This Turkey Taco Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with juicy turkey, beans, corn, and plenty of spices, it’s both satisfying and healthy.
On chilly days, there’s nothing better than this soup. It’s easy to make and tastes even better the next day. I like to top mine with cheese and tortilla chips for a fun crunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the heart of the dish. It’s leaner than ground beef, making it healthier. If you prefer, you can substitute it with ground chicken or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version.
Diced Tomatoes: They add great flavor and texture. If you want a bolder taste, use fire-roasted diced tomatoes. You can also substitute fresh tomatoes if you have them on hand. Just chop them up and use about 2 cups.
Beans: Black beans are a great choice for added protein. You can swap them for kidney beans or chickpeas if you like. Canned versions are convenient, but soaking and cooking dried beans can add more depth of flavor!
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano are vital for that taco flavor. If you’re in a pinch, taco seasoning could work in place of the individual spices. Feel free to adjust the spices based on your heat preference!
How Can I Make Sure My Soup Has Great Flavor?
Developing flavor in soups is all about building layers. Start by sautéing the onion and jalapeño until they become soft. This process releases their natural sweetness and adds depth.
- After adding garlic, do not skip toasting the spices. This helps to intensify their flavors.
- Allow the soup to simmer—this is where the magic happens. Letting it simmer for 15-20 minutes gives the ingredients a chance to meld together for a delicious taste.
- Finally, don’t forget the lime juice! It brightens up the soup and balances the flavors beautifully.
Turkey Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced (optional for heat)
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- Sour cream (for topping)
- Tortilla chips (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Turkey Taco Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to cook, making it a speedy meal option. In total, you’ll need about 30-35 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add in the diced onion and jalapeño, if using. Sauté them together for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This creates a lovely base for your soup.
2. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. As the garlic heats, it releases a beautiful aroma. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Cook the Turkey:
Now, add the ground turkey to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Stir frequently until the turkey is no longer pink, which should take about 5-6 minutes.
4. Spice It Up:
Once the turkey is cooked through, stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let these spices cook for about 1 minute to toast them and bring out their flavor.
5. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Next, pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), black beans, corn, and chicken broth. Give everything a good stir to mix it well.
6. Simmer to Perfection:
Bring your soup to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This simmering time allows all the flavors to blend beautifully together.
7. Finish with Lime:
When the simmering is done, remove the soup from heat and stir in the juice of one lime. This adds a fresh, zesty finish to your dish!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. Don’t forget the tortilla chips on the side or perhaps crushed on top for that delightful crunch!
This Turkey Taco Soup is comforting, flavorful, and packed with good-for-you ingredients. Perfect for a busy weeknight, it’s a meal that everyone will love!
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground beef can be used in place of ground turkey for a richer flavor. Just be sure to drain the excess fat after cooking to keep the soup from being greasy.
Is This Soup Spicy?
The heat level can be easily adjusted! The jalapeño adds some spice, but you can omit it altogether or use less if you prefer a milder soup. Adding a dollop of sour cream also helps cool it down!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Cool the soup completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Should I Pair with the Soup?
This soup is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh salad or some warm cornbread for a complete meal. Also, toppings like avocado or sliced jalapeños add great flavor and texture!
