everything in one pot and let it simmer. Plus, the best part? Leftovers taste even better the next day! 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the star of the dish, offering a lean protein source. If you’re looking for alternatives, ground chicken or even lentils can work great for a meatless option.
Beans: The black and kidney beans add texture and protein. If you prefer, chickpeas or pinto beans can be good substitutes. Make sure to rinse them well to reduce sodium.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are essential for flavor. If you’re short on spices, taco seasoning packets can be an easy alternative. Adjust the amount based on your taste!
Broth: Chicken broth brings depth to the soup. Vegetable broth is a great swap if you need a lighter option or want to keep it vegetarian.
How Do I Best Sauté My Vegetables for Flavor?
Sautéing vegetables at the beginning enhances the soup’s overall flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium heat. Too hot can burn the veggies.
- Add oil to the pot, then toss in the onion and bell pepper first. Let them soften for about 4-5 minutes.
- Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.
- Once softened, add the garlic and stir for just 1 minute, so it doesn’t scorch.
Good sautéing creates a robust base for your soup!
Ground Turkey Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 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 kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen or canned corn kernels
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro or thyme sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ground Turkey Taco Soup will take approximately 10 minutes to prep and about 30-35 minutes to cook, including simmering time. It’s quick to whip up on a busy weeknight, and perfect for meal prep!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and green bell pepper. Sauté these for about 4-5 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.
2. Add Garlic
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot. Stir it in and cook for another minute—just enough time for the garlic to become aromatic without burning.
3. Brown the Turkey
Add the ground turkey to the pot, using a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Continue cooking until the turkey is browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it out carefully.
4. Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), black beans, kidney beans, corn, chicken broth, green chiles, and tomato paste. Mix everything well together—this will create a hearty soup base!
5. Season the Soup
Season the mixture with chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), and add salt and pepper to taste. Give the soup another good stir to ensure everything is well mixed.
6. Simmer to Perfection
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. This allows all the flavors to blend beautifully! Stir occasionally.
7. Taste and Adjust
After the soup has simmered, taste it to see if it needs anything more—maybe a dash of salt, or maybe more chili powder if you like it spicier!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the soup hot, and don’t forget to add your favorite toppings! Shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme can take this soup to the next level. Enjoy every warming spoonful!
This Ground Turkey Taco Soup is a wonderful blend of flavors and hearty ingredients. Perfect to warm you up on a chilly day! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground turkey is used in this recipe for a lean option, you can easily substitute it with ground chicken, lean beef, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens up too much.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes beautifully! Let it cool completely, then transfer to airtight freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Are Some Good Toppings?
Some great toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or tortilla chips for added crunch. Feel free to customize according to your taste!
