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Keto Turkey Cheesy Taco Soup - Cozy, Creamy, and Low-Carb

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
  • 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean or similar)
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste (no sugar added)
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4–1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, plus more for garnish
  • Juice of 1/2 lime (about 1 tablespoon)
  • Optional toppings: sliced jalapeño, avocado, extra cheddar, sour cream, crushed pork rinds

Method
 

  1. Warm the pot: Set a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the oil and let it shimmer.
  2. Brown the turkey: Add ground turkey. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink and lightly browned, about 5–7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  3. Sauté the veggies: Stir in onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Bloom the spices: Add tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Cook 1–2 minutes, stirring, until the tomato paste deepens in color and the spices are aromatic.
  5. Add broth and simmer: Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook 10 minutes to let flavors meld.
  6. Melt in the cream cheese: Reduce heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese cubes and whisk or stir until fully melted and smooth.
  7. Finish with cream and cheddar: Stir in heavy cream. Add cheddar a handful at a time, stirring between additions until completely melted and the soup is creamy.
  8. Brighten and balance: Stir in cilantro and lime juice. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or heat as needed.
  9. Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with your favorites—avocado, jalapeños, extra cheese, sour cream, or a sprinkle of crushed pork rinds for crunch.