This Slow Cooker Taco Soup is a warm and hearty dish packed with ground beef, beans, corn, and plenty of spices. Just set it and forget it; let the slow cooker do all the work!
It’s like a taco party in a bowl! I love adding my favorite toppings like cheese and sour cream. You can even use leftovers for lunch—easy peasy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the base of the soup, giving it rich flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using ground turkey or even lean ground chicken. For a vegetarian twist, you could opt for lentils or textured vegetable protein (TVP).
Beans: Black beans and kidney beans add protein and texture. If you don’t have these, feel free to use pinto beans or chickpeas instead. Canned beans are super convenient—just rinse them well before adding to the soup!
Broth: Beef broth enhances the flavor, but vegetable broth works great for a vegetarian version. Keep an eye on the saltiness, as some broths are saltier than others.
Taco Seasoning: You can buy pre-made seasoning, but make your own for a fresher taste—just mix cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika if you’re missing any store-bought mix. I often increase the spices for a bolder flavor!
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Your Slow Cooker Taco Soup?
The secret is in the layering of flavors. Start by cooking the beef and onion together to build a flavorful base. Don’t rush this step—it adds depth to your soup! Here’s how to make the most of your slow cooker:
- Brown the beef and onions well before adding them to the slow cooker. This step adds a lot of flavor.
- Use fresh garlic but add it just after browning the meat; cooking it too long can make it bitter.
- Don’t skip the seasoning! Tasting before serving allows you to adjust spices to your preference.
- Let it simmer—slow cooking helps all the flavors meld together beautifully. It’s worth the wait!
Enjoy your cozy taco soup! You can mix and match toppings too—things like avocado or crispy tortilla strips can add a delightful crunch!
How to Make Slow Cooker Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped
- 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 or stock
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced green onions
- Lime wedges
- Tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 6 to 8 hours of slow cooking on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. It’s perfect for a busy day when you want a delicious meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef & Onions:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion together until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Make sure to drain any excess fat so your soup isn’t greasy. This step adds great flavor to your soup!
2. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, until it’s fragrant. Then, remove the skillet from the heat. Garlic adds a delicious aroma and taste to your soup!
3. Combine in Slow Cooker:
Transfer the cooked beef mixture into your slow cooker. It’s time to combine all the delicious ingredients!
4. Add the Rest of the Ingredients:
Add the black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes with chilies, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, taco seasoning, and cumin to the slow cooker. Give everything a good stir to combine. This is where all the flavors start to come together!
5. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Your house will smell amazing!
6. Final Seasoning:
About 15 minutes before serving, taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. This is your chance to make it just the way you like it!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the soup hot, and feel free to garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, green onions, and lime wedges according to your preference. Get a dish, scoop some soup, and sprinkle your favorite toppings!
8. Enjoy with Tortilla Chips:
For added crunch, serve tortilla chips on the side or crumbled right on top of your soup! It gives an amazing texture and taste.
This flavorful, easy slow cooker taco soup is perfect for a cozy meal and makes great leftovers! Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef and works well in this recipe. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and using extra beans, such as lentils or chickpeas, for protein. Substitute vegetable broth for beef broth to keep the flavor rich!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. It also freezes well for up to 3 months!
Can I Add Extra Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add extra veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn. Just chop them into small pieces and add them into the slow cooker with the other ingredients. They’ll soften and add great flavor!
