Keto Taco Soup
Keto Taco Soup is a comforting, hearty bowl packed with flavors you love from classic tacos but made low-carb and full of satisfying ingredients like ground beef, diced tomatoes, cheese,…
Tip: save now, cook later.Keto Taco Soup is a comforting, hearty bowl packed with flavors you love from classic tacos but made low-carb and full of satisfying ingredients like ground beef, diced tomatoes, cheese, and plenty of spices. It’s like a warm hug on a chilly day, with all the zest and spice that make tacos so fun to eat.
I always appreciate how easy this soup is to whip up and how it fills the house with the smell of cumin and chili powder. I like to add a dollop of sour cream and some fresh cilantro on top—it just brings everything together perfectly. Plus, it’s one of those meals that feels special even on a busy weeknight.
Serving this soup with crunchy tortilla chips made from cheese or a handful of avocado slices makes it extra tasty and keeps things keto-friendly. I find it’s great for meal prep, too, because the flavors get even better the next day. It’s a crowd-pleaser and a comfort food staple I come back to often.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the base of the soup, giving it rich flavor and protein. For variety, try ground turkey or chicken—they’ll lighten the dish but keep it tasty.
Diced Tomatoes: Adds acidity and a bit of sweetness. If you prefer less tomato, reduce or swap for roasted red peppers for a different twist.
Heavy Cream: Creates a creamy texture that balances the spices. Coconut cream is a good dairy-free option if needed.
Cheese: Cheddar melts nicely and adds sharpness. You can use Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for a milder flavor.
Avocado & Sour Cream: These toppings bring creaminess and freshness. Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a lighter choice.
How Do You Build Deep Taco Flavors in the Soup?
To get a rich and balanced taco flavor:
- Cook ground beef until nicely browned—to develop a deep meaty taste.
- Sauté onions and garlic with spices to release their aroma before adding liquids.
- Toast spices briefly in the pot; this helps unlock their full flavor.
- Let the soup simmer uncovered after adding tomatoes and broth to let flavors blend and concentrate.
- Finish with cream and cheese to add richness and smoothness that tie everything together.
Taking these steps patiently will give your soup a satisfying, layered taste that’s both comforting and bold.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – perfect for browning meat and simmering the soup all in one.
- Spoon or spatula – to stir and break up the ground beef easily.
- Measuring spoons – helps you add the right amount of spices without guessing.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping onions, garlic, and slicing avocado toppings.
- Ladle – to serve the soup neatly into bowls without spilling.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.
- Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you love extra heat.
- Stir in chopped spinach or kale near the end for a boost of greens.
- Top with crumbled queso fresco or shredded pepper jack cheese for different cheese flavors.
How to Make Keto Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- ¼ cup sour cream (for topping)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Keto Taco Soup takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend 15-20 minutes browning the beef and simmering the soup so the flavors blend nicely. Preparing toppings and serving will take another 5-10 minutes. It’s a quick, comforting meal great for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into small pieces, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat to keep it light and healthy.
2. Add Aromatics:
To the pot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté everything together until the onion is soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Season the Meat:
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for about 1 minute to release the spices’ flavors.
4. Add Tomatoes and Broth:
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, beef broth, and the tomato paste. Stir well to combine. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for 10 minutes so the flavors can come together nicely.
5. Finish with Cream and Cheese:
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for another 5 minutes to slightly thicken the soup. Then add ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and well blended in.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream, some extra shredded cheese, and chopped cilantro. Add lime wedges on the side if you like a little tangy brightness.
Enjoy your warm, creamy, and delicious Keto Taco Soup!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and is a leaner option. Cook it the same way as beef, just be sure to break it up nicely and adjust seasoning to taste.
How Can I Store Leftover Keto Taco Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also freeze the soup for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Yes! Swap heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use a dairy-free cheese substitute or simply omit the cheese and garnish with avocado and cilantro for extra flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Add More Heat?
If you like spicy, add diced jalapeños while sautéing onions or stir in some hot sauce or cayenne pepper with your spices to give your soup an extra kick.