Crock Pot Taco Soup

Crock Pot Taco Soup is a hearty and delicious dish that brings the vibrant flavors of taco night right into your kitchen. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, satisfying everyone with its rich combination of beans, corn, and seasoned ground beef. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite toppings to make each bowl uniquely yours!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Just toss all your ingredients into the crock pot and let it do the work!
• Flavor-Packed: The blend of taco seasoning, enchilada sauce, and fresh ingredients creates a robust taste.
• Versatile Options: Customize with toppings like cheese, sour cream, or tortilla strips to suit your taste.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Family Favorite: Perfect for both kids and adults—everyone will love this comforting dish!

Tools and Preparation

To make your Crock Pot Taco Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is key for preparing the soup over several hours, allowing all flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Large skillet: Perfect for browning the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker, ensuring great texture and flavor.
• Mixing spoon: A sturdy spoon helps you stir ingredients thoroughly without damaging your pots.

Ingredients

Crock Pot Taco Soup is a flavorful soup filled with beans, corn, ground beef and taco seasoning. Top it with all your favorite taco toppings!

Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans (drained and rinsed)
– 1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans (drained and rinsed)
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) petite diced tomatoes (drained)
– 1 can (15.25 ounces) sweet corn (drained)
– 1 can (10 ounces) green enchilada sauce
– 2 cans (14 ounces, each) beef broth (or chicken broth)
– 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
– 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
– 2 Tablespoons cornstarch + 2 Tablespoons water

For the Ground Beef:

• lean ground beef

For the Beans:

• black beans
• pinto beans

For the Vegetables:

• petite diced tomatoes
• sweet corn

For Flavor:

• green enchilada sauce
• beef broth or chicken broth
• taco seasoning
• tomato paste

For Thickening:

• cornstarch
• water

How to Make Crock Pot Taco Soup

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Brown and crumble ground beef in a large skillet until thoroughly cooked. Drain grease. Add beef to a large greased crock pot.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot

Add black beans, pinto beans, petite diced tomatoes, sweet corn, green enchilada sauce, chicken broth, taco seasoning, and tomato paste to the crock pot. Stir to combine well.

Step 3: Cook on Low Heat

Cover with lid and cook on low heat for about 3 to 6 hours. This allows flavors to develop while keeping everything moist.

Step 4: Thicken the Soup

Mix together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the soup in the crock pot and stir well. Cover again and let heat for another 30 minutes until thickened.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Serve soup warm with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, tortilla strips, or sour cream. Enjoy every savory bite!

With these simple steps, you can create a delightful bowl of Crock Pot Taco Soup that will surely become a staple in your home!

How to Serve Crock Pot Taco Soup

Crock Pot Taco Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: Add a generous sprinkle of your favorite cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, for extra creaminess.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a cool and tangy flavor that complements the spicy soup.
• Tortilla Strips: Crunchy tortilla strips provide a satisfying texture and make for an appealing presentation.
• Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado slices enhance the richness and add a creamy element to each bowl.
• Chopped Cilantro: This herb adds freshness and brightens up the overall flavor of the soup.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: A warm slice of cornbread pairs perfectly with the soup and soaks up all the delicious flavors.
• Guacamole: Serve guacamole on the side for an extra layer of flavor that enhances every spoonful.
• Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the soup for a zesty finish that balances the richness.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Taco Soup

To ensure your Crock Pot Taco Soup turns out amazing every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Lean Meat: Opting for lean ground beef not only makes for a healthier dish but also prevents excess grease from affecting your soup’s texture.
• Rinse Canned Beans: Rinsing beans removes excess sodium and improves their overall flavor in the soup.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of taco seasoning or use a mild version to suit your taste buds.
• Incorporate Fresh Vegetables: Adding diced bell peppers or onions can enhance both flavor and nutrition, making your soup even more satisfying.
• Cook Low and Slow: For best results, let your Crock Pot work its magic on low heat, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over several hours.
• Thicken to Your Liking: Adjust the thickness of your soup by adding more cornstarch slurry or letting it cook longer uncovered.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Taco Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Crock Pot Taco Soup can enhance your meal’s appeal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the bold flavors of taco soup beautifully.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add additional protein and richness, making them an excellent side option.
3. Salad Greens: A light salad with lime vinaigrette offers freshness that balances out the heartiness of the soup.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and beans can serve as a hearty complement to each bowl.
5. Nachos: Tortilla chips topped with cheese, jalapeños, and other toppings create a fun finger food option alongside the soup.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter provides a delightful contrast to the spiciness of taco soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crock Pot Taco Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not browning the meat properly: Failing to brown the ground beef can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always cook it until fully browned before adding it to the crock pot.
• Skipping the draining step: Leaving liquid in canned beans or corn can make your soup too watery. Be sure to drain and rinse these ingredients for the best texture.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: The amount of taco seasoning can vary in flavor intensity. Taste the soup during cooking and adjust seasonings as needed for your preferred taste.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking times can differ based on your crock pot model. Monitor the time carefully; aim for 3 to 6 hours on low heat to achieve perfect results.
• Neglecting toppings: Toppings add flavor and presentation! Don’t forget to include cheese, sour cream, or tortilla strips when serving for a delicious finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing Crock Pot Taco Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Label your container with the date for easy reference.

Reheating Crock Pot Taco Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on high in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crock Pot Taco Soup?

Crock Pot Taco Soup is a hearty dish made with ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and taco seasoning that cooks easily in a slow cooker.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you want a lighter version of this Crock Pot Taco Soup.

How spicy is this taco soup?

The spiciness depends mainly on the taco seasoning used. You can choose mild or hot varieties based on your preference.

Can I customize my toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any toppings you love such as avocado, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro for added flavor.

How long does it take to cook?

Crock Pot Taco Soup typically takes between 3 to 6 hours on low heat. Adjust according to your crock pot’s settings.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Taco Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various proteins and toppings according to your tastes. Whether you serve it at a gathering or enjoy it as a cozy meal at home, this recipe will surely please everyone. Give it a try!