This Slow Cooker Taco Soup is bursting with flavor and is super easy to make! Just toss in some beans, corn, tomatoes, and taco seasoning for a hearty meal.
You can even let it simmer while you relax! I love topping it with cheese and chips. Perfect for cozy nights or game days with friends! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the base of the soup, adding heartiness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can swap it for ground turkey or even chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Beans: Black and kidney beans provide protein and fiber. You can mix it up with pinto beans or chickpeas if that’s what you have on hand. Just remember to rinse them to reduce sodium.
Corn: Canned corn is convenient and sweet. Frozen corn works just as well, and I think it has a fresher taste when cooked.
Taco Seasoning: This is key for flavor. If you’re out, mix equal parts chili powder, cumin, and paprika for a quick homemade substitute. You can adjust the spice to your liking!
How Do I Achieve the Best Flavor with My Slow Cooker Taco Soup?
Flavor development in slow cooker recipes can be dependent on how you layer your ingredients. Here’s how to ensure your soup is packed with taste:
- Start with cooking the ground beef until browned. This step adds depth to the flavor.
- Mix the taco seasoning with the beef while cooking to allow the spices to bloom and release their flavors.
- Let the soup cook low and slow. If you can, aim for the longer cooking time; it helps meld the flavors beautifully.
- Taste before serving and adjust with salt, pepper, or even a bit of hot sauce for extra kick.
And don’t skip the toppings! They add freshness and creaminess that really elevate the dish. Enjoy! 🥄
Slow Cooker Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, tortilla chips, lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Slow Cooker Taco Soup requires about 15 minutes for preparation and takes between 3-8 hours to cook, depending on whether you choose low or high settings on your slow cooker. It’s the perfect meal to prep in the morning and come home to a warm, inviting dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once it’s done, drain any extra grease to keep your soup from being too heavy.
2. Combine Ingredients:
Next, transfer the cooked ground beef to the slow cooker. It’s time to add the flavor! Toss in the black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, finely chopped onion, taco seasoning, beef broth, garlic powder, cumin, and sprinkle some salt and pepper over the top.
3. Mix It Up:
Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients. You want the spices and beans to mix well with the beef and veggies!
4. Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This is where the magic happens as all the flavors meld together beautifully.
5. Final Touches:
When it’s almost time to serve, taste your soup. Adjust with more salt, pepper, or any extra spices if you feel it needs a bit more flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, ladle the soup into bowls. Top it with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro. Squeeze some fresh lime juice over the top for a refreshing kick. Don’t forget to serve tortilla chips on the side or crushed on top for extra crunch!
Enjoy your warm, hearty, and flavorful Slow Cooker Taco Soup — it’s a cozy dish perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and offers a lighter option. Just cook it in the same way as you would the beef until it’s browned, and then follow the rest of the recipe as usual.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and replace the beef broth with vegetable broth. You can also add extra beans or veggies like bell peppers and zucchini to enhance the dish.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Just add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up if it thickens.
Can I Freeze Taco Soup?
Yes, this taco soup freezes well! Let it cool completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
