Crock Pot Taco Soup

Crock Pot Taco Soup is pure comfort food, the kind that warms not only your belly but also your heart. There’s something about a hearty soup, simmered slowly to develop deep flavors, that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. This recipe brings family together while allowing each person to customize their bowl with their favorite toppings, making it ideal for every palate.

At the heart of this delightful dish is a combination of common, yet flavorful ingredients. You’ll find 1 pound of ground beef, which offers a rich meatiness, perfectly complemented by black beans and kidney beans for a hearty texture. The corn adds a touch of sweetness, while the diced tomatoes with green chilies bring a spicy kick. All of these ingredients come together with a convenient packet of taco seasoning, along with beef broth and water to create a savory base. Optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, and cilantro let everyone tailor their soup just the way they like it.

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its ingredients but also in its preparation. Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet, then combine it with the beans, corn, tomatoes, taco seasoning, beef broth, and water in a crock pot. After giving it a good stir, you can set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours. By the time you’re ready to eat, just a quick taste for seasoning adjustment and you’re all set. Serve with your chosen toppings, and you’ve got a meal that feels both comforting and satisfying.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing for family movie night, or simply want an effortless weeknight dinner, this hearty taco soup fits the bill perfectly. It’s a flexible dish that works beautifully for any occasion, bringing joy and warmth with every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Taco Soup

• Quick Preparation: Minimal hands-on cooking time means you’ll have more time to relax.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, it’s easy on the wallet and the grocery list.
• Comfort Food: This soup hits the right notes of hearty and satisfying, making it a beloved family favorite.
• Customizable: With plenty of topping options, everyone can personalize their serving.
• Great for Leftovers: It tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or family lunches.

Ground Beef Tips

When selecting ground beef, it’s best to aim for an 80/20 blend. This means it has 80% lean meat and 20% fat. This balance strikes a perfect flavor and moisture level when cooking in soups. Look for meat that is bright red and feels firm to the touch, ensuring freshness. If possible, try to buy it from a local butcher or a trusted grocery store. This way, you can be sure you are using quality beef in your dish.

Options for Substitutions

• Use turkey or chicken in place of ground beef for a leaner option.
• Consider black-eyed peas instead of black beans for a unique twist.
• Sweet corn can be swapped with fire-roasted corn for added flavor.
• Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian version.
• Replace taco seasoning with homemade spices like cumin, paprika, and onion powder.
• Greek yogurt can be substituted for sour cream for a healthier creamy topping.

Watch Out for These Mistakes

One common pitfall when making taco soup is overcooking the meat. Make sure to brown the ground beef until it is just cooked through, as it will continue to cook in the crock pot. Excessive cooking can lead to a dry texture.

Another mistake is adding all the ingredients too early. Some ingredients, like certain fresh toppings, are worth waiting to add until just before serving to maintain their freshness and crunch.

Proper seasoning is crucial. Taste your soup at the end of cooking and add salt and pepper as necessary. This simple step can elevate the overall flavor and ensure it’s just right.

Lastly, be cautious about using too much liquid. If you’re using canned beans, make sure to drain and rinse them first. This helps manage the saltiness and keeps the soup from becoming too watery.

What to Serve With Crock Pot Taco Soup?

To elevate your meal, consider serving the taco soup alongside some cornbread for a sweet contrast, tortilla chips for added crunch, or a fresh green salad with a citrus dressing. You could also offer some warm flour tortillas for wrapping up the delicious soup, creating a fun and interactive dining experience.

Storage Instructions

Store: Leftover taco soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it is in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Freeze: If you want to store it for longer, taco soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to freeze it in portions for easier thawing.

Reheat: For reheating, you can use the stovetop on medium heat until warmed through, or place it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Recipe Info

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low / 3-4 hours on high
Total Time: Approximately 6-8 hours and 15 minutes
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Servings: About 4-6 servings

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):

• Calories: 1,200 – 1,400
• Protein: 80 – 90 grams
• Fat: 50 – 60 grams
• Carbohydrates: 120 – 130 grams

Ingredients

• 1 pound 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 green chilies
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it is fully cooked. Make sure to drain any excess fat to prevent your soup from becoming greasy.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a large crock pot, combine the cooked ground beef with the drained black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, beef broth, and water. Stir well to mix all the flavors together.

Step 3: Set the Slow Cooker

Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking method allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully, enhancing the flavors.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning

Once the cooking time is up, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This final touch will ensure the soup is just right.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

When you’re ready to eat, serve the soup warm with optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, and cilantro. Each person can create their perfect bowl.

Crock Pot Taco Soup is a straightforward and rewarding recipe, perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or a gathering with friends, I encourage you to give it a try. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments, and explore more of my recipes for delicious meals that bring people together!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this taco soup ahead of time?

Yes, taco soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen. You can prepare it a day in advance and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! You can freeze the taco soup for up to three months. Store it in airtight containers for best results.

How can I make this soup spicier?

If you like heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or some diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. You can also enhance the spice with a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or use a spicier taco seasoning mix.

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