Looking for a hearty, flavorful soup that won’t derail your keto goals? Well, you’ve just stumbled upon your new favorite recipe! This Keto Taco Soup is the ultimate comfort food, bursting with all the bold, zesty taco flavors you love—without the carbs. Whether you’re a seasoned keto pro or just dipping your toes into the low-carb waters, this soup is a total game-changer. It’s creamy, cheesy, and so easy to make, you’ll be wondering why you didn’t try it sooner.
But wait—there’s more! We’ve got all the tips you need to customize this soup to your exact taste, plus the secret to making it in your slow cooker, Instant Pot, or even on the stovetop. Stick around because we’ve got some seriously delicious ideas on what to serve alongside this tasty bowl of goodness, and don’t miss our helpful hacks for making it your own.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your spoon (and maybe a napkin, because it’s going to get messy), and let’s dive into this tasty taco dream! Keep reading for all the delicious details—you’ll be glad you did!
Table of Contents
What Sets Keto Taco Soup Apart?
Unlike traditional soups, which often rely on high-carb ingredients like beans or starchy thickeners, Keto Taco Soup is specifically designed to keep carbs low while maintaining rich, hearty flavors. Here’s why it stands out:
- Rich, Creamy Texture: A combination of cream cheese and heavy cream creates a velvety base that feels indulgent.
- Bold Taco Flavors: Spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder bring the essence of tacos into every spoonful.
- Customizable Garnishes: From diced avocado to lime wedges, you can tailor the toppings to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Alright, let’s talk about what goes into this magical pot of Keto Taco Soup. Trust us, the ingredients are as fun as they are flavorful. You’ve got the basics for a rich, creamy, taco-flavored masterpiece—and then we’ll show you how to get creative with a few optional add-ins that’ll take your soup to the next level.
Core Ingredients (The Taco Soup)
These are the essentials that make your soup creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-tasty:
- Ground beef: The hearty base of your soup. You can go with lean ground beef or a fattier cut—either way, it’s the perfect taco filling.
- Taco seasoning: The secret to that bold taco flavor we all crave. You can go store-bought or make your own mix with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Garlic & onion: Because every good soup starts with these savory powerhouses!
- Broth: We’re talking about beef or chicken broth here—something to keep things rich and flavorful.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend. It melts into that creamy goodness you’re after.
- Heavy cream: The magic ingredient that gives the soup its velvety, smooth texture. (Oh yes, this is where the creaminess comes from!)
Optional Add-Ins (For a Little Extra Zing)
Feel free to get a little extra with these add-ins! They’ll turn your already delicious soup into something even more crave-worthy:
- Avocado: For a creamy, fresh twist.
- Sour cream: A dollop on top adds a tangy kick!
- Jalapeños: Spice it up! Fresh or pickled, they bring the heat.
- Cilantro: A sprinkle of this green goodness makes everything taste fresh.
- Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime right before serving gives that perfect citrus zing.
Ingredient Substitutions
We know, that sometimes you just need to swap a few things out based on what’s in your fridge or your dietary needs. Here are some easy substitutions:
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream, and choose a dairy-free cheese option.
- Meat Substitutes: Don’t want beef? No problem! Swap in ground chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Gluten-Free: This soup is naturally gluten-free, but make sure your taco seasoning doesn’t contain any hidden gluten (or make your own, just to be safe!).
How to Make Keto Taco Soup: The Fun, Flavorful Journey
Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready to go, it’s time to cook! Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with three different methods to make this delicious taco soup. Whether you’re in a hurry, ready to let your slow cooker work its magic, or you want a speedy Instant Pot solution, we’ve got the perfect option for you.
Stovetop Instructions (Quick & Easy)
If you’re craving your soup NOW (like, right now), the stovetop method is your best friend. It’s fast, easy, and oh-so-delicious.
- Brown the Beef: Start by cooking your ground beef in a large pot over medium heat until browned. Break it up into crumbles as it cooks.
- Add the Veggies: Cook until the onions and garlic become tender and aromatic, which should take around 2-3 minutes.
- Season It Up: Mix in your taco seasoning, along with any extra spices you enjoy! Allow it to cook for an additional minute to enhance the flavors.
- Add the Broth & Cream: Pour in the broth, then add your heavy cream. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.
- Simmer & Stir: Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you want it thicker, let it cook a little longer—if you prefer it more soupy, add a bit more broth.
- Cheese, Please!: Stir in the cheese until it melts into a creamy, gooey dream.
- Serve & Top: Ladle it into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like avocado, sour cream, or a sprinkle of cilantro.
Done! You’re ready to eat.
Slow Cooker Instructions (Set It & Forget It)
For those days when you just want to set it and forget it, the slow cooker is your best friend. This method will give your soup time to develop even deeper flavors while you go about your day.
- Brown the Beef: Before adding to the slow cooker, brown your ground beef in a pan and drain any excess fat.
- Add Everything to the Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, garlic, taco seasoning, broth, and heavy cream.
- Stir & Cook: Give it a good stir to combine, then set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours (or high for 3-4 hours).
- Add the Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, add the cheese and let it melt into the soup.
- Top It Off: Once it’s ready, scoop it into bowls and garnish to your heart’s content.
And voilà! Your soup is ready to go—just in time for dinner!
Instant Pot Instructions (Quick & Easy)
If you’re looking for a lightning-fast solution, the Instant Pot is here to save the day! Ready in about 30 minutes, this method gives you all the flavor without the wait.
- Brown the Beef: Turn the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled, then drain any excess fat.
- Add the Seasonings: Stir in the taco seasoning, garlic, and onion. Let it cook for a minute to let the spices bloom.
- Add the Broth & Cream: Pour in the broth and heavy cream, scraping the bottom of the pot to get up any flavorful bits.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid, make sure the valve is set to “Sealing,” and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Quick Release & Cheese: Once the timer goes off, perform a quick release to release the pressure. Open the lid, stir in the cheese, and let it melt.
- Garnish & Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings (avocado, sour cream, you name it!).
Tips and Notes: Your Keto Taco Soup Toolkit
Alright, let’s talk about how to make this soup perfectly yours. Whether you like it thick and creamy or a little spicier, we’ve got all the tips you need to tweak this recipe to fit your exact taste. Plus, we’ll share some savvy storage tips, because let’s be real—leftovers are a beautiful thing.
How to Adjust the Soup’s Thickness
Sometimes, you want your soup to feel more like a stew; other times, you want it a bit soupier. The great thing about this recipe is that you can easily customize the consistency to match your cravings!
- Too Thick? Add More Broth: If your soup is a little too creamy for your liking, just pour in a little more broth to thin it out.
- Too Thin? Add More Cream: If you like your soup extra creamy and rich, a splash of more heavy cream will do the trick. Alternatively, you could toss in a bit more shredded cheese!
Adjusting the Spice Level
We know everyone has their own spice tolerance. No need to sweat it! Here’s how to adjust your heat:
- Mild: Use a mild taco seasoning or leave out any extra heat (like jalapeños). You can also add a dollop of sour cream to cool things down.
- Medium: Use regular taco seasoning and toss in some diced mild green chilies or a pinch of cayenne for a little kick.
- Spicy: Crank up the heat with extra jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or even some chili powder. Feeling bold? Add in some red pepper flakes or a pinch of chipotle powder!
How to Store Leftovers
We love a good batch of leftovers, don’t you? Here’s how to keep your soup fresh for days:
- In the Fridge: Allow the soup to cool down fully, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4-5 days.
- In the Freezer: Want to freeze it? No problem! Divide the soup into freezer-safe containers and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure you leave a little room for expansion (you know, because liquids like to grow when they freeze!).
How Long Does the Soup Last After Cooking?
- Fridge: As mentioned, your keto taco soup will stay good in the fridge for 4-5 days. So, go ahead and make a big batch—you’ll have a few days of taco goodness to look forward to!
- Freezer: If you’re freezing it, your soup will be good for about 3 months. We bet it’ll be even better after a little time to meld those flavors!
Can You Freeze the Soup? Absolutely!
- Yes! Freezing taco soup is totally doable, and it’ll still taste amazing. Here’s what you need to know:
- Cool it first: Allow the soup to cool completely before storing in freezer-safe containers.
- Leave room: Liquids expand when frozen, so don’t fill the container all the way to the top.
- Reheat like a pro: Thaw the soup overnight in the fridge or reheat directly from frozen on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a bit more broth or cream when reheating if it thickens up too much.
Nutrition Information: The Low-Carb, High-Fat Dream
Let’s talk numbers, shall we? But don’t worry, these are the kind of numbers that will make you want to do a happy dance! This Keto Taco Soup is not only delicious but also perfectly suited for your low-carb, high-fat lifestyle. Ready for the breakdown? Here it is:
Per Serving (Approx.)
- Calories: 400-500 (depending on your cheese and cream game)
- Carbs: 5-7 grams (yep, that’s right, it’s so low-carb)
- Fat: 30-35 grams (hello, healthy fats!)
- Protein: 25-30 grams (hello, muscle fuel!)
What Makes This Soup Keto-Friendly?
- Low-Carb: With only 5-7 grams of carbs per serving, this soup is perfect for staying on track with your keto goals. That means you can enjoy a big bowl without worrying about wrecking your macros!
- High-Fat: Thanks to the heavy cream, cheese, and hearty beef, this soup packs a healthy dose of fat. It’s exactly what you need to keep you full, satisfied, and energized.
- Protein-Packed: With all that beef (or chicken, if you prefer), this soup also delivers a solid hit of protein. It’s the perfect balance for fueling your day!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace ground turkey or chicken with beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can easily replace beef in this recipe. Both options will provide a leaner protein source, but the flavor and texture may differ slightly. Make sure to adjust seasoning as needed to maintain the rich flavor profile.
Can I prepare this in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes, you can make this soup in either a slow cooker or Instant Pot. For the slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours, and for the Instant Pot, pressure cook for about 10 minutes for a quicker result. Both methods will result in a delicious, hearty soup.
Is taco soup high in carbs?
Taco soup is not high in carbs when prepared with keto-friendly ingredients. The soup contains only a small amount of carbs from ingredients like onions and broth, making it suitable for low-carb diets. For even fewer carbs, you can adjust the portion of certain ingredients to suit your needs.
Are tacos compatible with a keto lifestyle?
Traditional tacos made with tortillas are not typically keto-friendly due to their high carb content. However, you can make keto-friendly tacos using low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps as an alternative. This allows you to enjoy taco flavors without exceeding your carb limit.
What other soups are low-carb or keto-friendly?
Other keto-friendly soups include creamy cauliflower soup, broccoli cheddar soup, and chicken avocado soup. These soups are rich in healthy fats and low in carbs, making them perfect for those following a ketogenic lifestyle. You can also experiment with adding keto-friendly ingredients to classic soup recipes for a low-carb version.
What Else You May Like: More Keto Goodness
Craving more keto-friendly deliciousness to keep your taste buds dancing? We’ve got plenty of other low-carb, high-flavor recipes to keep you fueled and satisfied. Check out these mouthwatering ideas that pair perfectly with your Keto Taco Soup (or stand alone as the next big hit in your kitchen)!
More Keto Soups:
- Low-Carb Chicken Spinach Soup: Creamy, savory, and packed with nutrients—this one’s a must-try for soup lovers.
- Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup: If you’re a cheese fan (who isn’t?), this cheesy, creamy delight is your new best friend.
- Keto Zucchini Noodle Soup: A fresh, low-carb twist on traditional noodle soup—perfect for those who miss their pasta days!
- Keto Sausage and Kale Soup: Hearty, flavorful, and just the right amount of spice. Kale never tasted so good.
Other Keto Recipes:
- Keto Salad: perfect low-carb, high-protein meal with creamy avocado, tender chicken, and fresh veggie
- Keto Chicken Enchiladas: Warm, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. These enchiladas are a game-changer for your keto meal prep.
- Keto Cauliflower Fried Rice: A low-carb spin on a classic, with all the stir-fry flavor you crave.
- Keto Avocado Chicken Casserole: Creamy, cheesy, and avocado-packed—this casserole is perfect for meal prepping.
Your Keto Taco Soup Adventure Awaits!
And there you have it—your ultimate guide to making the most delicious, creamy, and keto-friendly taco soup around! Whether you’re cozying up for a quick dinner or prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to hit the spot every time. With its low-carb, high-fat goodness, you’ll feel satisfied and guilt-free while still enjoying the rich, comforting flavors of your favorite tacos.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, get cooking, and let the savory magic unfold. Don’t forget to experiment, make it your own, and share your creative tweaks with the community—because the only thing better than enjoying this soup is hearing about all the delicious variations you come up with!
Happy cooking, and here’s to many bowls of Keto Taco Soup ahead!
PrintKeto Taco Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
A creamy and flavorful low-carb soup inspired by classic taco flavors, featuring ground beef, cream cheese, and aromatic spices. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or family dinners.
Ingredients
Soup Base:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef
2 teaspoons sea salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon cumin
2 teaspoons chili powder
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 (10-ounce) cans diced tomatoes with green chilies
4 cups beef stock
1 cup heavy cream
Optional Garnishes:
Shredded cheddar cheese
Diced avocado
Fresh cilantro
Sour cream
Lime wedges
Low-carb tortilla chips
Instructions
Cook the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
Cook the Ground Beef
- Add ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up as it browns. Drain any excess grease.
Season the Meat
- Stir in salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder, cooking for 1–2 minutes to release their flavors.
Add the Creaminess
- Stir in softened cream cheese and allow it to melt completely.
Incorporate Liquids
- Add diced tomatoes, beef stock, and heavy cream. Mix thoroughly and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve and Garnish
- Ladle soup into bowls and top with shredded cheese, diced avocado, cilantro, or any preferred garnishes.
Notes
- Adjust spice levels to suit your taste by increasing chili powder or adding cayenne.
- For a thicker consistency, simmer the soup longer.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid clumps.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: keto
- Method: keto friendly
- Cuisine: asian
Nutrition
- Calories: 400-500 kcal
- Sugar: 2-3 grams
- Sodium: 700-800 mg
- Fat: 30-35 grams
- Saturated Fat: 12-14 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 15-18 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 5-7 grams
- Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Cholesterol: 60-80 mg
Keywords: Keto taco soup Low-carb taco soup Keto-friendly soup Easy keto soup Creamy taco soup Low-carb soup recipe Healthy taco soup Ground beef taco soup Keto soup with cheese Dairy-free taco soup Quick keto recipes Keto comfort food Keto-friendly dinner Low-carb dinner ideas Low-carb chili soup