Keto Taco Soup is a delicious and hearty meal that’s packed with bold flavors and perfect for anyone watching their carbs. This soup combines ground beef or turkey, flavorful taco spices, tomatoes, and plenty of fresh veggies like peppers and onions. It’s warm, comforting, and full of that classic taco taste you love, but without the tortilla or beans to keep it low-carb.
I love making this soup on busy weeknights because it comes together quickly and always feels like a special treat. One of my favorite tricks is to add a handful of shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream right before serving to make it extra creamy and satisfying. Plus, it reheats beautifully, so I often make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week.
When I serve Keto Taco Soup, I like to top it with some fresh avocado slices, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a little extra brightness. It’s become a family favorite because it hits all the right spots for flavor and comfort, especially on chilly days. If you’re looking for a simple, tasty, and filling keto meal, this soup is definitely one to keep in your recipe collection!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: Using 85% lean beef gives a good balance of flavor and fat. You can swap in ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, but it may be less rich.
Tomatoes: Choose canned diced tomatoes without added sugar for keto-friendly sweetness. Fresh tomatoes can also work but may change the texture.
Heavy cream: This adds creaminess and richness. If you want a dairy-free option, try canned coconut milk instead.
Spinach or kale: Both add nutrients and a pop of color. Spinach wilts quicker, while kale takes a bit longer but adds texture.
Seasonings (chili powder, cumin, paprika): These give the classic taco flavor. Feel free to adjust amounts if you like it more or less spicy.
How Do I Get Tender and Flavorful Ground Beef for the Soup?
Cooking the beef right is key to great flavor and texture in the soup.
- Start by heating oil over medium heat before adding onion and garlic.
- Cook beef in batches if needed to avoid crowding the pan—this prevents steaming and ensures browning.
- Brown the beef well for more flavor, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Drain extra grease if there’s too much, but keep some fat for flavor.
- Then add your spices directly to the beef to toast and enhance their aroma before adding liquids.
This method builds a rich base for the soup and prevents bland or rubbery meat, making your Keto Taco Soup really satisfying.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – perfect for browning beef and simmering the soup all in one pot.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – makes stirring easy and won’t scratch your pot.
- Chef’s knife – sharp knife helps you dice onions, peppers, and chop greens quickly and safely.
- Cutting board – a stable surface for chopping vegetables without mess.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to get the spices and liquids just right for balanced flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option that still soaks up spices well.
- Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when you want more heat and spice.
- Mix in chopped mushrooms for extra umami and a bit more texture without adding carbs.
- Stir in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for a melty, creamy twist.
Keto Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional, low-carb choice like green or red)
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (no added sugar)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend cheese
- Fresh avocado slices
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Sliced cherry tomatoes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Keto Taco Soup recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes for cooking, making it ready in about 40 minutes total. It’s a quick and satisfying keto-friendly meal perfect for busy days or cozy nights.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Vegetables and Beef:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Next, add the minced garlic and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. If there’s extra fat, you can drain it. Stir in the diced bell pepper and sauté for another 2 minutes.
2. Add Seasonings and Liquids:
Sprinkle the chili powder, paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper over the beef and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly with spices. Then, add the canned diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3. Simmer and Finish the Soup:
Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully. After that, stir in the chopped spinach or kale and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the greens have wilted. Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the heavy cream, warming the soup without boiling it. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings like a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, fresh avocado slices, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Add sliced cherry tomatoes if you like a fresh touch. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Keto Taco Soup!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for Keto Taco Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave before cooking. This helps it brown evenly and prevents excess moisture in the soup.
Can I Make Keto Taco Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors develop. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.
What Are Good Low-Carb Toppings for Keto Taco Soup?
Classic toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado slices, and fresh cilantro are perfect keto-friendly choices. Avoid high-carb toppings like tortilla chips or beans to keep it low-carb.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with Something Else?
You can substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk to make the soup dairy-free. It will add a slightly different flavor but still keeps the creamy texture keto-friendly.
