Cheesy Keto Taco Soup

Introduction: Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of soup that’s both rich in flavor and low in carbs? Look no further than this Cheesy Keto Taco Soup! This recipe combines the bold and spicy flavors of tacos with the creamy goodness of cheese, all in a hearty, low-carb soup that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Whether you’re on a keto diet, following a low-carb lifestyle, or simply looking for a filling, flavorful soup, this Cheesy Taco Soup is sure to satisfy.

With the combination of ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option), cheddar cheese, and a variety of spices and vegetables, this soup offers everything you love about tacos—without the carbs. This recipe is packed with protein and healthy fats, making it not only delicious but also filling. It’s quick to make, requires minimal prep, and can be enjoyed by the whole family. Plus, it’s a great option for meal prep, as it stores and reheats wonderfully.

Why Choose Cheesy Keto Taco Soup?

This Cheesy Keto Taco Soup is more than just a tasty dish. It’s an ideal choice for those following a keto or low-carb diet for several reasons:

1. Keto-Friendly: Traditional taco soup can be high in carbs due to the inclusion of beans, corn, and tortillas. However, this recipe replaces those ingredients with keto-friendly substitutes like cauliflower rice and broccoli, which are low in carbs but high in fiber, providing a nutritious base without spiking your blood sugar levels.
2. Protein-Rich: The combination of ground beef and cheese delivers an excellent dose of protein, helping you stay full longer and supporting muscle recovery and growth.
3. Customizable: You can easily adjust the protein (try ground chicken or turkey for a leaner version) or switch up the toppings to match your preferences. Add jalapeños for extra spice or top with sour cream and avocado for a creamy finish.
4. Comforting and Hearty: This soup is perfect for colder months, providing a rich, cheesy texture that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s the perfect dish to curl up with at the end of a long day.
5. Easy and Quick to Make: With minimal prep time and a quick cook time, this soup can be ready in under 45 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re in the mood for something hearty and satisfying.

Ingredients for Cheesy Keto Taco Soup

This recipe makes 6 servings. Below are the ingredients you’ll need to create your own Cheesy Keto Taco Soup:

For the Soup Base:

• Ground Beef: 1 lb (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (for cooking)
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Cauliflower Rice: 1 cup (or 1 small head of cauliflower, grated)
• Broccoli: 1 cup, chopped (optional for added texture and nutrition)
• Low-Sodium Beef Broth: 4 cups (or chicken broth for a lighter flavor)
• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
• Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5 oz) can, no sugar added
• Taco Seasoning: 2 tablespoons (sugar-free, or homemade)
• Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Cumin: 1 teaspoon
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (to taste)
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon (to taste)

For the Cheese Mixture:

• Cream Cheese: 4 oz (softened)
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 ½ cups (or a blend of Monterey Jack and Cheddar)
• Sour Cream: ¼ cup (optional, for extra creaminess)

For Toppings:

• Avocado: 1, diced (for a creamy finish)
• Shredded Cheese: ½ cup (optional, for garnish)
• Sour Cream: ¼ cup (optional, for garnish)
• Chopped Green Onions: 2-3 stalks, chopped (optional for garnish)
• Sliced Jalapeños: 1-2, sliced (optional for heat)
• Cilantro: Fresh, for garnish (optional)

Free Keto Meal Plan : KETO DIET PLAN FOR BEGINNERS STEP BY STEP GUIDE

Instructions for Making Cheesy Keto Taco Soup

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or ground turkey) and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the cooked meat. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the onions have softened and become translucent. This will release their natural sweetness and enhance the flavor of the soup.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Vegetables

Add the beef broth, tomato paste, and diced tomatoes (with juices) to the pot. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Add the cauliflower rice and broccoli, stirring them into the soup mixture. Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the cauliflower rice is tender and the flavors have melded together.

Step 4: Season the Soup

Stir in the taco seasoning, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If you like a spicier soup, feel free to add more chili powder or cayenne pepper.

Step 5: Add the Creamy Cheese Mixture

While the soup is simmering, make the creamy cheese mixture. In a separate bowl, soften the cream cheese by microwaving it for 20-30 seconds. Add shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream (if using) to the bowl, mixing until the cheese is smooth and well-combined.

Once the soup is done simmering, add the cheese mixture into the pot, stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the soup becomes creamy and velvety.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each serving with a dollop of sour cream, a few slices of avocado, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese, green onions, and cilantro. For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños on top.

Nutritional Information and WW SmartPoints Breakdown

This Cheesy Keto Taco Soup is packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making it a perfect meal for those on a Keto or low-carb diet. Below is the approximate nutritional information for 1 serving of the soup (based on 6 servings):

Per Serving:

• Calories: 380
• Total Fat: 29 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 12 grams
• Cholesterol: 80 mg
• Sodium: 900 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 8 grams
  • Fiber: 4 grams
  • Net Carbs: 4 grams
• Protein: 27 grams
• Calcium: 20% of Daily Value
• Iron: 12% of Daily Value

WW SmartPoints (Blue, Green, Purple Plans):

• 5 SmartPoints per serving

These 5 SmartPoints make this Cheesy Taco Soup an excellent option for those following Weight Watchers, particularly since it provides a substantial amount of protein and healthy fats while keeping the carbs and SmartPoints low.

Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Taco Soup

1. Vegetable Variations: While cauliflower rice and broccoli make for a great low-carb base, you can also use other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for a different texture or flavor profile.
2. Make it Spicy: If you love spicy food, try adding diced green chilies, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for an extra kick.
3. Meal Prep: This soup is great for meal prep! Make a big batch on Sunday and store it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months for a quick and easy keto-friendly meal.
4. Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a leaner version, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. These proteins still provide great flavor and will reduce the fat content of the soup.
5. Dairy-Free Option: For those who are dairy-sensitive, you can replace the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative (like coconut cream), and use a dairy-free cheese to make this soup dairy-free.

Free Keto Meal Plan : KETO DIET PLAN FOR BEGINNERS STEP BY STEP GUIDE

Conclusion

This Cheesy Keto Taco Soup is a rich, flavorful, and satisfying dish that will satisfy all your cravings for comfort food, without derailing your keto or low-carb lifestyle. With its creamy texture, bold taco seasonings, and healthy ingredients, it’s the perfect meal to make for a cozy evening or meal prep for the week ahead. Best of all, it’s customizable to suit your taste preferences, making it a go-to recipe for anyone on a keto or low-carb diet. Enjoy a bowl of this delicious soup and experience the ultimate in comfort food without the guilt!