Keto-Friendly Cottage Cheese Taco Soup
This creamy, high-protein taco soup is perfect for weeknight dinners. It combines hearty ingredients into a comforting dish that feels indulgent without compromising on health goals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey Use ground turkey for a lighter option.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing the beef.
- 1 small onion, diced Adds flavor and sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the aroma.
- 1 to 2 tablespoons taco seasoning Low sodium if preferred.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin For earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds smokiness.
- 4 cups low sodium beef or chicken broth Base of the soup.
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chiles Drained if thicker soup is desired.
- 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes Adds richness.
- 1 to 1.5 cups full fat cottage cheese Key ingredient for creaminess.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese Optional for added richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced jalapeños for serving Suggested toppings.
Instructions
Cooking
- Warm a large pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil and ground beef. Break it up as it cooks until browned. Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper.
- Add the onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until they smell fragrant and soften.
- Stir in taco seasoning, cumin, and smoked paprika. Let the spices toast for 30 seconds so the flavor blooms.
- Pour in the broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer for 10 minutes.
- Blend the cottage cheese until totally smooth, about 20 to 30 seconds in a blender.
- Lower the heat. Stir the blended cottage cheese into the pot slowly. Keep the soup at a gentle bubble to prevent the dairy from separating.
- Taste and adjust for salt, heat, and thickness. Add more blended cottage cheese or shredded cheese for a creamier soup.
- Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to marry the flavors. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Notes
For a smoother soup, temper your cottage cheese by stirring in a ladle of hot broth before adding it to the pot. This maintains a creamy texture.