Introduction

If you’re looking for the perfect recipe to warm you up on a chilly day, look no further than this delicious crock pot taco soup. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, this dish is a fantastic way to satisfy your cravings for Mexican cuisine. With minimal prep work and a slow cooker to do the heavy lifting, this taco soup is ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Ground beef – 1 pound
Onion – 1 medium, diced
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Bell pepper – 1, diced
Black beans – 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
Kidney beans – 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
Corn – 1 can (15 oz)
Diced tomatoes – 1 can (14.5 oz)
Tomato sauce – 1 can (8 oz)
Taco seasoning – 1 packet
Chicken broth – 2 cups
Salt and pepper – to taste
Shredded cheese – for garnish
Sour cream – for garnish
Chopped green onions – for garnish

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 6 hours on low
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8 people

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Slow Cooker

Begin by preparing your slow cooker or Crock-Pot. Ensure it is clean and ready for use.

Combine Ingredients

In the slow cooker, add ground beef. If using a leaner cut, you may want to drain excess fat. Then add diced onions, peppers, and garlic.

Add Canned Ingredients

Next, pour in the canned diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and green chilies.

Add Seasonings

Sprinkle taco seasoning over the mixture. Stir everything well to combine the ingredients.

Add Broth

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth to the mixture, ensuring that everything is well incorporated.

Cook the Soup

Set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Check for Doneness

About 30 minutes before serving, check to see if the soup is heated through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve the Soup

Once finished cooking, ladle the soup into bowls.

Garnish as Desired

Top with your choice of garnishes such as cheese, sour cream, or cilantro.

Notes

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Options

If you want to freeze the soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Customizing the Recipe

Feel free to customize the soup by adding other ingredients like avocado or lime for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs well with tortilla chips or cornbread for a hearty meal.

Cook techniques

Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is key when making taco soup in a crock pot. It allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and ensures the ingredients break down for a rich and hearty soup.

Layering Ingredients

When assembling your taco soup, layer the ingredients according to their cooking time. Start with dense items like beans and meat at the bottom, followed by vegetables and seasonings on top.

Using Fresh Ingredients

Opt for fresh produce whenever possible. Fresh onions, bell peppers, and corn can significantly enhance the texture and flavor of your taco soup.

Adjusting Consistency

If your soup is too thick, add broth or water gradually until you reach your preferred consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a while to reduce and thicken.

Topping Choices

Adding toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and avocado just before serving can elevate the dish and add a fresh contrast to the soup’s warmth.

FAQ

Can I make taco soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare taco soup in advance. It stores well in the refrigerator and the flavors improve over time.

What type of beans can I use?

You can use any variety of canned beans such as black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans. Rinse them before adding to the soup for better flavor.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be a great time-saver and still offer good flavor and texture in your taco soup.

How can I spice up the flavor?

Feel free to add extra spices such as cayenne pepper, chili powder, or even a splash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.

Is taco soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you choose gluten-free broth and avoid any added ingredients that contain gluten, taco soup can be a gluten-free option.

Conclusion

The Crock Pot Taco Soup is a delightful and convenient meal that delivers robust flavors while requiring minimal effort. Perfect for busy days, this hearty dish is a crowd-pleaser, offering flexibility in ingredients based on personal preferences. With its blend of spices and textures, it epitomizes the comfort food experience, making it a must-try for any taco enthusiast.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Crock Pot Chili

An easy and warming dish, perfect for chilly evenings. Combine ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices for a filling meal.

Vegetable Soup

A hearty mix of seasonal vegetables, beans, and herbs that can be customized to your taste. Great for using up leftover veggies.

Chicken Tortilla Soup

A flavorful soup with shredded chicken, corn, and diced tomatoes topped with crispy tortilla strips for added crunch.

Beef and Bean Burrito Bowl

Layer cooked rice with seasoned beef, black beans, corn, and your favorite burrito toppings for a satisfying meal.

Stuffed Peppers

Bell peppers filled with a mixture of rice, ground meat, and spices, baked to perfection for a colorful and nutritious dish.

Quesadillas

Quick and easy, these cheesy tortillas can be filled with various meats and vegetables for a delicious snack or meal.

Taco Salad

A fresh and crunchy salad topped with seasoned ground beef, beans, cheese, and your favorite taco toppings for a light yet filling option.