Keto Taco Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for anyone following a low-carb lifestyle. It’s packed with ground beef, diced tomatoes, spicy taco seasoning, and plenty of cheese, all simmered together into a warm and comforting soup. The rich, zesty flavors make it feel like a taco night, but in a cozy, bowl-friendly form.
I love making this soup on chilly evenings because it’s quick to put together and fills up the whole kitchen with the smell of comforting spices. It’s one of those recipes I turn to when I want something satisfying without the extra carbs. I usually add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped green onions to make it feel special.
My favorite way to serve Keto Taco Soup is with a side of crunchy pork rinds or a few slices of avocado on top. It’s a great meal for sharing with family or friends who are also watching their carbs. This soup hits all the right notes—it’s warm, hearty, and full of classic taco flavors that never get old.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds hearty protein and richness. You can switch to ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, but beef gives the best flavor and fat content for keto.
Diced Tomatoes: They bring a fresh, tangy taste. If you want less liquid, use drained tomatoes or opt for fire-roasted for extra smoky flavor.
Heavy Cream: This makes the soup creamy and satisfying. If you want, coconut cream is a great non-dairy swap that still adds richness.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts nicely and adds a tasty, creamy texture. Monterey Jack or mozzarella work well too if you prefer a milder cheese.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and paprika shape the taco flavor. Feel free to adjust the heat by adding more cayenne or skipping it completely.
How Can You Make the Soup Rich and Flavorful without Thickeners?
This soup gets its creamy texture without flour or cornstarch, which keeps it keto-friendly. Here’s how:
- Brown the meat well: This builds deep flavor from caramelized bits on the pot’s bottom.
- Toast the spices: Cooking them briefly before adding liquids wakes up their aroma and taste.
- Simmer the soup: Letting it cook slowly helps flavors meld and liquids reduce slightly.
- Add heavy cream and cheese at the end: This thickens the soup naturally and gives it a rich mouthfeel.
Following these steps makes a flavorful, velvety soup without needing extra thickening agents.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – perfect for browning meat and simmering the soup all in one place.
- Spoon or spatula – handy for stirring and breaking up the ground beef as it cooks.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – you’ll need these for dicing onions and slicing avocado for garnish.
- Ladle – makes serving the soup into bowls easy and mess-free.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef – it’s lighter but still tasty and keto-friendly.
- Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat when you want a spicy kick.
- Mix in chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for some extra veggies and texture.
- Top with shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a different cheesy flavor.
How to Make Keto Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups beef broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 avocado, sliced (for garnish)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream, for serving
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to cook. Total time is just under 35 minutes, making it a great quick and satisfying meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Once cooked through, drain off any excess fat to keep it nice and lean.
2. Add Onions, Garlic, and Spices:
Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and smells fragrant. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper, then cook for another minute to bring out the spices’ flavors.
3. Pour in Tomatoes and Broth:
Add the diced tomatoes with their juices and the beef broth. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes so the flavors can blend and the soup thickens slightly.
4. Finish with Cream and Cheese:
Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with slices of avocado, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh chopped cilantro for a delicious finish.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Soup?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps it brown evenly and prevents excess moisture in the soup.
How Can I Store Leftover Keto Taco Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts to keep the soup creamy.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian or Keto-Friendly Without Beef?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for diced mushrooms, zucchini, or a plant-based meat substitute to keep it low carb and hearty. Adjust seasoning as needed for flavor.
What Are Some Good Keto-Friendly Toppings for This Soup?
Besides avocado and sour cream, try shredded cheese, chopped green onions, sliced jalapeños, or a few crunchy pork rinds for texture and extra flavor.