Set-It-Forget-It Taco Soup: Slow Cooker Recipe for Busy Nights

Meta Description:
Craving Tex-Mex flavors without the hassle? This 4-ingredient slow cooker taco soup combines savory beef, veggies, and zesty spices for a crowd-pleasing meal ready in under 4 hours!

What Is Slow Cooker Taco Soup?

Slow cooker taco soup is a flavorful, comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. Packed with seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and classic taco spices, this soup delivers vibrant Tex-Mex taste with minimal effort. Just set it and forget it while the flavors meld together in your crockpot.

Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef in your slow cooker taco soup. Simply brown the meat in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot. Cooking times remain similar, but you may want to check for doneness. The result is just as delicious with these lighter protein options.

What Other Beans Can I Use Besides Black Beans?

While black beans are traditional, you can swap in kidney beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas for unique flavor and texture variations in your slow cooker taco soup. Feel free to mix and match beans to suit your preferences.

Can I Add Other Vegetables Like Zucchini or Potatoes?

Absolutely! Adding zucchini, potatoes, or other veggies boosts nutrition and flavor. Chop into bite-sized pieces and add to the crockpot with the other ingredients. No need to change the cooking time—just check tenderness before serving and adjust seasonings if necessary.

How Can I Thicken My Slow Cooker Taco Soup?

If your soup is too watery, try these tricks:

• Remove some liquid and simmer it with a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) until thickened, then stir back into the soup.
• Add refried or mashed beans to thicken and add flavor.

Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?

Yes! Swap ground beef with plant-based protein like tofu, tempeh, or meat substitutes. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it vegetarian. The cooking process and delicious flavors stay just as satisfying.

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How to Store Slow Cooker Taco Sou

• Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for 3-4 days.
• Freeze cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for longer storage. Label with date and contents.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or microwave before serving.

Slow Cooker Taco Soup Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours (high) or 8 hours (low)
Total Time: 4 hr 15 min (high) / 8 hr 15 min (low)
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 packet (1.25 oz) taco seasoning mix
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 2 cups beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, tortilla strips

Instructions:

1. Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
2. Transfer beef to the slow cooker.
3. Add diced onion, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and beef broth.
4. Stir well to combine.
5. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours until veggies are tender and flavors meld.
6. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, and tortilla strips.