Delightful Crockpot Tortilla Soup (Creamy And Comforting Meal)

When you are short on time, you may not want to spend hours in the kitchen cooking.This is when crockpot dinners, such as crockpot tortilla soup, are ideal, as you can put everything in the pot in the morning. Then, when you come home, you only need to serve the dish.

This simple dump-and-go recipe uses common pantry staples that are easy to find.

With that being said, this recipe might use very basic ingredients, but it is packed full of flavor that the whole family will enjoy. 

Read on to learn our easy-to-follow recipe that can help you make this delicious crockpot tortilla soup.

What Is Crockpot Tortilla Soup?

This chicken tortilla soup in the crock pot is simple to prepare, loaded with vegetables and protein, and incredibly filling.

It’s a terrific recipe to have in your back pocket for hectic weeks because it calls for common cupboard goods. 

Due to the vast amounts of sweet corn, chicken, black beans, and fire-roasted tomatoes in this dish, your family will adore this soup.

Additionally, we must not overlook the tortilla strips placed on top to add a great crunch.

This dish will appeal to you because it doesn’t require browning or sautéing, making preparation incredibly simple and requiring little hands-on time.

Once it’s cooked, everyone can add toppings, including chopped fresh cilantro, avocado, sour cream, cheese, and jalapeños.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients? 

• Keto Replace the beans and corn with low-carb vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower. Use bone broth for added nutrients.
• Paleo Omit beans and corn, and ensure you’re using a paleo-friendly chicken stock. Consider adding more vegetables like bell peppers.
• Gluten-Free Make sure your chicken stock and canned tomatoes are gluten-free. Use gluten-free tortillas for the topping.
• Whole30 Skip the beans, corn, and cheese. Add in more vegetables and use Whole30-compliant chicken stock.
• Vegetarian Replace chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh and use vegetable stock.
• Vegan Follow the vegetarian adjustments and omit any dairy-based toppings, replacing them with vegan cheese and sour cream.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings 

Variations

• Seafood: Swap chicken for shrimp or fish for a pescatarian version.
• Vegan Protein: Use tofu, tempeh, and vegetable stock for a plant-based twist.

Add-Ons

• Corn Kernels: Adds sweetness and texture.
• Bell Peppers: For additional color and flavor.
• Zucchini: For a green, nutrient-rich addition.

Toppings

• Queso Fresco or Cotija: Authentic Mexican cheeses that crumble easily.
• Sliced Olives: A hint of tanginess.
• Fresh Cilantro: For a herby lift.
• Sliced Radishes: Adds a peppery crunch.
• Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa that complements the soup’s depth.
• Sliced Green Onions: For a mild, oniony zest.

Can I Make Crockpot Tortilla Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot? 

The versatility of Crockpot Tortilla Soup extends to the cooking appliances you can use.

Slow Cooker

• The slow cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich, intensely flavored soup. 
• Follow the original recipe, setting your slow cooker to either high or low depending on your timing needs.

Instant Pot

• For those short on time, the Instant Pot can be a lifesaver. 
• Use the ‘Sauté’ function to soften the onions, add other ingredients, and switch to ‘Pressure Cook.’ 
• Cooking time is generally around 20-30 minutes on high pressure. 
• Make sure to release the pressure before opening quickly.

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own? 

Both store-bought and homemade broths have their merits, and the choice often comes down to your preferences and time constraints.

Store-Bought Broth

• This is a convenient, quick option that’s ready to use. Opt for low-sodium, organic versions to ensure better quality and control over seasoning. 
• Some even come in flavors like roasted garlic or herb-infused, adding an extra layer to your soup.

Homemade Broth

• If you have the time, making broth from scratch allows for customization. You can control the salt content, choose your mix of vegetables, and even add herbs for a more complex flavor profile.

How To Serve ? 

• It is best to serve this crockpot tortilla soup while it is hot. You can serve it as it is, or you may add a variety of toppings, as mentioned above.
• Since this is such a filling dish, there is no need to include other side dishes while serving this soup.
• The crispy tortilla strips act as a side dish to the soup. They are great when dunked in the soup or eaten alongside it.
• In addition to this, since this soup also includes plenty of protein and vegetables, there is no need to serve it with a side salad.
• As a result, this crockpot tortilla soup is already the perfect full meal, which is why it is ideal to make during the week when you are limited on time.
• A complete meal is made; you only need to create and serve the tortilla strips. 

Perfect Side Dishes  

• Cornbread: A slice of warm, moist cornbread pairs beautifully, soaking up the broth and adding a different texture.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: This subtly flavored rice complements the soup’s spiciness while providing a filling carbohydrate.
• Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness and spices of the soup.
• Cheese Quesadillas: These make for an indulgent, cheesy side that complements the soup’s Mexican flavors.
• Grilled Vegetables: A plate of grilled peppers, zucchini, and onions can add color and a smokey flavor.
• Fresh Salsa or Pico de Gallo: Serve as a refreshing palate cleanser between spoonfuls of the hearty soup.

Storage And Make Ahead

• Prep in Advance: Chop vegetables, trim meat, and measure out seasonings the night before.
• Marinate Overnight: Let the beef marinate in spices and broth overnight in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
• Store Ingredients Separately: Keep chopped vegetables and seasoned meat in separate airtight containers in the fridge until ready to use.
• Freeze for Future Use: Portion out prepped ingredients into freezer bags for longer storage.
• Cook in Batches: Make a double batch and freeze half for later use, ensuring a hearty meal is always on hand.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

• Enchilada Filling: Shred the chicken and combine it with some of the soup’s beans and vegetables for a rich enchilada filling.
• Rice Bowl: Layer the soup over a bed of cooked rice, adding extra toppings for a new texture and flavor combination.
• Taco Night: Use the cooked chicken and vegetables as a taco filling. Add some cheese, and you’ve got a quick taco meal.
• Stuffed Peppers: Mix the leftovers with cooked rice and stuff into bell peppers before baking.
• Quesadilla: Use the shredded chicken and vegetables as a quesadilla filling, adding cheese and pan-frying until crispy.
• Frittata: Stir the soup into beaten eggs and bake for a flavorful frittata, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Tips

• Sear the Meat: Brown the beef before adding it to the slow cooker for deeper flavor.
• Layer Ingredients: Place denser vegetables like potatoes and carrots at the bottom and meat on top to ensure even cooking.
• Use Low-Sodium Broth: Control the salt content by opting for low-sodium broth and seasoning to taste.
• Add Herbs at the End: Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving for a burst of flavor.
• Thicken if Necessary: If the stew is too thin, mix cornstarch with water and add it to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking to thicken the broth.

Nutrition Table