Lightened Up Taco Soup Recipe

Introduction

This Lightened Up Taco Soup is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. It combines hearty ground beef with a blend of spices and a creamy finish, creating a rich yet lighter twist on classic taco soup.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup chopped onions
• 1/2 cup chopped green peppers
• 1 pound ground beef (organic, grass-fed recommended)
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 14.5oz can diced chilis and tomatoes
• 4 oz tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (optional for flavor)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon red pepper (optional for spicy heat)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, onions, and green peppers, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
2. Step 2: Add the ground beef and all the spices including chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper. Break down the beef with a meat chopper or spoon and cook for 3-4 minutes until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Step 3: Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes with chilis, and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine.
4. Step 4: Lower the heat to low. Cover and simmer the soup for 10-15 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Step 5: Remove the lid and stir in the heavy whipping cream if using. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
6. Step 6: Serve hot with your favorite taco toppings.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt just before serving.
• Add beans such as black beans or kidney beans for extra protein and fiber.
• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.
• Top with avocado, sour cream or Greek yogurt, jalapenos, shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, or crunchy Parmesan cheese whisps for added texture and flavor.

Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also freeze the soup for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth. Adding beans or lentils will provide protein and keep the soup hearty.

Is it okay to skip the cream?

Absolutely. The soup will still be delicious without the heavy cream, but it adds a nice richness. You can also use a dollop of Greek yogurt when serving instead.

Lightened Up Taco Soup Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 300 reviews

This Lightened Up Taco Soup is a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal perfect for any day of the week. Made with lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a blend of spices, it offers a satisfying taste while keeping the calories in check. The addition of a splash of heavy cream adds a rich, creamy texture, but it’s optional for those seeking a lighter option. Easy to prepare using just a Dutch oven, this taco soup can be customized with various toppings to suit your favorite flavors.

• Author: Logan
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican-inspired

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup chopped onions
• 1/2 cup chopped green peppers
• 1 pound ground beef (organic, grass fed)
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced chilis and tomatoes
• 4 oz tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon red pepper (optional for spicy)

Optional

• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

Toppings (Optional)

• Avocado
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Jalapenos
• Shredded cheese
• Crumbled bacon
• Crunchy Parmesan cheese whisps

Instructions

1. Heat the Dutch Oven: Place a Dutch oven on medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, chopped onions, and green peppers. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
2. Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef and the taco seasoning spices (chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, red pepper, salt, and pepper). Use a meat chopper or spatula to break down the beef as it cooks for 3-4 minutes until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the beef broth, diced chilis and tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the Dutch oven, and let the soup cook for 10-15 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Add Cream (Optional): Remove the lid and stir in the heavy whipping cream if using. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your choice of avocado, sour cream or Greek yogurt, jalapenos, shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, or Parmesan cheese whisps.

Notes

• Using a Dutch oven allows for all-in-one cooking and deep flavor development.
• The heavy whipping cream is optional but adds a creamy texture and richer flavor.
• For a spicier version, increase the red pepper or add jalapenos as a topping.
• To lighten the soup further, use low-fat or no-fat Greek yogurt in place of sour cream or cream.
• Drain any excess fat from the beef to keep the soup lower in fat.

Keywords: taco soup, lightened up soup, ground beef soup, one pot meal, Mexican soup, easy dinner