Turkey taco soup is a savory, hearty dish that warms the soul. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and loved by the whole family. Packed with healthy ingredients, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy a meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Turkey Taco Soup
Essential Ingredients
To prepare this delightful turkey taco soup, you’ll need 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 medium onion finely diced, and 3-4 garlic cloves minced. You’ll also want 1 pound of ground turkey, preferably lean at 93% lean and 7% fat, along with 2 tablespoons of chili powder and ½ tablespoon of cumin. For a little heat, consider adding ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Additionally, gather 1 (28 ounce) can of crushed tomatoes, 4 cups of chicken broth, 2 (15 ounce) cans of black beans (drained and rinsed), and 2 cups of frozen corn. Finally, have salt ready to taste, adding it at the end for the best flavor.
Suggested Toppings
For serving, enhance your soup with delicious toppings like sour cream, chopped cilantro, green onions, tortilla chips or strips, and shredded cheddar jack cheese. Each adds a unique texture and flavor, making the dish even more enjoyable.
Tips for Perfect Turkey Taco Soup
Preventing Stringy Ground Turkey
To avoid stringy ground turkey, gently press and fold it with a fork while cooking. This method breaks up the texture without overworking it, resulting in a smoother consistency.
Adjusting Seasoning
Taste your soup before adding salt. This allows you to adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you prefer, use reduced sodium ingredients for a healthier option.
How to Make Turkey Taco Soup
Cooking the Base
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring often. Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Combining Ingredients
Next, increase the heat to medium-high. Add the ground turkey, chili powder, cumin, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine and break up the turkey with a wooden spoon, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until browned.
Simmering for Flavor
Now, add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, black beans, and corn to the pot. Stir well and raise the heat to high to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 20-25 minutes. This time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Stir occasionally and adjust the heat if it boils too vigorously. Finally, taste the soup and add salt if necessary. Serve with your choice of toppings.
Storing and Reheating Instructions
Refrigeration Guidelines
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days. This ensures your soup stays fresh and delicious.
Freezing Tips
To freeze, cool the soup first, then store it in freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. It can be frozen for 2-3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Methods
Reheat gently in a covered saucepan over medium-low heat until heated through. Alternatively, use a microwave, stirring often to ensure even heating. If the soup thickens during storage, add broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Notes on Turkey Taco Soup
Additional Serving Suggestions
This turkey taco soup is perfect for feeding a crowd, making it an ideal choice for gatherings. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or some warm, crusty bread for a complete meal.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re out of ground turkey, you can use ground beef instead. While it will change the flavor slightly, it still makes a hearty and delicious soup.
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for turkey taco soup?
You will need olive oil, onion, garlic, ground turkey, chili powder, cumin, crushed red pepper flakes, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, black beans, corn, and salt.
How do I make turkey taco soup in a slow cooker?
To make turkey taco soup in a slow cooker, sauté the onions and garlic first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Can I use ground beef instead of turkey for this soup?
Yes, ground beef can be substituted for turkey, though it will change the flavor slightly.
What are some toppings that go well with turkey taco soup?
Toppings include sour cream, chopped cilantro, green onions, tortilla chips or strips, and shredded cheese.
How long does turkey taco soup last in the fridge?
Turkey taco soup lasts about 3-4 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.
Related Recipes to try
Conclusion
Enjoy this turkey taco soup as a quick, family-friendly meal that’s both hearty and healthy. It’s the perfect dish for any occasion! For more delicious recipes like this one, be sure to visit us on Pinterest for inspiration and tips!
Delicious Turkey Taco Soup: A Comforting Delight
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 Medium Onion, finely diced
- 3-4 Garlic Cloves, minced
- 1 pound Ground Turkey (lean, 93% Lean 7% Fat recommended)
- 2 tablespoons Chili Powder
- ½ tablespoon Cumin
- ¼ teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
- 1 (28 ounce) can Crushed Tomatoes
- 4 cups Chicken Broth
- 2 (15 ounce) cans Black Beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups Frozen Corn
- Salt, to taste (add at the end)
- Suggested toppings: Sour Cream, Chopped Cilantro, Green Onions, Tortilla Chips or Strips, Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring often.
- Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Increase the heat to medium-high, then add the ground turkey, chili powder, cumin, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and break up the turkey with a wooden spoon, cooking for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, black beans, and corn to the pot. Stir well and raise the heat to high to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 20-25 minutes to meld the flavors. Stir occasionally and adjust the heat if it boils too vigorously.
- Taste the soup and add salt if necessary. Serve with your choice of toppings.
Notes
– To avoid stringy ground turkey, gently press and fold it with a fork to break up the texture without overworking it.
– Add salt only after tasting the soup, and consider using reduced sodium ingredients if preferred.