Set-It-Forget-It Taco Soup: Slow Cooker Recipe for Busy Nights
Meta Description:
Craving Tex-Mex flavors without the hassle? This easy slow cooker taco soup combines savory beef, fresh veggies, and zesty spices for a crowd-pleasing meal ready in under 4 hours.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Taco Soup
This flavorful slow cooker taco soup is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. Packed with seasoned ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and classic taco seasoning, it delivers comforting Tex-Mex taste with minimal effort. Whether for a family dinner or casual gathering, this crockpot soup is sure to please.
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey or Chicken?
Yes. You can swap ground turkey or chicken for beef in your slow cooker taco soup. Brown the meat in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot. Cooking times remain similar, but adjust slightly if needed. The result is still delicious and perfect for any occasion.
What Other Beans Can I Use?
While black beans are traditional, kidney beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas work well too. Feel free to mix and match beans to suit your taste.
Can I Add Other Vegetables Like Zucchini or Potatoes?
Absolutely. Adding vegetables such as zucchini or potatoes boosts nutrition and flavor. Chop into bite-sized pieces and add to the slow cooker. No change in cooking time is necessary. Just check for doneness before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
How Can I Thicken My Slow Cooker Taco Soup?
If the soup is too watery, try these tips:
Remove some liquid and simmer it with a cornstarch and water slurry until thickened, then stir back in.
Or add refried or mashed beans to thicken and enhance flavor.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes. Replace ground beef with plant-based protein like tofu, tempeh, or meat substitutes. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The rest of the recipe and cooking instructions remain the same.
How to Store Slow Cooker Taco Soup
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
For longer storage, freeze cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or bags. Label with date and contents.
Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Slow Cooker Taco Soup Recipe
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours (high) or 8 hours (low)
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (high) or 8 hours 15 minutes (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:
- Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until cooked through. Drain excess fat.
- Transfer beef to the slow cooker.
- Add onion, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and beef broth.
- Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours until vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with optional toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, and tortilla strips.
