Keto Taco Soup
Keto Taco Soup is a delicious and hearty bowl full of bold taco flavors without any of the carbs from traditional beans or corn. It’s packed with ground beef, tomatoes,…
Tip: save now, cook later.Keto Taco Soup is a delicious and hearty bowl full of bold taco flavors without any of the carbs from traditional beans or corn. It’s packed with ground beef, tomatoes, cheese, and spices that come together into a warm, satisfying soup perfect for chilly days or anytime you want a cozy meal. The rich, meaty texture paired with melty cheese and zesty taco seasoning makes each spoonful really comforting.
I love making this soup when I want something quick but still tasty and filling. It’s one of those recipes where you can toss everything in one pot and let it simmer while you take care of other things. I like to add a little extra chili powder or cumin to kick up the spice, and a handful of fresh cilantro on top always brightens it up. Plus, it’s super easy to customize with whatever low-carb veggies you have on hand.
My favorite way to enjoy Keto Taco Soup is with a dollop of sour cream and some crunchy avocado slices. It feels like a taco in a bowl, but without the hassle of tortillas or chips. This soup has quickly become a staple in my meal rotation because it’s simple, flavorful, and keeps me feeling full for hours. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a tasty low-carb comfort food that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This adds rich flavor and protein. You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, but beef gives the best classic taco taste.
Heavy cream: It makes the soup creamy and smooth. If you want to cut calories a bit, full-fat coconut milk is a good dairy-free substitute.
Diced tomatoes: Choose canned tomatoes with no added sugar to keep it keto-friendly. Fresh tomatoes can be used too, but add them a bit later to avoid overcooking.
Cheddar cheese: Melting cheddar adds flavor and thickness. You can try Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend if you want a different taste.
Avocado and sour cream: These toppings add creaminess and a cool contrast. If you don’t have sour cream, plain Greek yogurt works well too.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from the Spices?
To really bring out the taco flavors, gently toast the spices with the cooked meat. Here’s how:
- Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper right after the meat is browned.
- Cook the spices for about 1 minute, stirring constantly so they don’t burn.
- This helps release their oils and boosts aroma and flavor in the soup.
Don’t rush this step—it makes a big difference in how deep and tasty your soup will be!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – perfect for browning meat and simmering the soup all in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Chef’s knife – essential for chopping onions, garlic, and garnishes like avocado and cilantro.
- Cutting board – keeps your prep area clean and safe while you chop ingredients.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter texture but similar flavor.
- Add chopped bell peppers or zucchini for extra low-carb veggies and crunch.
- Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper if you like your soup spicier.
- Top with crumbled queso fresco or shredded Monterey Jack cheese for a different cheesy twist.
How to Make Keto Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (no added sugar)
- 4 cups beef broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Toppings:
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Optional: diced fresh tomato for garnish
Time Needed:
This Keto Taco Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious, hearty meal ready in just around 35 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Onion and Garlic:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell its aroma.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, around 6-8 minutes. Drain any extra fat if necessary.
3. Add Seasonings:
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and bring out their flavors.
4. Simmer the Soup:
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the beef broth. Stir it all together and bring the soup to a boil. Then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes to blend all the flavors.
5. Add Cream and Cheese:
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts smoothly and the soup becomes creamy.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Give the soup a final taste and add more salt or spices if you want. Serve the soup hot, topped with slices of avocado, a dollop of sour cream, chopped cilantro, and fresh diced tomatoes if desired.
Enjoy your comforting, flavorful, low-carb Keto Taco Soup!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Soup?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the fridge overnight before cooking. Cooking frozen beef directly may result in uneven cooking.
Can I Make Keto Taco Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You might need to add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, it freezes well—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Are Good Low-Carb Toppings for This Soup?
Along with avocado and sour cream, try shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, jalapeño slices, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra flavor without adding carbs.