Taco Soup is one of those dishes that hits all the right notes. It’s hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make. If you’re someone who loves the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine but needs something that’s not too heavy, this dish is a real winner. And when it comes to lighter options without sacrificing taste, the Original Weight Watchers Taco Soup recipe stands out as a perfect example. This version keeps things healthy without compromising on the familiar taco flavors you know and love.
Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or prepping a big batch to feed a crowd, Taco Soup can be as customizable as your cravings. Plus, with Weight Watchers in the mix, you can rest assured it’s a guilt-free comfort food that won’t derail your wellness goals.
In this detailed breakdown, we’ll explore not just the recipe but all the little nuances, tips, and variations you can incorporate to make this soup your own. From the ingredients to the cooking instructions, ingredient insights, and even some expert tips, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this Taco Soup a total success in your kitchen!
Original Weight Watchers Taco Soup Recipe
Before we dive into the specifics, here’s a look at the Original Weight Watchers Taco Soup recipe that’s made for lightening up your favorite taco-inspired dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey (lean)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 packet taco seasoning (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted is great for extra flavor)
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 1 can (15 oz) low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup water (if needed for thinning)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- 1/2 cup reduced-fat shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
- 1/2 cup light sour cream (optional, for topping)
Ingredients Needed
The beauty of Taco Soup lies in its ability to deliver big flavor while keeping things pretty simple and wholesome. Let’s break down the essential ingredients and talk about why each one matters in the recipe.
- Ground Turkey (1 lb): The lean protein of choice here. Ground turkey is lower in fat than traditional ground beef, making it a great fit for Weight Watchers. It takes on the flavors of the taco seasoning and creates the base for your soup.
- Onion (1 medium): A chopped onion adds a natural sweetness and savory depth to the soup, building a solid flavor foundation right at the start.
- Taco Seasoning Packet (1 packet): You can opt for a low-sodium version here to keep things healthier, but the taco seasoning is essential for that familiar, zesty flavor that everyone loves. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own taco seasoning blend from scratch.
- Black Beans (1 can): Rich in fiber and protein, black beans are a must-have. They help bulk up the soup, making it filling and satisfying.
- Corn (1 can): Sweet corn adds a touch of sweetness and a burst of color. It contrasts perfectly with the spiciness of the soup while maintaining a crisp texture.
- Diced Tomatoes (1 can): Opt for fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an added smoky depth of flavor, or go for regular diced tomatoes if you prefer a milder base.
- Diced Green Chilies (1 can): These bring a slight heat and a layer of complexity to the flavor profile, without overwhelming the dish with spiciness.
- Chicken Broth (1 can): Low-sodium chicken broth serves as the base liquid for the soup. It’s lighter than using cream-based soups and gives the soup a lovely, savory richness.
- Cumin (1 tsp): A key ingredient in taco seasoning, cumin adds an earthy, smoky, and slightly nutty flavor to the soup, further enhancing the taco-inspired theme.
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Garlic is a staple in just about every savory dish, and its flavor here is subtle but important. It infuses the soup with that classic savory undertone.
- Salt & Pepper: The simple seasonings that tie everything together. You can adjust the amount depending on your taste preferences.
- Fresh Cilantro: While not a must, cilantro adds a burst of fresh, herby brightness. It’s a great garnish to finish off the dish and elevate its visual appeal.
- Reduced-Fat Shredded Cheese: For those who want a cheesy topping, using reduced-fat cheese is a great way to keep things light while still getting that creamy texture.
- Light Sour Cream: A dollop of light sour cream brings richness and a cool contrast to the heat of the soup.
Cooking Instructions
Now that we’ve got all the ingredients sorted, let’s get cooking. The process is quick, straightforward, and doesn’t require any fancy techniques. Here’s how you can whip up this hearty soup:
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Brown The Ground Turkey
- Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add the ground turkey. Cook, stirring frequently, until the meat is browned and cooked through.
- Break the meat up into smaller bits as it cooks to ensure an even texture.
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Sauté The Onions
- Once the turkey is fully cooked, add the chopped onions to the pot. Continue cooking for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and translucent.
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Season The Meat And Onions
- Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything to coat the meat and onions in the seasoning mix. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to bring out the flavors.
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Add The Remaining Ingredients
- Pour in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, green chilies, and chicken broth. Stir everything to combine.
- If the soup feels too thick for your liking, you can add about 1/2 cup of water to thin it out a bit.
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Simmer
- Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the soup to heat through.
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Taste And Adjust
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or spices depending on your preference.
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Serve
- Once done, ladle the soup into bowls. You can garnish it with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, and a dollop of light sour cream.
Ingredient Insights
- Ground Turkey: It’s not just low in fat but also a great source of protein. Compared to beef, turkey is much leaner but still very flavorful when cooked right.
- Black Beans and Corn: These two ingredients make the soup filling and provide plenty of fiber, which will keep you feeling full for longer. Black beans are also rich in antioxidants, making them a heart-healthy addition.
- Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: These tomatoes offer a smoky flavor that enhances the overall depth of the soup. If you’re not into smoky flavors, you can use regular diced tomatoes, but fire-roasted tomatoes really make this dish stand out.
Expert Tips
- Make It in the Slow Cooker: If you’re short on time, you can easily turn this into a slow-cooker recipe. Simply brown the turkey and onions first, then dump all the ingredients into the slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 4-6 hours, and it’s ready to serve.
- Spice Level Control: Adjust the heat by adding or reducing the amount of diced green chilies, or use a mild salsa instead of the diced tomatoes to control the level of spice.
- Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so feel free to make a double batch and store leftovers in the freezer for easy, healthy meals later on.
- Bulk It Up: If you’re craving even more texture, throw in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even cauliflower for extra veggies.
Recipe Variations
One of the best things about Taco Soup is its flexibility. Here are a few ways to mix it up based on what you have or your preferences:
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the turkey and use more beans or add cubed tofu for a plant-based protein boost.
- Spicy Option: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Low-Carb Version: Replace the corn with cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini to make it lower in carbs while still keeping that taco flavor.
- Cheesy Delight: Add a bit of cream cheese or Velveeta-style cheese to make it creamy and ultra cheesy.
Final Words
Taco Soup doesn’t have to be a guilty pleasure. By using lean turkey, fresh ingredients, and healthy swaps, you can enjoy the delicious, bold flavors of Taco Tuesday every day of the week. It’s customizable, full of nutrients, and will definitely satisfy that comfort food craving without any regrets.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Used In The Original Weight Watchers Taco Soup Recipe?
The original Weight Watchers taco soup recipe typically includes lean ground beef or turkey, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, corn, and taco seasoning. Some variations may include extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
How Many Weight Watchers Points Is The Original Taco Soup Recipe?
The Weight Watchers points for taco soup vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes, but the original recipe typically falls between 4-6 points per serving for the SmartPoints system. This can change based on the type of meat used and any substitutions.
Can I Use A Slow Cooker To Make The Original Weight Watchers Taco Soup?
Yes, you can use a slow cooker to prepare taco soup. Brown the meat and onions first, then add all other ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours for a convenient, hands-off approach.
Can I Make The Original Weight Watchers Taco Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make the taco soup vegetarian by replacing the meat with plant-based protein such as black beans, lentils, or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu. Be sure to adjust the seasoning to ensure the flavors are balanced.
How Can I Make The Original Weight Watchers Taco Soup Spicier?
To make the soup spicier, you can add ingredients such as diced jalapeños, extra chili powder, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Adjust the spice level to your personal preference.
What Can I Serve With The Original Weight Watchers Taco Soup?
The original taco soup can be served with a variety of sides, such as a small portion of whole-grain tortilla chips, a side salad, or a dollop of Greek yogurt or light sour cream as a garnish.
Can I Freeze The Original Weight Watchers Taco Soup?
Yes, you can freeze taco soup. To do so, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, ensure it is heated thoroughly.
How Long Does The Original Weight Watchers Taco Soup Last In The Fridge?
The soup can last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Be sure to store any toppings (like sour cream or cheese) separately to prevent them from getting soggy.
What Type Of Beans Are Used In The Original Weight Watchers Taco Soup?
The original Weight Watchers taco soup recipe typically uses kidney beans, but you can substitute with other types of beans such as black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas, depending on your preference.
Can I Make The Original Weight Watchers Taco Soup Gluten-free?
Yes, the taco soup can be made gluten-free by ensuring that the taco seasoning and any additional ingredients, like broth or canned items, are labeled gluten-free. You can also make your own taco seasoning to control the ingredients.