This keto taco soup is a warm and tasty dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal! Packed with ground meat, zesty spices, and tons of veggies, it’s hearty and satisfying without the carbs.
I love how simple it is to make this soup! Just toss everything in a pot, let it simmer, and you have a delicious meal ready to go. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using ground beef because it gives the soup a rich and hearty flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well too, just keep an eye on the cooking time as they can cook more quickly.
Onion: A small diced onion adds sweetness and depth. If you’re sensitive to onions, try using shallots or green onions for a milder taste.
Garlic: Minced garlic gives a wonderful aroma and flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder: about 1/4 teaspoon for every clove.
Diced Tomatoes: Look for no-sugar-added canned tomatoes to keep it keto-friendly. You can swap them for fresh tomatoes if you prefer, just chop and add them in for a fresh touch.
Beef Broth: Low sodium beef broth is great for controlling salt levels. Vegetable broth or chicken broth can substitute if you prefer a different flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: I always go for sharp cheddar for the best flavor! If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste or use a non-dairy cheese alternative.
How Do You Make Sure Your Taco Soup is Full of Flavor?
The secret to a flavorful taco soup lies in the seasoning and preparation! Here’s how to enhance those flavors:
- Brown the meat and onions well. This caramelization brings out amazing flavors that blend beautifully in the soup.
- Mix your spices thoroughly with the meat and onions to coat them evenly. This ensures every bite is packed with taste!
- Allow the soup to simmer gently. This time is essential for melding the flavors. Don’t rush it – 20-25 minutes of simmering makes a big difference!
- Always taste your soup near the end. Adjusting salt, pepper, or spices can elevate your dish even more!
How to Make Keto Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (no added sugar)
- 2 cups beef broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 small jalapeño, diced (seeded, if less heat desired)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This keto taco soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 25 minutes to cook, making it a quick meal option. You can have a delicious, hearty soup ready in just 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat it over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion to the pot. Cook while stirring occasionally until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s too much fat, drain the excess to keep your soup from being greasy.
2. Add the Garlic:
Once the meat and onions are cooked, toss in the minced garlic. Cook it for another minute until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
3. Incorporate the Spices:
Next, stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly coat the beef and onions, making sure all those scrumptious spices are well distributed.
4. Combine the Soup Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the diced tomatoes (don’t forget to include the juices!), beef broth, and water. Give everything a good stir to combine.
5. If You Like It Spicy:
If you’re adding jalapeño for some heat, now’s the time! Stir it in and get ready for flavor.
6. Simmer to Perfection:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while the soup thickens slightly.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give your soup a taste before serving. Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or even more spices if you like!
8. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each serving with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese and fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
9. Enjoy!
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious keto-friendly taco soup! Feel free to enhance it with keto-friendly toppings like sour cream or avocado slices for an extra creamy treat!
This delicious soup not only fits perfectly into a keto lifestyle but also warms the soul on a chilly day. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to beef. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until it’s no longer pink, and adjust the seasoning if needed since turkey can be milder in flavor.
Can I Make This Soup in Advance?
Yes, this keto taco soup can be made ahead of time. Simply let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove before serving, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, defrost in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Soup?
Definitely! Feel free to add any keto-friendly vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just chop them up and add them to the pot when you add the tomatoes and broth for a nutritious boost!
