Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Taco Soup Recipe
You’re going to love this Slow Cooker Taco Soup recipe for its incredible ease and flavor.
I can’t get enough of how simple it’s to prepare—just throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work! The aroma fills my kitchen, making it hard to wait.
It’s packed with hearty ingredients that create a deliciously comforting dish, perfect for chilly evenings. Plus, it’s versatile; you can customize it with your favorite toppings.
Whether I’m serving it to guests or enjoying a quiet night in, this taco soup always hits the spot and leaves everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Taco Soup
If you’re ready to whip up a delicious Slow Cooker Taco Soup, you’ll be pleased to know that the ingredients list is both simple and satisfying. No need for fancy-schmancy items here—just good, hearty staples that come together to create a warm, comforting bowl of goodness.
Think of this soup as a hug in a bowl, perfect for those cozy nights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.
Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- 1 lb 85% lean ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 (16 ounce) can chili beans, with liquid
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, with liquid
- 1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, with liquid
- 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 2 cups water
- 2 (14 1/2 ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chili peppers
- 1 (1 1/4 ounce) package taco seasoning mix
Now, let’s talk about the ingredients a bit more. You might’ve noticed that this recipe calls for canned beans and corn.
I know what you’re thinking—fresh is always better, right? But trust me on this one; the canned versions save you time and still pack a punch in flavor. Plus, they come with that lovely liquid which adds to the soup’s overall heartiness.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you could swap out the ground beef for turkey or even a plant-based protein. And don’t forget to personalize it! Add your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado to really make it your own.
Whether you’re making this for a family gathering or just for yourself, the ingredients are flexible and forgiving—just like a good friend.
How to Make Slow Cooker Taco Soup
Making Slow Cooker Taco Soup is a breeze, and honestly, it’s one of those recipes that makes you feel like a culinary genius with very little effort. First things first, grab that 1 lb of 85% lean ground beef and cook it in a medium skillet over medium heat. You want to brown it until it’s cooked through and no longer pink. This step might feel a bit tedious, but trust me, it’s worth it.
While you’re at it, you can multitask by chopping that onion, giving your soup a nice flavor boost. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat and set it aside. Easy peasy, right?
Now, here comes the fun part. In your trusty slow cooker, toss in the cooked ground beef, your onion, and all those delightful canned ingredients: the 16-ounce can of chili beans (liquid and all, don’t be shy), the 15-ounce can of kidney beans (yes, with liquid), the 15-ounce can of whole kernel corn (liquid included), and the 8-ounce can of tomato sauce.
Then, pour in 2 cups of water, and add two 14 1/2-ounce cans of diced tomatoes, the 4-ounce can of diced green chili peppers, and the star of the show—1 (1 1/4 ounce) package of taco seasoning mix. Give it a good stir to blend everything together. It’s like a party in there.
Once your ingredients are happily mingling, cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on Low for 8 hours. Yes, 8 hours. This is the part where you can go about your day, forgetting you even have a pot of deliciousness bubbling away.
Whether you’re out running errands or binge-watching your favorite series, the aroma that wafts through your home will make you feel like the best chef ever. Just imagine coming home to a warm bowl of taco soup, ready to be enjoyed.
And when you’re ready to serve, don’t forget those fun toppings—cheese, sour cream, or maybe some avocado. You deserve it.
Slow Cooker Taco Soup Substitutions & Variations
While Slow Cooker Taco Soup is delicious as is, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to make it your own.
You can easily swap ground beef for turkey or even a plant-based protein for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add jalapeños or use spicy taco seasoning.
Want to skip the beans? Try adding quinoa or rice instead. For a creamier texture, mix in some cream cheese before serving.
Don’t forget to experiment with toppings—avocado, cilantro, or shredded cheese can elevate the flavors.
Get creative and customize it to suit your taste!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Taco Soup
Wondering what to pair with your Slow Cooker Taco Soup? I love serving it with crunchy tortilla chips for that satisfying texture contrast.
A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy richness, while fresh avocado or guacamole brings a delightful creaminess that complements the bold flavors. Don’t forget shredded cheese—cheddar or Monterey Jack works beautifully!
I often add a simple side salad with lime vinaigrette for a revitalizing touch. If you’re feeling adventurous, cornbread or quesadillas make fantastic accompaniments too.
Additional Tips & Notes
To elevate your Slow Cooker Taco Soup experience, consider a few helpful tips.
First, I love adding fresh cilantro or avocado as a garnish for extra flavor. If you want more heat, toss in some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also substitute ground beef with turkey or plant-based options if you prefer.
For a thicker soup, blend part of the beans before adding them. Finally, let the soup sit for a bit after cooking; the flavors meld beautifully.
Enjoy experimenting with different toppings like cheese, sour cream, or tortilla chips for a fun twist!