This Turkey Taco Soup is a hearty and colorful dish full of flavor! With ground turkey, beans, and tasty spices, it’s a warm hug in a bowl.
Perfect for busy nights, this soup is simple to make and great for leftovers. Plus, nothing beats the comfort of tortilla chips on top—you’ll be going back for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Lean and easy to cook! You could substitute with ground chicken or beef if you prefer. For a healthier twist, try using lentils or a meat alternative for a vegetarian option.
Beans: Black beans add texture and protein. If you’re out of black beans, pinto or kidney beans work well too! You can even skip the beans if you want a lighter soup.
Corn: Fresh corn gives a sweet crunch, but frozen or canned corn are great backups! If corn isn’t your thing, feel free to leave it out or use chopped bell peppers instead.
Spices: The chili powder and cumin really elevate the flavor. If you’re sensitive to spices, reduce their amount or substitute with taco seasoning for a convenient option. Don’t forget to adjust according to your taste!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor When Cooking Ground Turkey?
Cooking ground turkey can be tricky, but here’s how to make it juicy and flavorful. The key is to brown the meat properly and season it as it cooks.
- First, heat your olive oil before adding the onions to build a flavor base.
- Add the ground turkey to the hot pot and break it apart with a spoon, ensuring it cooks evenly. A little patience helps it brown nicely.
- Don’t skip the seasoning! Add salt and pepper and stir in your spices when the turkey is mostly cooked. This helps the flavors meld into the meat.
Following these steps will give you a deliciously rich base for your soup!
Turkey Taco Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for topping
- Sour cream, for topping
- Optional: diced avocado, tortilla chips, lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time, making a total of about 40 minutes to enjoy a delicious and warm bowl of soup. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This will create a flavorful base for your soup.
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook it for another 30 seconds until it gets fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Brown the Turkey:
Add the ground turkey to the pot and break it up using a spoon. Cook the turkey for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and no longer pink inside. Make sure to season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
4. Spice It Up:
Once the turkey is cooked, sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Stir everything together so the spices coat the meat and onions evenly, letting those flavors mingle.
5. Bring in the Rest:
Now, pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, black beans, corn, and chicken broth. Give it a good stir to combine all the ingredients.
6. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. This is where the soup gets thick and the flavors come together beautifully!
7. Taste and Adjust:
After it’s done simmering, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little more salt, pepper, or chili powder can really bring it all together!
8. Serve Hot:
Dish up the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro, shredded cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream. Feel free to get creative with your toppings!
9. Enjoy with Extras:
If you like, add some diced avocado on top and serve with crunchy tortilla chips and lime wedges for an extra taco flair. Enjoy your warm and hearty Turkey Taco Soup!
Can I Use Leaner Turkey for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use extra lean ground turkey if you prefer a lower-fat option. Just be mindful that it may need a little extra seasoning, as it can be less flavorful than regular ground turkey.
Can I Freeze Leftover Turkey Taco Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes beautifully! 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. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
How Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
If you like more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce when cooking. You can also increase the amount of chili powder or add cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
What Can I Serve with Turkey Taco Soup?
This soup is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with tortilla chips, a fresh salad, or even cornbread for a heartier meal. It’s great with lime wedges for that zesty touch too!
