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Lightened Up Taco Soup Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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