Easy Taco Soup Crockpot Recipe - Delicious Mexican Comfort

Invite your family and friends for a tasty Mexican feast with this slow cooker taco soup recipe. It’s filled with ground beef, beans, corn, and spices. This hearty Mexican soup is the perfect comfort food, and it’s simple to make in your easy crockpot recipe.

This slow cooker taco soup is great for 8 people. It only takes 20 minutes to prepare and cooks for 4 hours. It’s a delicious dish for a cozy night or a big gathering. Each serving has just 339 kcal, so you can enjoy it without feeling guilty.

Key Takeaways

Serves 8 people with a prep time of 20 minutes and a cooking time of 4 hours
Packed with ground beef, beans, corn, and a blend of spices for a hearty, Mexican-inspired flavor
Calorie-conscious with 339 kcal per serving, making it a guilt-free comfort food option
Easy to prepare in the slow cooker, allowing you to set it and forget it
Ideal for enjoying on a cozy night or sharing with a crowd

Why This Mexican-Inspired Soup Is Perfect for Your Crockpot

Slow cooker fans, you’re in for a treat! This taco soup recipe is a must-have. It combines Mexican flavors with the ease of slow cooking. Let’s see why it’s a hit for your crockpot.

Benefits of Slow Cooking

Slow cooking makes the beef tender and the flavors blend perfectly. The long cooking time creates a rich taste. Plus, it’s easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.

Year-Round Comfort Food Appeal

This taco soup is great all year. It’s warm and comforting in the cold months. But it’s also refreshing in the summer. The slow cooker fills your home with a delicious smell, any time of year.

Family-Friendly Meal Solution

This taco soup is loved by all. It’s easy to make and you can add your favorite toppings. Kids love making their own bowls, making it a fun family meal.

Looking for a cozy dinner or a meal that everyone will enjoy? This slow cooker taco soup is perfect. Get ready to enjoy the flavors of Mexico at home.

Essential Ingredients for Taco Soup Crockpot Recipe

To make a tasty taco soup in your crockpot, you need the right ingredients. Start with 1 pound of lean ground beef for the protein base. Add 1 small diced onion to enhance flavor and aroma.

Canned goods are key in this easy recipe. You’ll need a 15-ounce can of beef broth and a 15-ounce can of diced tomatoes and green chiles (Rotel). Also, a can of pinto beans and a 15-ounce can of kernel corn are essential. These ingredients add texture and flavor to the soup.

Seasoning is crucial for the taco soup. Use 1 packet of taco seasoning and 1 packet of dry ranch dressing mix. These spice blends give the soup its classic Tex-Mex taste. Remember to add about 1 cup of water to thin the soup to your liking.

Ingredient	Quantity
Ground Beef	1 lb, lean
Onion	1 small, diced
Beef Broth	1 (15 oz) can
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles	1 (15 oz) can
Pinto Beans	1 can
Kernel Corn	1 (15 oz) can
Taco Seasoning	1 packet
Dry Ranch Dressing Mix	1 packet
Water	1 cup (measured in tomato can)

With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious taco soup in your crockpot. Feel free to adjust the spice by adding more chili powder or diced jalapeños.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make this tasty Taco Soup in your crockpot, you’ll need some basic tools and equipment. The right slow cooker size and cooking utensils are key to success.

Slow Cooker Specifications

For this recipe, a 6-quart slow cooker is recommended. It’s big enough to hold all the ingredients without being too full. This size is great for small to medium families or for meal prep.

Additional Cooking Utensils

Large skillet or pan for browning the ground beef
Measuring cups and spoons to precisely portion the ingredients
Can opener to easily access canned goods like diced tomatoes and beans
Sharp knife for chopping the onions, bell peppers, and other taco soup vegetables
Optional: food processor for finer vegetable cuts (if preferred)

With these crockpot size, kitchen tools for taco soup, and slow cooker essentials, you’re ready to make a delicious Taco Soup in your slow cooker.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Making a tasty taco soup in your crockpot is easy with this recipe. The secret to success is following each step carefully. This ensures your taco soup preparation goes smoothly and the soup is full of flavor. Let’s explore the crockpot recipe steps and slow cooker instructions to make the best Mexican-inspired soup.

Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is done and the onions are soft.
Drain the excess grease from the skillet. Then, put the beef and onion mix into your slow cooker.
Add canned diced tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, corn, taco seasoning, and ranch dressing mix. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Pour in the broth, making sure all ingredients are covered.
Cover the slow cooker. Cook the taco soup on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Wait until the flavors blend and the soup thickens.

If you like to prep ahead, you can assemble the taco soup in the slow cooker the night before. Refrigerate it and cook it the next day. This makes the taco soup preparation even easier.

Ingredient	Amount
Ground Beef	2 lbs, 85% lean
Yellow Onion	2 medium, diced
Garlic	3 cloves, minced
Canned Kidney Beans	2 (15.5 oz) cans
Canned Pinto Beans	2 (15.5 oz) cans
Canned Corn	2 (15.25 oz) cans
Canned Diced Tomatoes	1 (28 oz) can
Canned Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies	1 (10 oz) can
Taco Seasoning	1.25 oz packet
Ranch Dressing Mix	1 oz packet
Chicken Broth	4 cups

With these easy crockpot recipe steps and slow cooker instructions, you’ll have a delicious taco soup ready. The slow cooking blends the flavors, making a comforting meal for any time.

Browning the Ground Beef: Tips and Techniques

Getting your taco soup just right starts with browning the ground beef. This step adds flavor and texture. Here are some tips to make sure your beef is perfectly seared.

Proper Draining Methods

After browning, it’s key to drain excess fat. This keeps your taco soup from being too greasy. Use a colander or slotted spoon to move the meat to a plate or bowl. Let the fat drip off. This way, your soup will be rich but not too heavy.

Seasoning Guidelines

Seasoning the browning ground beef is vital for the Mexican flavors in your taco soup. The taco seasoning mix is the main flavor, but adding spices can enhance it. Try cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder for a rich taste.

Mastering browning ground beef and seasoning it well is key to a delicious taco soup. With these tips, you’ll make a soup that everyone will love. It’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Combining Ingredients in Your Slow Cooker

Making your slow cooker taco soup is easy. Start by placing the browned and drained ground beef at the bottom. Then, add the canned goods like diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and green chiles evenly over the beef.

Next, add the taco soup mix of seasonings. This includes chili powder, cumin, paprika, and salt. Stir gently to mix well. Finally, pour in the chicken or beef stock to cover all the ingredients.

It’s important to add the liquid ingredients last. This makes stirring easier and ensures everything is covered in the broth. You don’t need to pre-cook the canned items. They will soften and blend well during cooking.

Ingredient	Quantity
Lean Ground Beef	1 pound (450g)
Diced Onions	1 1/2 cups (180g)
Chicken or Beef Stock	2 to 3 cups (475ml to 710ml)
Diced Tomatoes	1 (15-ounce) can
Black Beans	1 (15-ounce) can, drained and rinsed
Kidney Beans	1 (15-ounce) can, drained and rinsed
Chopped Green Chiles	1 (4-ounce) can
Corn Kernels	1 1/4 cups (135g), fresh or frozen
Chili Powder	2 1/2 teaspoons
Ground Cumin	1 teaspoon
Paprika	1 teaspoon
Salt	1 teaspoon

With all the ingredients in place, your slow cooker taco soup is ready to cook. It will fill your kitchen with the delicious smell of Mexican comfort food.

“This taco soup is absolute perfection. The flavors meld together so well, and it’s so easy to make in the slow cooker. I’ll be making this all the time!”

Cooking Times and Temperature Settings

When making your taco soup in a slow cooker, timing and temperature are key. They help get the meat tender and the flavors just right. You can adjust the cooking to fit your schedule and taste.

Low Heat vs High Heat Options

For the best flavor, cook your taco soup on low heat for 6-8 hours. This slow cooking tenderizes the beef and blends the flavors perfectly. If you’re in a hurry, use high heat for 3-4 hours to get it ready faster.

How to Know When It’s Done

Check if the ground beef is tender and the flavors are mixed well. You can cook it longer or keep it warm until you’re ready. The longer it cooks, the richer the flavors become.

Cooking Time	Temperature Setting	Ideal for
6-8 hours	Low	Tender meat and well-blended flavors
3-4 hours	High	Quicker cooking time

“The key to a delicious taco soup is allowing the flavors to meld together slowly. Low and slow is the way to go for maximum taste and tenderness.”

Customizing Your Taco Soup

Taco soup is super versatile. You can make it spicier, less calorie-rich, or try new flavors. There are many ways to make this Mexican dish your own. Let’s look at some tasty ways to make your taco soup better.

Adjusting the Spice Level

Want your taco soup spicier? Add more chili powder, jalapeños, or cayenne pepper. For a milder taste, use less spice or skip the hot stuff. Make it just right for you and your family.

Protein Substitutions

Try ground turkey or shredded chicken for a lighter taco soup.
Change up the beans like kidney, pinto, or garbanzo for different tastes.

Creamy Variations

For a creamier soup, add cream cheese or sour cream near the end. It makes the soup rich and smooth.

Vegetable Additions

Add your favorite veggies to taco soup. Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn kernels make it colorful and nutritious.

Ingredient	Quantity
Ground Beef	1.5 pounds, extra lean
Canned Corn	1 can
Canned Black Beans	1 can
Canned Diced Tomatoes	1 can, fire-roasted
Canned Diced Green Chilis	1 can
Beef Broth	2 cups
Water	2 cups
Dried Oregano	1/4 teaspoon
Garlic Powder	1/2 teaspoon
Onion Powder	1/2 teaspoon
Smoked Paprika	1/2 teaspoon
Chili Powder	1/2 teaspoon
Cayenne Pepper (optional)	1/2 teaspoon

Taco soup is all about making it your own. Try new ingredients, spices, and methods. Personalize your crockpot recipes and find the taco soup variations you love. Enjoy making your Mexican soup customization dreams come true.

Delicious Topping Ideas

Make your taco soup even better with tasty toppings and garnishes. You can choose from classic Mexican flavors or try something new. These add-ons will make your soup even more delicious.

Traditional Mexican Garnishes

Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend)
Dollops of cool, creamy sour cream
Fresh, fragrant cilantro
Diced avocado for a creamy texture

Creative Add-ons

Crushed tortilla chips or Fritos for a satisfying crunch
A squeeze of lime juice to brighten the flavors
Dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick
Finely chopped green onions or red onions for a pop of color and flavor
Smoky chipotle guacamole for a bold, nuanced taste
Fresh, sliced jalapeños for an extra hit of heat

There are countless ways to customize your taco soup with toppings and garnishes. Try different combinations to find the perfect mix of flavors and textures.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines

Managing leftover taco soup is all about the right storage and freezing. This ensures the flavors and textures stay fresh. Whether you have extra from your crockpot or are meal prepping, these tips will help.

Refrigerating Taco Soup Leftovers

After your taco soup is done, move it to airtight containers. Store it in the fridge for 3-4 days. This way, you can reheat and enjoy it all week. The flavors get even better after a day or two.

Freezing Taco Soup for Long-Term Storage

Taco soup freezes well for longer storage. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or ziplock bags, leaving space for expansion. Sealed properly, it can last up to 4 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Storage Method	Shelf Life
Refrigerator	3-4 days
Freezer	Up to 4 months

When storing taco soup, add fresh toppings like sour cream or cilantro just before serving. This keeps the flavors and textures vibrant.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

Taco soup is a tasty Mexican dish that’s also good for you. It has 223 calories, 31g of carbohydrates, 18g of protein, and only 3g of fat. It’s perfect for those wanting a healthy Mexican recipe that’s protein-rich and full of fiber.

This recipe uses fiber-rich beans, vitamin-packed tomatoes, and antioxidant-rich spices. Each serving has 8g of fiber and 700mg of potassium. It also has vitamins A and C, making it great for your health.

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	223
Carbohydrates	31g
Protein	18g
Fat	3g
Fiber	8g
Potassium	700mg
Vitamin A	1717IU
Vitamin C	86mg

Using lean ground turkey or beef and fiber-rich beans makes this soup balanced and filling. You can also adjust the sodium or add more veggies for more nutrition. This protein-rich soup is a delicious way to boost your health and wellness.

Tips for Making the Best Taco Soup

Making a tasty taco soup in your crockpot is an art. A few simple tips can make your dish stand out. First, don’t overcook your veggies. You want them tender but still crisp.

Also, browning the meat is key. It adds a rich flavor that makes the soup truly satisfying.

Adjust the liquid to get the right soup texture. If it’s too thick, add some broth or water. If it’s too thin, simmer it longer to concentrate the flavors. Using low-sodium broth helps control the salt.

Pro Chef Secrets

Seasoned chefs have tricks for taco soup. Blooming spices in hot oil before adding them to the slow cooker boosts flavor and aroma. Using fire-roasted tomatoes adds depth and complexity.

Adding fresh lime juice just before serving brightens the dish. It adds a zesty finish that guests will love.

Follow these taco soup tips, crockpot recipe hacks, and slow cooker best practices to make a delicious Mexican-inspired soup. It will warm hearts and satisfy taste buds. Enjoy your tasty creation!

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Taco soup is a versatile and comforting dish. It pairs well with many side dishes and accompaniments. Serve it with warm cornbread or tortillas for a classic touch. A simple green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the bold soup flavors.

For a fun dining experience, offer a variety of toppings. Guests can choose from sour cream, diced red onion, and minced cilantro. Sliced jalapeños, avocado, and crispy tortilla strips are also great options. These toppings add flavor and let everyone customize their soup.

To enhance the Mexican theme, serve taco soup with horchata or agua fresca. For big gatherings, set up a toppings bar. This makes building your own taco soup bowl a fun activity.

When planning your taco soup menu, try different side dishes. Options include warm cornbread, garlic breadsticks, creamy mashed potatoes, and roasted vegetables. Experiment to find the perfect sides that match the soup’s bold flavors.

“The beauty of taco soup is that it’s a one-pot wonder, but the real fun comes in customizing it with all the delicious toppings and sides. It’s a meal that allows everyone to build their perfect bowl.”

Conclusion

The crockpot creamy chicken taco soup is a versatile, easy-to-make meal. It brings the comforting flavors of Mexican cuisine with the ease of slow cooking. It’s perfect for busy families or big gatherings.

This recipe is customizable, fitting personal tastes and dietary needs. It’s great for weekly meals or large events. Its hearty base and endless toppings make it a comfort food favorite.

It’s loved by both kids and adults. So, why not try this delightful easy taco soup recipe? It’s a hassle-free meal that everyone will enjoy.

You can adjust the soup’s consistency to your liking. It’s nutritious and can be tailored to your diet. Dive into Mexican-inspired comfort food with this taco soup.

FAQ

How many servings does this taco soup recipe make?

This taco soup recipe serves 8 people.

How long does it take to prepare this taco soup?

The prep time for this taco soup is 10 minutes.

How long does the taco soup need to cook?

The cook time for this taco soup is 8 hours in the slow cooker.

What are the main ingredients in this taco soup?

The key ingredients include ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and taco seasoning.

What are the cooking temperature options for the slow cooker?

The taco soup can be cooked on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours in the slow cooker.

Can this taco soup be customized?

Yes, the taco soup recipe is highly customizable. You can adjust the spice levels, substitute different proteins, and incorporate additional vegetables.

What are some suggested toppings for the taco soup?

Traditional toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, and diced avocado. You can also get creative with crushed tortilla chips, Fritos, lime juice, hot sauce, and more.