Dinner

High Protein Creamy Taco Soup Recipe

Byluca Carter November 9, 2025November 9, 2025

Introduction

This High Protein Creamy Taco Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Packed with lean turkey and creamy cheese, it combines classic taco flavors in a comforting bowl.

A bowl filled with creamy chili showing multiple layers, the bottom layer is thick and beige with visible black beans and chunks of browned meat, above this are pieces of yellow corn and small bits of red tomato mixed in, topped with a small green basil leaf and a few chopped green herbs. The bowl is white ceramic, and the background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) lean ground turkey or chicken
1 tablespoon olive oil

1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

1 (10 oz) can green chilies (optional)
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
8 oz cream cheese, cubed
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon cumin

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey or chicken and cook until browned.
Step 2: Add taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the meat evenly.

Step 3: Pour in the diced tomatoes, green chilies (if using), black beans, and chicken broth. Stir to combine all ingredients well.
Step 4: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the cubed cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the soup turns creamy.
Step 5: Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it melts completely and the soup is smooth.

Step 6: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
Step 7: Serve the soup hot. Optional garnishes include sour cream, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for extra brightness.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier soup, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce along with the tomatoes.

Use ground beef instead of turkey or chicken for a richer flavor.
For a dairy-free version, replace cream cheese and cheddar with dairy-free alternatives or omit them entirely.
Add corn kernels or chopped bell peppers for extra texture and sweetness.

Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The soup may thicken upon cooling; add a splash of chicken broth or water if needed when reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a thick stew in a dark bowl filled to the top. The stew has a creamy, light brown base with visible chunks of ground meat, yellow corn kernels, black beans, and red tomato pieces mixed throughout. A few fresh green parsley leaves sit on top, adding a splash of color. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface lightly blurred in the background. The texture looks rich and hearty with a mix of smooth sauce and chunky ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade taco seasoning instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade taco seasoning works great and lets you control the salt and spice levels. Use a mix of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and a pinch of cayenne.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the ground turkey or chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra beans, vegetables, or plant-based protein to keep it filling.