This Slow Cooker Taco Soup is warm, zesty, and oh-so-easy to make! Just toss in meats, beans, corn, and spices, and let the slow cooker do its magic while you relax.
Your kitchen will smell amazing, and the best part? You can top it with cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips for a fun twist. I love making it on busy days when I need a hearty meal without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein for the soup. You can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even cooked lentils for a vegetarian version.
Beans: Black and kidney beans are classic in taco soup but feel free to mix it up. Pinto beans or chickpeas work great too! Canned beans save time; just rinse them to reduce sodium.
Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes with green chilies add a kick to the flavor. If you prefer milder soup, opt for plain diced tomatoes, and consider adding a bit of hot sauce later.
Taco Seasoning: The packet is convenient, but you can create your own blend with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano if you prefer controlling the spice level.
How Do I Prepare Ground Beef for the Soup?
Cooking the ground beef with onions and garlic is key to building flavor. Here’s the best way to prepare it:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of oil if you’re using lean beef.
- Add the diced onions and sauté until soft, then add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the ground beef. Use a spoon to break it into smaller pieces, cooking until browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat before adding it to the slow cooker.
This step enhances the soup’s overall taste, making it rich and hearty. Enjoy your cooking!
Delicious Slow Cooker Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Toppings (optional):
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced red onion
- Sliced green onions
- Guacamole or diced avocado
- Tortilla chips or strips
Time Needed:
This delicious taco soup will take about 15 minutes to prepare and cook times vary, depending on your preference. You can set it to cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, making it perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal ready when you get home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion and minced garlic. Stir occasionally until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Once cooked, drain the excess fat.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the cooked beef mixture into your slow cooker. Then, add the black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, taco seasoning mix, and ground cumin. Stir everything together well to combine.
3. Let It Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will blend together!
4. Season and Serve:
Once done, taste and season with salt and pepper as desired. Ladle the soup into bowls and add your favorite toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, cilantro, diced onion, guacamole, and tortilla chips.
This hearty and flavorful Slow Cooker Taco Soup is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. The toppings add creaminess, crunch, and fresh zest to each bite! Enjoy!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works just as well in this recipe. You may want to add a bit more seasoning since turkey is milder in flavor.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with a mixture of additional beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra texture.
Can I Freeze Leftover Taco Soup?
Yes, you can freeze leftover soup! Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What Should I Serve This Soup With?
This taco soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, cornbread, or tortilla chips. You can also serve it on a bed of rice or with a side of avocado slices to enhance the meal!
