High Protein Creamy Taco Soup

Name: High Protein Creamy Taco Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground turkey or chicken; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 1 can black beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed; 8 oz cream cheese, cubed; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

Published: November 11, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

High in Protein: Packed with lean turkey or chicken, this soup helps you meet your daily protein needs.
Creamy Texture: The addition of cream cheese creates a rich and satisfying mouthfeel that enhances every spoonful.
Quick Preparation: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Spices: Taco seasoning and other spices deliver an exciting taste that elevates ordinary soup to extraordinary.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or toppings for added nutrition and flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this high protein creamy taco soup, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups/spoons
Can opener

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Ideal for cooking everything in one place while allowing ample space for stirring.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for mixing ingredients without scratching your pot’s surface.
Measuring cups/spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient amounts for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful high protein creamy taco soup:

For the Soup Base

1 lb (450g) lean ground turkey or chicken
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (10 oz) can green chilies (optional)
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

For Creaminess and Flavor

8 oz cream cheese, cubed
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make High Protein Creamy Taco Soup

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey or chicken and cook until browned.

Step 2: Add Seasonings

Add taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the meat thoroughly.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the diced tomatoes, green chilies (if using), black beans, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Simmer with Cream Cheese

Bring the mixture to a simmer. Then add the cubed cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese melts completely and the soup becomes creamy.

Step 5: Melt the Cheddar Cheese

Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the pot. Stir continuously until melted and smooth for an extra cheesy flavor.

Step 6: Taste Test

Taste your soup! Adjust seasoning if needed to suit your preferences.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Serve hot, garnished with sour cream, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime if desired for added brightness.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy high protein taco soup that’s sure to be a hit at any table!

How to Serve High Protein Creamy Taco Soup

Serving your High Protein Creamy Taco Soup can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that pair well with this hearty dish.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the spices in the soup.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a burst of freshness and enhances the flavor profile.
Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the soup and adds acidity.

Pair with Crunchy Toppings

Tortilla Chips: Crispy tortilla chips provide a satisfying crunch and can be used for dipping.
Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and balances the flavors nicely.
Shredded Lettuce: Adding shredded lettuce gives a refreshing crunch and a pop of color.

Enjoy as Part of a Meal

Serve with Rice: A side of rice can make this soup more filling and absorb the delicious broth.
Accompany with Cornbread: Warm cornbread complements the soup’s flavors and texture perfectly.

How to Perfect High Protein Creamy Taco Soup

To elevate your High Protein Creamy Taco Soup, consider these helpful tips for achieving an even better result.

Bold seasoning: Ensure you use enough taco seasoning to fully infuse the meat and broth with flavor.
Customize your veggies: Feel free to add corn or bell peppers for extra nutrition and texture.
Control creaminess: Adjust the amount of cream cheese for your desired level of creaminess in the soup.
Simmer longer for depth: Letting the soup simmer longer allows flavors to meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Creamy Taco Soup

Complementing your High Protein Creamy Taco Soup with side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

Cornbread: Sweet, buttery cornbread pairs well with savory soup, making it more filling.
Mexican Rice: Flavored rice is a classic accompaniment that complements the taco flavors in the soup.
Guacamole: Creamy guacamole offers a rich contrast to the spicy soup and is perfect for dipping chips.
Chips and Salsa: A crunchy snack that adds a fresh kick before enjoying your main dish.
Garden Salad: A light salad provides freshness, balancing out the richness of the creamy soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables offer additional nutrients while enhancing flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your cooking experience. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of when making High Protein Creamy Taco Soup:

Skipping the Browning Step: Failing to brown the meat properly can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always cook the ground turkey or chicken until it’s nicely browned for depth of flavor.
Using Regular Taco Seasoning: Some store-bought taco seasonings can be very salty or filled with additives. Opt for low-sodium options or make your own seasoning blend to control the flavors.
Not Adjusting Consistency: If your soup is too thick, you may need more broth. Conversely, if it’s too thin, allow it to simmer longer. Always check the consistency before serving.
Rushing the Cream Cheese Addition: Adding cream cheese too quickly can cause clumps. Ensure it’s cubed and let it melt gradually for a smooth texture.
Forgetting Seasoning Adjustments: Taste your soup before serving! You may need extra salt, pepper, or spices based on personal preference.
Neglecting Toppings: Toppings like sour cream or cilantro enhance flavor and presentation. Don’t skip these finishing touches for a complete dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover High Protein Creamy Taco Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing High Protein Creamy Taco Soup

Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2-3 months.
Consider portioning into single servings for easy meal prep.

Reheating High Protein Creamy Taco Soup

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on medium power in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot, stirring in between.
Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about High Protein Creamy Taco Soup:

Can I substitute ground turkey with another protein?

Yes! You can easily swap ground turkey for lean ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based alternatives.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

If you want a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for similar creaminess.

How long does High Protein Creamy Taco Soup last in the fridge?

This delicious soup will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when stored properly.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup is perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time. Just reheat before serving!

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes! You can freeze High Protein Creamy Taco Soup for up to 2-3 months without losing its flavor or texture.

Final Thoughts

High Protein Creamy Taco Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. Perfect as a cozy dinner or meal prep option, this dish allows customization with various toppings and ingredients. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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