This Turkey Taco Soup is a warm bowl of goodness! Packed with lean turkey, colorful veggies, and zesty spices, it’s perfect for cozy nights. Plus, it’s quick to make!
There’s something about slurping up a spicy broth that just feels right, doesn’t it? I love loading mine with toppings like cheese and avocado for that extra yum factor! 🥑🧀
It’s super easy to whip up, and you can make a big pot to share with family or freeze for later. It’s a hearty meal where everyone leaves happy and full!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is a lean option that keeps the soup light. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can substitute with ground beef or chicken. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or a mix of beans instead.
Black Beans: Packed with protein, black beans add creaminess. You can use kidney beans or pinto beans as a substitute if you want a different taste or look.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you could use garlic powder, but fresh really makes a difference in the taste!
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: These bring acidity and a bit of heat. If you like it mild, plain diced tomatoes work, and you can always add fresh jalapeños to taste.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin give this soup its taco flavor. Adjust the spices to your preference – add more chili powder for heat or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. For a spicy kick, include cayenne pepper!
How Can I Perfectly Sauté My Vegetables?
Sautéing vegetables properly sets the foundation for your soup’s flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot pan. Heating olive oil on medium heat before adding veggies is key.
- Add onions and bell pepper first. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they soften.
- When adding garlic, be careful not to let it burn. Just 30 seconds will add that incredible aroma!
- Don’t rush! Taking the time to sauté properly really enhances the flavors of the entire soup.
By following these steps, you’ll bring out the best in your vegetables, making your Turkey Taco Soup even better!
How to Make Delicious Turkey Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (or regular diced tomatoes)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Sliced avocado
- Lime wedges
Time Needed:
This delightful Turkey Taco Soup will take about 10 minutes to prep and roughly 30 minutes to cook, making for a total of about 40 minutes. So, in just under an hour, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, start by heating the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, sautéing them until they soften—this should take about 4-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep them from burning!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn, as that can change the flavor!
3. Brown the Turkey:
Add the ground turkey to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Keep stirring until the turkey is no longer pink, which should take around 5-7 minutes. You want it fully cooked and looking nice and browned!
4. Mix in the Remaining Ingredients:
Now it’s time to stir in the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Pour in the chicken broth and add the tomato paste. Give everything a good stir to mix it well!
5. Season the Soup:
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together to combine all the flavors nicely.
6. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly.
7. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you want a little more kick, add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
8. Serve with Toppings:
Ladle your delicious soup into bowls and get creative with the toppings! Add shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a squeeze of lime if you like.
9. Enjoy!
Your Turkey Taco Soup is ready to eat! Serve it warm and savor the tasty, comforting flavors. Enjoy!
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground beef will give the soup a richer flavor. Just be sure to drain off any excess fat after browning it, as turkey is much leaner!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground turkey with a mix of lentils, chickpeas, or other beans you love. You could also try adding extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for more texture.
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Yes! Turkey Taco Soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave.
What Can I Serve with Turkey Taco Soup?
This soup pairs nicely with tortilla chips, cornbread, or a simple side salad. For a complete meal, add some avocado slices or a side of Mexican rice!