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This Crockpot Taco Soup is a weeknight hero! I love how minimal the prep is, allowing me to set it and forget it. The flavor is robust and satisfying, making it feel like a special meal even though it’s so easy. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, perfect for a casual family dinner or feeding a crowd. It’s truly a comforting and convenient option.
This Crockpot Taco Soup truly simplifies busy weeknights for me. I adore how little prep time it needs. You just toss everything in the slow cooker. The rich, satisfying flavors make it feel like a real treat. It’s wonderfully versatile, too. It’s a comforting staple.
Crockpot Taco Soup Ingredients
The magic of this Crockpot Taco Soup comes from the simple pantry staples uniting with bold Tex-Mex flavors. Each element plays a key role in crafting a hearty, deeply satisfying dish perfect for any gathering.
Core Ingredients
- Ground Beef: This makes the soup wonderfully filling. It provides a savory, hearty foundation.
- Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles: These offer a touch of sweetness. They bring acidity and a mild, pleasant heat.
- Tomato Sauce: It creates a smooth, rich liquid base.
- Black Beans: They add substance and fiber. Expect a creamy texture and earthy flavor.
- Corn Kernels: These bring a delightful pop of texture. They also add a touch of sweetness.
- Beef Broth: This forms the flavorful liquid foundation. It enhances all the savory notes.
- Spices (Chili Powder, Cumin, Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder): These are the true flavor powerhouses. They create that signature taco taste everyone loves.
Substitutions and Tips
Feel free to swap ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. For a vegetarian option, omit the beef and use vegetable broth. If you don’t have low-sodium beef broth, regular beef broth works fine. Just reduce the added salt then. Exact quantities for all ingredients are in the recipe card below!
How to Make Crockpot Taco Soup
Whipping up this flavorful Crockpot Taco Soup is surprisingly simple. You’ll brown some beef, then let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting. It’s a foolproof way to create a delicious, hearty meal.
Brown the Beef and Onion
Start by warming one tablespoon of olive oil in a big skillet. Use medium heat. Add one pound of ground beef. Break up the meat with a spoon. Toss in half a chopped onion. Cook until the beef is nicely browned. This step builds a crucial flavor layer for your easy taco soup.
Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Now, transfer the browned beef and onion mix to your slow cooker. Next, add in the savory beef broth. Pour in the 20 ounces of diced tomatoes with green chiles. Add the can of tomato sauce. Stir in the black beans and corn kernels. Sprinkle in your spices: chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and kosher salt.
Simmer to Perfection
Put the lid on your slow cooker. Cook it on high for 2 to 4 hours. Or choose low for 4 to 6 hours. This slow cooking process lets all the tastes meld beautifully. It creates a truly delicious Crockpot Taco Soup.
Finish and Serve
When the cooking time is up, give the soup a good stir. Squeeze in the fresh lime juice. This brightens up all the wonderful flavors. Taste it now. Add more lime juice or salt if you like. Serve your hearty Crockpot Taco Soup hot. Maybe add your favorite toppings!
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Crockpot Taco Soup
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-6 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes – 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and flavorful Crockpot Taco Soup recipe that’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- ½ tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ onion chopped
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 20 ounces diced tomatoes with green chiles (2 (10-ounce) cans)
- 15 ounces tomato sauce (1 can)
- 14.5 ounces canned black beans (1 can)
- 2 cups corn kernels fresh or frozen
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 lime juiced
- For Serving (Optional): Chopped fresh cilantro, Shredded cheese, Tortilla chips
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a large skillet set over medium heat.
- Add in the ground beef and use a wooden spoon to break it up into pieces.
- Add in the onion. Cook the beef and onion for a few minutes until the meat is browned.
- Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.
- Add in the beef broth, diced tomatoes with green chiles, tomato sauce, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
- Cook on high for 2-4 hours or on low for 4-6 hours.
- When cooking is complete, give the soup a stir.
- Squeeze in the juice of one lime. Taste, and add more lime juice and/or salt if needed.
- Serve with chopped fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, and tortilla chips.
Notes
- For a spicier soup, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef.
- If you don’t have low-sodium beef broth, use regular beef broth and adjust the salt accordingly.
How to Store Crockpot Taco Soup
Keeping your Crockpot Taco Soup tasty for later is super easy. Let it cool after cooking. Then, put leftovers into an airtight container. It stays good in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Want to save it even longer? Freeze the soup in freezer-safe bags or containers. It’ll be good for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before you reheat it.
Tips for Success
- Sautéing onions until soft boosts flavor. Do this before slow cooking.
- Don’t forget the lime juice at the end. It truly brightens the soup.
- Always taste and adjust seasonings. Broth and canned goods can vary in saltiness.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper. This gives it a little extra heat.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Gathering the right tools makes preparing this Crockpot Taco Soup a breeze! You likely have most of these kitchen staples already.
- A large skillet is needed for browning your beef.
- A trusty wooden spoon or spatula helps break up the meat.
- Your slow cooker, ideally a 4-quart or larger, is the star.
- A cutting board and knife are essential for chopping your onion.
- Measuring cups and spoons ensure perfect spice amounts.
- Airtight containers are handy for storing yummy leftovers.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your Crockpot Taco Soup experience with these simple serving ideas. They add extra flavor and texture.
- Top bowls with shredded cheddar cheese. A dollop of sour cream is also great. Fresh cilantro adds a nice touch.
- Serve your hearty soup with crunchy tortilla chips. Or, offer warm cornbread for dipping.
- A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette is a perfect accompaniment. It balances the rich soup beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Crockpot Taco Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can absolutely make this Crockpot Taco Soup ahead of time. The flavors meld even better when it sits overnight, you know? Just prepare the soup as instructed, let it cool down completely, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What are some good vegetarian or vegan substitutions for this Crockpot Taco Soup?
For a vegetarian version, simply leave out the ground beef. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can add more beans, corn, or even diced sweet potatoes for extra heartiness. To make it vegan, use vegetable broth always. Then, skip any dairy toppings like cheese or sour cream.
How can I make this Crockpot Taco Soup spicier?
Want more heat in your Crockpot Taco Soup? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper with the other spices. Or, stir in diced jalapeños near the end of cooking. You can also add a dash of your favorite hot sauce before serving, too.
