If you’re craving a comforting bowl of flavor-packed goodness that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle, this Keto Taco Soup Recipe is going to become your new go-to. It’s a hearty, cheesy, and spicy soup that brings together savory ground beef, zesty tomatoes and chilies, and a luscious blend of cream cheese and cheddar, all simmered to perfection. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this soup delivers big on taste without the carbs, making it a must-try for anyone following keto or simply craving a warming dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your hands on these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to creating this vibrant and satisfying soup. Each item plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor, richness, and satisfying texture that make this dish so special.
- Ground beef (2 lb): The hearty base that adds protein and depth to your soup.
- Ranch dressing mix (1 oz package): Infuses a tangy, herbaceous note that enhances every bite.
- Ro*tel diced tomatoes and green chilies (2 cans, 10 oz each, undrained): Adds a vibrant color and a gentle kick of heat.
- Southwestern or taco seasoning (3 Tbsp): The spice blend that brings authentic Mexican-inspired flavor.
- Unsalted beef broth (4 cups): Creates a rich, savory liquid base that ties all the ingredients together.
- Cream cheese (8 oz package): Provides a silky creaminess that balances the spices perfectly.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (8 oz package): Melts into the soup to add a bold, cheesy punch.
How to Make Keto Taco Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by cooking the ground beef over medium-high heat in a large skillet. The goal is to get it nicely browned and fully cooked but not overdone, so it stays tender. Once it’s no longer pink, drain the excess grease carefully to keep the soup from becoming oily. Transfer the deliciously browned beef to your slow cooker — this is your hearty foundation!
Step 2: Add Seasonings, Tomatoes, and Broth
To your slow cooker, add the ranch dressing mix, southwestern or taco seasoning, the undrained Ro*tel diced tomatoes and green chilies, and the unsalted beef broth. Give everything a good stir to distribute the flavors evenly. Set your slow cooker on LOW and let it mingle and simmer for 6 to 8 hours. This slow, gentle heat allows the flavors to marry beautifully while developing a depth you just can’t rush.
Step 3: Incorporate the Cheeses
When the long simmering session is done, it’s time to bring in the creamy indulgence. Add the cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese to the slow cooker and stir them in thoroughly. The cheeses will melt smoothly into the soup, creating a rich, velvety texture that makes every spoonful incredibly satisfying.
How to Serve Keto Taco Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this soup to the next level, consider adding some fresh, vibrant garnishes. Cilantro leaves add a fresh, herbal pop of color and flavor that complements the spices perfectly. Sliced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese are fabulous options if you want to add richness or creamy contrasts.
Side Dishes
This Keto Taco Soup Recipe shines as a one-dish meal, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or buttery cauliflower rice can round out your plate beautifully. The delicate textures of these sides balance the soup’s hearty density and keep the meal perfectly keto-friendly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in small, hollowed-out bell peppers or avocado halves for a festive presentation that’s sure to impress at gatherings. You can also top the soup with crispy bacon bits or jalapeño slices if you like a little extra heat and crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious. Just give it a gentle stir before reheating to bring it back to life.
Freezing
Keto Taco Soup Recipe freezes beautifully, making it an excellent candidate for batch cooking. Scoop portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy again, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. This will help preserve the creaminess of the cheese and keep the soup smooth and luscious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef is classic here, you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or even sausage for a spicier kick. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Yes! The Keto Taco Soup Recipe is perfect for meal prepping since it reheats well and actually tastes better after the flavors meld overnight. Portion it out into containers for quick, nourishing lunches or dinners.
Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Definitely. Brown the meat and combine the ingredients in a large pot, then simmer on low heat for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This method is faster but still yields delicious results.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you want a dairy-free version, you can try coconut cream or a cashew cream substitute, but keep in mind the flavor and texture will differ slightly from the original richness the cream cheese provides.
How spicy is this Keto Taco Soup Recipe?
The level of spice depends on the seasoning mix and the Rotel tomatoes with chilies. It has a gentle heat that most people find enjoyable, but you can easily add more chili powder or fresh jalapeños if you prefer it hotter.
Final Thoughts
This Keto Taco Soup Recipe is one of those soul-satisfying dishes that warms you up from the inside out while keeping your carb count in check. It’s incredibly simple to throw together, endlessly adaptable, and packed with layers of flavor and creamy texture that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for busy days, this soup is a winner that deserves a spot in your recipe collection.
Print
Keto Taco Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Carb, Keto
Description
A rich and flavorful Keto Taco Soup that combines ground beef, southwestern seasoning, and creamy cheeses. This slow-cooked soup is perfect for low-carb and keto diets, offering a hearty meal with bold Mexican-inspired flavors. Ideal for meal prepping or cozy dinners, it uses simple ingredients and slow cooker convenience.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lb ground beef
- 1 (1-oz) package ranch dressing mix
- 2 (10-oz) cans Ro*tel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
- 3 Tbsp southwestern seasoning or taco seasoning (e.g., Mrs. Dash Southwest Chipotle)
- 4 cups unsalted beef broth
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese
- 1 (8-oz) package shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it is no longer pink, ensuring it is thoroughly cooked. Drain any excess grease to reduce fat content, then transfer the cooked meat into a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Combine Seasonings and Liquids: Add the ranch dressing mix, taco or southwestern seasoning, undrained diced tomatoes with green chilies, and unsalted beef broth into the slow cooker with the ground beef. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Slow Cook the Soup: Cover the slow cooker and cook the mixture on low heat for 6 to 8 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully into a hearty soup.
- Add Cheeses and Finish: About 10 to 15 minutes before serving, add cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese to the slow cooker. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt completely into the soup, creating a creamy texture. Optionally garnish with fresh cilantro before serving for added freshness.
Notes
- Using unsalted beef broth helps control sodium levels; adjust seasoning accordingly.
- For a spicier soup, add additional chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can dissolve a small amount of xanthan gum or blend a portion of the soup and stir back in.
- Garnish ideas include avocado slices, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American, Mexican-inspired
