I’ll never forget the first time I tried Weight Watchers Taco Soup. It was a chilly autumn evening, and I was craving something comforting and nourishing. When my friend Sarah suggested we make a batch of her famous Weight Watchers Taco Soup, I’ll admit I was a bit skeptical. I mean, how good could a “diet” soup really be? But one spoonful in, and I was hooked. The perfectly seasoned broth, the tender chunks of chicken, the melty cheese on top – it was like a hug in a bowl. From that moment on, Weight Watchers Taco Soup became a staple in my household, a go-to recipe I turn to again and again. And I just know it’s going to become your new favorite too.
Why This Weight Watchers Taco Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The secret behind this Weight Watchers Taco Soup recipe is in the layers of flavor. Rather than relying on store-bought seasoning packets, we make our own custom blend of spices that elevates the soup to new heights. The addition of fire-roasted tomatoes also gives it a delightful smoky undertone that complements the classic taco flavors perfectly. And the best part? It’s all made in one pot, with minimal prep work required. You’ll have a hearty, satisfying meal on the table in under an hour.
The Secret Behind Perfect Weight Watchers Taco Soup
What really sets this Weight Watchers Taco Soup apart is the perfect balance of textures and temperatures. The soup itself is nice and thick, almost stew-like, but then you get those pops of cool, creamy avocado and tangy sour cream on top. It’s a flavor and textural party in your mouth! And by using lean ground turkey instead of beef, you’re cutting down on the fat and calories without sacrificing any of the flavor. Trust me, your taste buds won’t know the difference.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
– Ground turkey – This lean protein is the base of the soup, providing a delicious taco-seasoned flavor.
– Canned diced tomatoes – Look for the fire-roasted variety to add a subtle smoky note.
– Canned black beans – Packed with fiber and protein to make this soup extra hearty.
– Chicken broth – The flavorful liquid that brings all the ingredients together.
– Taco seasoning – Our homemade blend of spices is the secret to the amazing flavor.
– Avocado – Cool, creamy avocado is the perfect topping to balance out the bold taco flavors.
– Sour cream – A dollop of tangy sour cream adds the finishing touch.
Step-by-Step Weight Watchers Taco Soup Instructions
Preparing Your Weight Watchers Taco Soup is a breeze. In just about an hour, you can have a big batch of this comforting soup ready to enjoy. All you need is a large pot or Dutch oven, a few simple ingredients, and a little bit of time on the stovetop.
1- Begin by browning the ground turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
2- Once the turkey is cooked through, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
3- Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir to coat the meat and vegetables. Let the spices toast for 1 minute to intensify the flavors.
4- Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, until the flavors have melded together.
5- Just before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a pinch more salt or pepper.
6- Ladle the Weight Watchers Taco Soup into bowls and top with sliced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese if desired. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
The key to getting the perfect Weight Watchers Taco Soup is all in the seasoning. Be sure to use a high-quality taco seasoning blend, or make your own at home for maximum flavor. And don’t be afraid to let the soup simmer for a bit longer to really let the flavors meld together.
Another pro tip? Don’t skip the toppings! The cool, creamy avocado and sour cream are what really take this soup over the top. They provide a delicious contrast to the bold taco flavors.
Serving and Storing Your Weight Watchers Taco Soup
Perfect Pairings for Weight Watchers Taco Soup
This Weight Watchers Taco Soup is a meal in itself, but it also pairs beautifully with a few simple sides. A crisp green salad or some warm, crusty bread are both excellent choices. And if you’re really feeling indulgent, you can’t go wrong with a side of homemade cornbread.
As for beverages, I love to serve this soup with a refreshing glass of iced tea or a crisp, cold beer. The light, tangy flavors of the soup are the perfect foil for a hoppy IPA or a zesty lemon-infused iced tea.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about Weight Watchers Taco Soup is that it’s incredibly easy to make ahead and store for later. The flavors actually improve the longer it sits, so feel free to make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy it all week long.
To store, simply let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot. The toppings can be added just before serving.
You can also freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave a bit of headspace in the container to allow for expansion. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Weight Watchers Taco Soup
Creative Weight Watchers Taco Soup Variations
While this classic Weight Watchers Taco Soup is pretty darn perfect as-is, there are plenty of ways to switch it up and make it your own. Try using ground chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken instead of turkey. Or for a vegetarian version, swap the meat for extra beans or crumbled tofu.
You can also play around with the veggies, adding in things like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even some leafy greens like spinach or kale. And don’t be afraid to get creative with the toppings – crushed tortilla chips, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice would all be delicious additions.
Making Weight Watchers Taco Soup Diet-Friendly
One of the best things about this Weight Watchers Taco Soup recipe is that it’s already super diet-friendly. But if you’re following a specific eating plan, there are a few easy modifications you can make.
For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free chicken broth and make sure your taco seasoning is certified GF. For a low-carb or keto-friendly twist, skip the beans and corn, and serve it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of regular rice.
And for a vegan or dairy-free take, omit the sour cream and cheese, and use plant-based milk or yogurt as a topping. The avocado and crushed tortilla chips will still give you that delicious taco flavor without the dairy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
A: Absolutely! Ground beef will work just as well in this recipe. Just be sure to choose a lean variety to keep the calorie and fat content in check.
Q: How long does this soup take to make?
A: From start to finish, this Weight Watchers Taco Soup comes together in about 45-60 minutes. The active prep time is only about 15 minutes, with the rest of the time spent simmering on the stovetop.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, this soup freezes beautifully! Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes about 6-8 servings of Weight Watchers Taco Soup, depending on how hungry you are! The portion sizes are very generous, so it’s a great meal to feed a crowd or have leftovers for the week.
Q: Why is my soup watery?
A: If your Weight Watchers Taco Soup ends up a bit too thin, simply let it simmer for a few extra minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate and the soup to thicken up. You can also try mashing some of the beans against the side of the pot to release their starch and naturally thicken the broth.
Weight Watchers Taco Soup
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Weight Watchers Taco Soup is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for a quick and healthy meal. Packed with protein, fiber, and bold Mexican spices, it’s a guilt-free way to satisfy your taco cravings.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Toppings: shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions
1. – In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey over medium heat until browned, 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
2. – Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
3. – Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
4. – Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. – Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. – Serve the Weight Watchers Taco Soup hot, topped with shredded cheese, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Notes
This soup can be easily customized to your taste. Try adding different types of beans, using ground chicken or beef instead of turkey, or adjusting the spice level with extra taco seasoning or hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Conclusion
I truly hope this Weight Watchers Taco Soup becomes a new staple in your recipe rotation, just like it is in mine. It’s the perfect balance of bold, comforting flavors and a guilt-free, nutrition-packed meal. Plus, it’s so easy to make and endlessly customizable to suit your tastes.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, get cooking, and prepare to fall in love with this delicious Weight Watchers Taco Soup. And don’t forget to let me know how it turns out – I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!