Crock Pot Taco Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines the rich flavors of a taco into a hearty, satisfying soup. Made with tender ground meat, beans, corn, and a mix of spices, it’s a one-pot dish that cooks effortlessly in your slow cooker. This soup is packed with delicious ingredients that provide a savory, slightly spicy flavor, making it the perfect meal for a cozy night in or a busy weeknight dinner. The best part? You can prepare it in advance, let the Crock Pot do the work, and have a hot, flavorful meal waiting for you when you’re ready to serve.

This taco soup is so versatile that you can tailor it to suit your preferences, whether you want to add more heat with extra chili peppers, or keep it mild for the whole family. Topped with sour cream, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser that will make you crave it over and over again.

Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Taco Soup

The beauty of Crock Pot Taco Soup is in its simplicity and convenience. With minimal prep work, all the ingredients come together in one pot, and the slow cooking process melds the flavors perfectly. It’s an ideal dish for busy families, meal prepping, or even serving a large crowd. You can also easily double the recipe for larger gatherings, making it a go-to option for game days or casual get-togethers. Plus, this soup is naturally gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free by skipping the cheese and sour cream toppings, making it a great choice for various dietary needs.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment + Importance of Each Tool

To make this Crock Pot Taco Soup, there are a few essential tools you’ll need to ensure everything cooks perfectly:

Crock Pot/Slow Cooker – The most important tool for this recipe, the Crock Pot allows the ingredients to simmer slowly over several hours, enhancing the flavor and tenderness of the meat and vegetables. A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe.
Large Skillet or Pan – You’ll need this for browning the ground meat before adding it to the slow cooker. Browning helps to develop a deeper flavor and texture in the meat.
Cutting Board & Knife – These will be essential for chopping the onion, garlic, and any additional veggies or toppings you may want to add.
Measuring Cups & Spoons – These are necessary for accurately measuring out the spices, broth, and other ingredients to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula – A good spoon is key for stirring the ingredients in the Crock Pot and breaking up the meat as it cooks.

Having the right tools ensures that you can prepare the dish efficiently and safely, while allowing all the ingredients to meld together nicely.

Preparation Tips

Brown the Meat First: Always brown the ground beef or turkey before adding it to the Crock Pot. This step not only improves the flavor but also gives the soup a better texture. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from being greasy.
Customize the Heat: If you like your soup spicy, feel free to add some diced jalapeños or extra chili powder. You can also use a spicy salsa to give it a little extra kick.
Use High-Quality Broth: The broth is the base of your soup, so make sure to use a flavorful one. You can go with chicken, beef, or vegetable broth, depending on your preference. Homemade broth will give the soup an even richer flavor.
Layer the Ingredients: For the best results, layer your ingredients in the Crock Pot. Start with the liquid base, then add beans, corn, tomatoes, and spices on top. This helps the flavors combine evenly during the slow cooking process.
Stir Once Halfway Through: While the slow cooker does most of the work, it’s helpful to stir the soup once or twice during cooking to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed and the flavors are blending together well.

Ingredients for Crock Pot Taco Soup

The ingredients for this Crock Pot Taco Soup are simple but pack a punch of flavor. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey) – The base protein of the soup, providing richness and heartiness.
1 onion, chopped – Adds a savory depth to the soup’s flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced – A classic aromatic ingredient that enhances the overall taste.
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed – Adds protein and fiber for a satisfying meal.
1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained – Provides sweetness and texture to balance the spices.
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes – A juicy and tangy base for the soup.
1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies – Adds a subtle heat and flavor.
1 packet taco seasoning – The perfect blend of spices for that signature taco flavor.
1 cup beef or chicken broth – Helps to bring everything together and create the soup’s delicious liquid base.
1 tablespoon chili powder – Adds extra heat and a touch of smokiness.
1 teaspoon cumin – A warm, earthy spice that complements the taco seasoning.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – Enhances the depth of the flavor with a mild smoky taste.
1/4 teaspoon salt – To season and balance the flavors.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper – For a slight hint of heat and to round out the flavors.

Optional Toppings:

Sour cream – For creaminess and tang.
Shredded cheddar cheese – Adds richness and a cheesy layer of flavor.
Chopped cilantro – Fresh and vibrant, it enhances the soup’s freshness.
Tortilla chips – For crunch and added texture.
Sliced avocado – Adds a creamy and refreshing finish.

This combination of ingredients creates a well-balanced and flavorful taco soup that’s sure to satisfy your cravings!

Step 1, Step 2, 3 …

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the cooked meat aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent, and the garlic becomes fragrant. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.

Step 3: Add Ingredients to the Crock Pot

Transfer the cooked ground meat, onion, and garlic mixture to the Crock Pot. Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and green chilies to the pot.

Step 4: Add Seasonings

Sprinkle the taco seasoning, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over the ingredients in the Crock Pot. Pour in the broth and stir everything together until all the ingredients are well mixed.

Step 5: Set the Crock Pot

Cover the Crock Pot with its lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally if possible to help the flavors meld.

Step 6: Check and Adjust

Once the cooking time is up, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or chili powder depending on your desired flavor. If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth to achieve your preferred consistency.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the soup into bowls, and top with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, and crushed tortilla chips. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of your Crock Pot Taco Soup!

Notes

Make It Ahead: This taco soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Make It Spicy: If you love heat, try adding a diced jalapeño or extra chili powder. You can also use spicy salsa or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian version, simply substitute the ground meat with a plant-based protein or additional beans like pinto or kidney beans.
Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to get creative and add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the Browning Step: Don’t skip browning the meat. While it may seem easier to throw everything in the Crock Pot uncooked, browning the meat first helps develop deeper flavors and improves the texture.
Overcrowding the Crock Pot: If your Crock Pot is too small or if you double the recipe, the ingredients may not cook evenly. Make sure to give everything enough room to cook properly.
Not Stirring: Stirring halfway through the cooking process helps ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed and that the meat doesn’t clump together. It also helps the broth mix with the spices and seasonings.
Not Adjusting Seasonings: Always taste the soup at the end of cooking. Sometimes you may need to add a little more seasoning to balance out the flavors, especially if the broth is more diluted than you prefer.
Using Low-Quality Broth: The broth is a key part of this soup’s flavor. Don’t skimp on quality, as a bland broth will make the whole dish taste flat. Consider using homemade broth or a high-quality store-bought option.

What to Serve With Crock Pot Taco Soup?

Crock Pot Taco Soup is hearty and flavorful on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal. Here are some great options to serve alongside this delicious soup:

8 Recommendations:

Cornbread – A warm, slightly sweet cornbread is the perfect complement to the savory taco soup, helping to balance the spices and add some texture.
Tortilla Chips – Crunchy tortilla chips are not only great for dipping into the soup but also make an excellent garnish for extra crunch and flavor.
Mexican Rice – A side of fluffy, seasoned Mexican rice pairs wonderfully with taco soup, adding a bit of extra heartiness to the meal.
Guacamole – Rich, creamy guacamole with some lime and cilantro provides a cool contrast to the spicy soup and is always a crowd-pleaser.
Shredded Lettuce – A fresh, crisp salad of shredded lettuce adds a refreshing crunch when served as a side dish or as a topping for the soup.
Grilled Vegetables – Roasted or grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn complement the soup’s flavors and add a healthy, vibrant touch to the meal.
Quesadillas – Serve up some cheesy quesadillas on the side for a satisfying, melt-in-your-mouth pairing that takes the taco theme to the next level.
Sour Cream & Salsa – On the side or as toppings, these add extra creaminess and zest to the taco soup, and you can offer a variety of salsa options depending on your spice preference.

These sides will balance out the flavors of your Crock Pot Taco Soup, making it an even more satisfying and well-rounded meal.

Storage Instructions (and Reheating if Applicable)

Crock Pot Taco Soup is an excellent make-ahead meal and can be stored easily for later enjoyment.

Storing: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you want to store the soup for a longer period, you can freeze it. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating:

On the Stove: Pour the soup into a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is hot. If the soup has thickened too much during storage, add a little extra broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
In the Microwave: Place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Adjust the time as needed depending on the portion size.

Estimated Nutrition

The nutrition values can vary depending on the ingredients used and portion sizes, but here’s an approximate breakdown for one serving of Crock Pot Taco Soup (based on 6 servings):

Calories: 350-400 kcal
Protein: 25-30g
Fat: 15-20g
Carbohydrates: 30-35g
Fiber: 6-8g
Sugar: 4-6g
Sodium: 600-800mg

These values can be adjusted based on the ingredients used (such as choosing leaner meat or low-sodium broth) and the toppings you choose to add. This taco soup is a balanced meal, providing a good mix of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this recipe?

Yes, ground turkey works perfectly as a leaner alternative to beef. It will still provide great flavor, especially when combined with the taco seasoning and spices.

2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the meat and use additional beans, such as kidney beans or pinto beans, for added protein. You can also include vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra texture and flavor.

3. How spicy is this taco soup?

The spiciness of the soup can be adjusted based on your personal preference. If you prefer a mild version, use a mild salsa and skip any extra chili peppers. For more heat, you can add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder.

4. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned ones?

Yes, you can use fresh vegetables instead of canned ones. If using fresh corn, be sure to cook it beforehand, and fresh tomatoes can be diced and added in place of canned tomatoes.

5. Can I make this soup in the Instant Pot?

Yes, you can! Sauté the meat, onion, and garlic in the Instant Pot first using the sauté function. Then add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 10-15 minutes. Release the pressure and serve.

6. Can I freeze leftover taco soup?

Yes, Crock Pot Taco Soup freezes very well. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

7. How can I make this soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender to create a creamier texture. Alternatively, you can add a small amount of tomato paste or cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it up.

8. Can I make this soup spicier?

Yes! If you want to add more heat to your taco soup, try adding extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced fresh jalapeños. You can also use a spicy salsa or hot sauce for a little extra kick.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Taco Soup is the ultimate comfort food with its rich, savory flavors and easy preparation. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to your tastes, and the slow-cooking method allows the flavors to develop perfectly. Whether you make it ahead, freeze it for later, or serve it at a gathering, it’s sure to become a family favorite. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a hearty and delicious meal that’s packed with protein, fiber, and a bit of spice!