This Turkey Taco Soup is a warm and hearty dish, perfect for cozying up on a chilly day. It’s packed with ground turkey, beans, and lots of tasty veggies. Yum!
I love how easy it is to make, and the best part is, you can top it with whatever you like—cheese, avocado, or even some crunchy tortilla chips! It’s a family favorite! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the star of the soup! If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, turkey is great. You could also use lean ground beef or shredded chicken if you prefer.
Onion and Garlic: These add essential flavor. Use yellow or white onion for a mild taste. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch—start with about 1/4 teaspoon.
Canned Ingredients: Black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes are easy to include. Feel free to swap with pinto beans or kidney beans. Fresh corn works too—just cook it beforehand!
Spices: The chili powder and cumin give it that taco flavor. If you’re spice-sensitive, reduce or eliminate the chili powder. You can also use taco seasoning instead of the individual spices!
How Do I Cook the Turkey Without It Becoming Dry?
Cooking ground turkey can be tricky since it can dry out if overcooked. Here are some tips:
- Use medium heat when cooking the turkey. This helps it brown without burning.
- Break the turkey into small crumbles. This aids even cooking and keeps it juicy.
- Don’t forget to stir and keep an eye on it! Aim for a nice, even brown color.
These steps will help ensure your turkey stays moist and flavorful in the soup!
Turkey Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn kernels, drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 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, chopped fresh cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Turkey Taco Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’ll only need about 40 minutes to make a delicious, hearty soup that’s perfect for any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. This will give the soup a nice base and help with cooking the turkey.
2. Cook the Turkey:
Add the ground turkey to the pot. Brown it for about 5-7 minutes, using a spoon to break it into crumbles as it cooks. You want it to be nice and brown!
3. Add Onion and Garlic:
Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook these together for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant. This is where your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
4. Spice It Up:
Now it’s time to add the spices! Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to let the spices bloom and fill the air with even more delightful aroma.
5. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Add the drained black beans, drained corn, the undrained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and tomato sauce to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine all the flavors together.
6. Bring it to a Boil:
Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. This will allow all the flavors to blend beautifully.
7. Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, taste your soup! Add more salt, pepper, or spices if you think it needs it. You want it to taste just right.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Turkey Taco Soup hot! Top it with some shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh chopped cilantro if you like. Enjoy your comforting and tasty creation!
Happy cooking, and enjoy this delicious Turkey Taco Soup with family or friends! 🌮🍲
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey with ground beef if you prefer. Just make sure to drain any excess fat after browning it to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
What Can I Add for Extra Heat?
If you like heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking the onions and garlic. You can also top the soup with sliced fresh jalapeños for an extra kick!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, Turkey Taco Soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.