Slow Cooker Taco Soup Recipe With Simple And Nutritious Ingredients To Try

Enjoy the magic that comes to life when a medley of vibrant flavors simmer together for hours in a slow cooker taco soup recipe. Transforming humble pantry ingredients into a sensational dish, this slow cooker taco soup recipe is your ticket to an uncomplicated yet delicious meal. 

Layered with the robust notes of authentic Mexican spices, each spoonful unfolds a new story on your palate. Succulent proteins meld with hearty beans and corn, culminating in a broth that’s a warming embrace for your senses. As an encore, a sprinkle of cheese and a splash of lime invite you to the next mouthful. 

This recipe, effortlessly fitting into your busy schedule, offers a rich, comforting bowl that bridges the gap between simplicity and gastronomic delight. Brace yourself; the journey to a tantalizing Mexican fiesta is about to begin, one slow-cooked spoonful at a time.

What Is A Slow Cooker Taco Soup Recipe?

A slow cooker taco soup recipe is a hearty and comforting dish brimming with Mexican flavors. It’s prepared by slow-cooking, a blend of proteins like ground beef or chicken, beans, corn, tomatoes, and a mix of seasonings. 

The ingredients simmer together over hours, developing a depth of flavor that’s both rich and satisfying. This soup is finished off with cheese, sour cream, and a squeeze of lime, providing a delightful contrast to the robust, savory broth. It’s an easy, flavorful meal, perfect for any day.

History Of Slow Cooker Taco Soup Recipe

The slow cooker taco soup recipe is a fusion of Mexican culinary traditions and the modern convenience of slow cooking. 

Tacos, a staple in Mexican cuisine, are filled with a medley of flavorful ingredients similar to the ones used in this soup. As slow cookers became popular in the U.S. in the 1970s, they offered a way to tenderize cheaper cuts of meat and infuse flavors over hours of slow cooking. 

Marrying these concepts, the slow cooker taco soup emerged, offering a way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of tacos in a comforting, hassle-free soup loved for its simplicity and depth of taste.

Interesting Facts About Slow Cooker Taco Soup Recipe

• Versatile: The slow cooker taco soup recipe can be customized to cater to various dietary needs – it can be made vegetarian by swapping the meat for more beans or keto-friendly by omitting the corn and beans.
• Nutrient-rich: Packed with proteins, fiber, and an array of vitamins and minerals from the beans, corn, and tomatoes, it’s not just a flavorful treat but also a nutritious meal.
• Time saver: This recipe requires minimal prep time despite its intricate flavors. The slow cooker does the bulk of the work, making it a favorite among those with busy schedules.
• A Crowd-Pleaser: Its hearty, warming nature makes it a hit at potlucks, parties, and family dinners. You can easily adjust the quantity to serve a larger group.
• Freezer Friendly: The soup freezes well, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. You can make a large batch, freeze portions, and have ready-made meals for days.
• Pairing potential: This soup pairs beautifully with various sides – from a simple crusty bread or a green salad to more thematic sides like tortilla chips or Mexican rice.

What Makes Slow Cooker Taco Soup Recipe Special ?

The specialness of the slow cooker taco soup recipe is the harmonious melding of simplicity, versatility, and flavor. Simmering ingredients in the slow cooker over several hours allows for a depth and complexity of taste that’s hard to achieve with quick cooking. 

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability – it’s easily customizable to cater to various dietary needs or personal preferences. Furthermore, the nutritional balance of proteins, fiber, and vitamins and its warm, comforting nature elevates this dish from a simple soup to a nourishing meal. 

And lastly, the convenience of a slow cooker means a delectable, home-cooked meal with minimal effort, making this recipe a cherished favorite for many.

Ingredient Tips 

Ingredient Tips 

• Meat: Opt for lean ground beef or turkey to keep the soup healthier. If using chicken, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well.
• Beans: While black and kidney beans are traditional, don’t hesitate to experiment with other varieties like pinto or white beans. Ensure they are thoroughly rinsed and drained before use to remove excess sodium.
• Corn: Fresh, frozen, or canned corn can be used. If using canned, like with the beans, make sure to rinse and drain to remove excess salt.
• Tomatoes: Using diced tomatoes adds texture to the soup. For an extra flavor boost, consider fire-roasted tomatoes.
• Spices: Adjust the spices to your personal taste. For a smokier flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika.
• Broth: Using a good quality chicken or vegetable broth can significantly enhance the overall flavor of the soup.
• Toppings: Don’t skimp on the toppings. Grated cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced avocados, or even a few crushed tortilla chips can add a wonderful finishing touch to your soup.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

• Keto: Skip the beans and corn to keep it low-carb. Add more meat or non-starchy vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
• Paleo: Again, omit beans and corn. Replace with extra veggies or use sweet potatoes for a bit of bulk.
• Gluten-Free: This soup is naturally gluten-free. However, make sure your broth and taco seasoning are gluten-free, too, as some brands might include gluten-containing additives.
• Whole30: Make sure to use Whole30-compliant broth and taco seasoning. Omit corn and beans, and feel free to add other compliant veggies or up the protein with extra meat.
• Vegetarian or Vegan: Substitute meat with extra beans, lentils, or even tofu for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For vegans, skip the cheese and sour cream or use plant-based alternatives.

Recipe Directions 

• Brown beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Drain grease.
• Transfer beef to slow cooker; sprinkle with taco and ranch dressing mixes.
• Add diced tomatoes, green chiles, corn, and black beans with their liquid.
• Stir in black olives, onion, bell pepper, and tomato juice.
• Cook on low for 5 hours until vegetables are tender.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

• Variations: Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Use a variety of beans or add quinoa for extra protein.
• Add-Ons: Boost the veggie content by adding diced zucchini or carrots. Include a dash of smoked paprika or chipotle peppers for a smoky flavor.
• Toppings: Sprinkle shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream for creaminess. Add a handful of chopped cilantro for freshness.
• Avocado slices provide a smooth, rich texture and balance the soup’s heat.
• For crunch, garnish with crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions.
• A squeeze of lime just before serving brightens up the flavors.

Scaling The Recipe 

• To scale up: If you have a larger slow cooker (6-quart or larger), you can easily double the recipe. Just ensure that your slow cooker can accommodate the increased volume. This is great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain the flavor profile.
• To scale down: If you’re cooking for a smaller group or have a smaller slow cooker, you can halve the recipe. The cooking time should remain approximately the same, as slow cookers work best when they’re about half to two-thirds full.

What Is Used For Garnishing?

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkling of freshly chopped cilantro adds a refreshing note and a pop of color.
• Cheese: A handful of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, melts into the warm soup and adds a delightful creaminess.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top gives a cool, tangy contrast to the spicy soup.
• Avocado: Slices or cubes of ripe avocado provide a creamy richness.
• Lime: A wedge of lime served on the side allows diners to add a bright, citrusy zing according to their taste.
• Tortilla Chips: A few crushed tortilla chips add a delightful crunch.

Can I Make Soup In An Instant Pot?

• Use the ‘Sauté’ function on your Instant Pot to brown the beef until no longer pink. Make sure to break it into crumbles and to drain any excess grease.
• Sprinkle the browned beef with taco seasoning and ranch dressing mix, stirring to distribute the seasonings evenly.
• Add the diced tomatoes, green chiles, corn, black beans (all with their liquid), black olives, onion, and bell pepper to the pot.
• Stir in the tomato juice and make sure all ingredients are well mixed.
• Secure the lid, set the vent to ‘Sealing,’ and select the ‘Soup’ or ‘Manual’ setting. Cook at high pressure for about 15-20 minutes.
• Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10-15 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
• Open the lid, stir the soup well, and adjust seasonings if necessary.
• Serve hot with your choice of garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, and fresh cilantro.

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

You can certainly use store-bought broth in your slow-cooker taco soup recipe, and it can save you a significant amount of time. 

When purchasing broth, look for a high-quality product with minimal additives. Low-sodium versions are also a good choice because they allow you to control the salt level in your soup.

On the other hand, homemade broth can be a wonderful addition if you have the time and resources. It allows you to customize the flavor profile and is often more economical. You can make it in large batches and freeze in portion sizes for future use.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Soup?

• Meat: The recipe traditionally calls for ground beef, but you could substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You could also use diced chicken or even shredded pork for a different texture.
• Fish: While less common in a taco soup, you could experiment with adding fish or shrimp for a pescatarian version. Make sure to add these towards the end of cooking to prevent overcooking.
• Pasta: Small pasta shapes could be added to make the soup heartier. Cook the pasta separately and add it towards the end to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables you like or have on hand. Bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, or even spinach could be great additions. Just keep in mind the cooking time and size of the vegetable pieces so that everything cooks evenly.

Success Tips-Tips And Tricks For Making The Recipe 

Making soup, especially slow cooker soup, can be an easy and rewarding task. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure success:

Prepping Tips

• Prep in Advance: Chop all your vegetables and measure out your ingredients beforehand. It makes the cooking process smoother and less stressful.
• Rinse the Canned Goods: Rinse canned beans and corn to remove excess sodium.
• Freshness Matters: Use fresh vegetables and herbs when possible for the best flavor.
• Meat Choices: If using meat, choose cuts with good flavor and that tenderize with slow cooking.

Cooking Tips

• Layer Wisely: In a slow cooker, place tougher vegetables that need more cooking time, like onions and bell peppers, at the bottom, where they will get more heat.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Slow cookers work best when they are two-thirds to three-quarters full.
• Keep it Slow: Resist the urge to peek! Every time you lift the lid, heat escapes and slows down cooking.
• Add Dairy Last: If your recipe calls for dairy, add it in the last 15 minutes of cooking to prevent curdling.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Spices can lose some intensity during the long cooking time of a slow cooker.
• Chill to Skim Fat: If your soup is too fatty, chilling it in the fridge will harden the fat on top, making it easier to skim off.

Nutritional Values 

Discover the power-packed nutrition of our soups! Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, these hearty bowls offer a delicious and nourishing way to fuel your body and delight your taste buds.

What Are Total Calories In The Soup?

The total calories in a dish can vary widely based on the specific ingredients and quantities used. For a typical slow cooker taco soup recipe with ground beef, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes, you can expect roughly around 300-400 calories per serving. This estimate can change if you add cheese, sour cream, or other toppings.

Dietary Restrictions For The Soup

• Meat: The soup contains ground beef, which is unsuitable for vegetarians, vegans, or those following a plant-based diet.
• Dairy: If you garnish the soup with sour cream or cheese, it’s unsuitable for those with lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy and is not vegan-friendly.
• Gluten: While the ingredients listed are typically gluten-free, some store-bought taco seasonings or broths may contain gluten. Those with a gluten intolerance or celiac disease should ensure every ingredient used is certified gluten-free.
• Legumes: The black beans in the soup are unsuitable for those following a paleo or Whole30 diet or those with a legume allergy.
• Sodium: The soup could be high in sodium, primarily if you use canned ingredients and premade seasoning mixes. Those on a low-sodium diet should rinse canned goods and consider making their own seasoning mixes.
• Grains: The corn in the soup is unsuitable for those following a grain-free or paleo diet.

Health Benefits Of The Soup

• High Protein: Ground beef (or other meat) and black beans in the soup provide a good source of protein, essential for building and repairing body tissues.
• Fiber-Rich: The vegetables and beans in the soup are high in dietary fiber, promoting better digestion and potentially aiding in weight management by providing a sense of fullness.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Vegetables like tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions contribute essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, potassium, and folate.
• Low Calorie: Soup, by nature, is often lower in calories but still filling, which can aid in weight management.
• Hydrating: Because soup has a high water content, it can contribute to daily fluid intake, promoting hydration.
• Antioxidants: Many of the ingredients in the soup, such as tomatoes and bell peppers, are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body against harmful free radicals.
• Customizable: The soup can be easily adjusted to include other nutritious ingredients, such as additional vegetables or different proteins, based on personal preference and dietary needs.

Nutrition Table 

How Can I Make Soup Lower In Sodium?

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and beans over canned ones. Canned goods often have added salt as a preservative.
• Rinse Canned Goods: If you use canned vegetables or beans, rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess sodium.
• Homemade Taco Seasoning: Instead of store-bought taco seasoning, which can be high in sodium, make your own at home. That way, you can control the amount of salt added.
• Low-Sodium Broth: Choose a low-sodium or sodium-free option if you use store-bought broth.
• Mind Your Toppings: Be aware of the sodium content in your toppings. Cheese, sour cream, and certain sauces can add significant amounts of sodium.
• Spice It Up: Use herbs, spices, and other flavor enhancers like lime juice or fresh cilantro, which add flavor without increasing sodium.

How Can I Make Soup Lower In Sugar?

• Check Your Canned Goods: Some canned goods, especially tomatoes, can contain added sugars. Look for cans labeled “no added sugar” or “unsweetened.”
• Watch Your Seasonings: Pre-made seasoning mixes may contain hidden sugars. Making your own taco seasoning at home can help avoid this.
• Be Mindful of Toppings: Toppings like certain types of shredded cheese, sour cream, or store-bought guacamole could have added sugars. Check the labels, or make them at home when possible.
• Choose Your Broth Wisely: Some store-bought broths may contain added sugars. Check the label to make sure you’re choosing a sugar-free option.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh ingredients as much as possible. They’re less likely to contain added sugars than canned or processed options.

How To Serve The Soup In The Best Way?

• Bowls: Use deep bowls to serve the soup to accommodate the liquid and the hearty ingredients. Warm bowls can help keep the soup hot for longer.
• Garnishes: A dollop of sour cream, a sprinkling of shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, or diced avocados can add a burst of flavor and create a beautiful presentation.
• Sides: While the soup is a complete meal in itself, it pairs wonderfully with a side of cornbread, a green salad, or tortilla chips for extra crunch.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with a wedge of lime on the side. A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before eating can brighten up the flavors.
• Serving Spoons: Use ladles or large serving spoons to serve the soup, making sure each serving has a good mix of meat, beans, and vegetables.
• Drinks: A refreshing drink, such as iced tea or a fruity beverage, can complement the flavors of the soup.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement The Soup

• Cornbread: Cornbread is a classic pairing with any soup, and it would complement the flavors of the taco soup perfectly. You can even add jalapenos or cheese to the cornbread for an extra flavor kick.
• Mexican Rice: Light and fluffy Mexican rice can absorb the delicious broth from the soup and provide a nice texture contrast.
• Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad can balance the heartiness of the soup. Consider adding ingredients like corn, black beans, avocado, and a lime-based dressing to keep the flavors consistent.
• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: These can add a smoky flavor and a different texture that pairs well with the soup.
• Guacamole and Chips: The creaminess of the guacamole and the chips’ crunch would complement the soup’s textures.
• Quesadillas: Cheese quesadillas would provide a satisfying crunch, and the cheese would echo the flavors in the soup.
• Refried Beans: This classic Mexican side dish would add a creamy texture and further enhance the depth of flavors.

How Long Can We Store The Soup?

• Fridge: Allow the soup to cool down at room temperature for about 30 minutes before refrigerating it. Place the soup in airtight containers and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
• Freezer: If you want to store the soup for a longer period, freezing is a great option. Once cooled, place the soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some room at the top as the soup will expand when frozen. Make sure to label the containers with the date. The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the soup, if it’s frozen, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Heat the soup on the stove over medium heat until it’s hot, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in the microwave in a microwave-safe bowl.

Can I Make Soup In Advance?

• Preparing Ingredients: You can chop all your vegetables and measure out your spices the night before. Store them in the refrigerator, and they’ll be ready to go the next morning. If using ground meat, you can cook it ahead of time and refrigerate it.
• Slow Cooker: If you’re using a slow cooker, you can prepare the entire soup ahead of time. It will stay warm in the slow cooker for a few hours, making it perfect if you have guests or a party.
• Freezing: This soup freezes exceptionally well. Make a big batch and freeze it in portion-sized containers. That way, you have ready-made meals that need to be reheated.
• Refrigerator: Once cooked, the soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can reheat individual portions as needed.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

• Taco Filling: Use the soup as a filling for soft or crunchy tacos. Add some lettuce, cheese, and sour cream for a full-flavored taco.
• Baked Potatoes: Enhance the flavors of a baked potato by topping it with your leftover soup. Add some shredded cheese and green onions for extra flair.
• Pasta Sauce: Transform the soup into a chunky sauce for pasta. The flavors work well with a wide range of pasta types.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Use the soup as a filling for bell peppers, top with cheese, and bake until tender.
• Burrito Bowl: Serve over rice; add lettuce, tomatoes, avocados, and a dollop of sour cream for a quick and tasty burrito bowl.
• Enchilada Filling: Use the soup as enchilada filling, wrap it in tortillas, top with enchilada sauce and cheese, then bake.
• Omelette Filling: Make a unique and hearty breakfast by using the soup as a filling for an omelet
• Quesadilla Filling: Add the soup along with some cheese between tortillas for a twist on traditional quesadillas.

Special Tools/Equipment Needed

• Slow Cooker or Crock-Pot: To cook the soup slowly and allow the flavors to meld together.
• Cutting Board and Knife: For dicing the onion and green bell pepper.
• Can Opener: Open the cans of diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, and sliced black olives.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring the taco seasoning mix, ranch dressing mix, and tomato juice.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I Make This Soup Without A Slow Cooker?

Absolutely! You can make this soup in a regular pot. Just brown your meat, add all the other ingredients, and let it simmer on low for about an hour to let the flavors meld together.

Is It Necessary To Brown The Meat Before Adding It To The Slow Cooker?

Browning the meat isn’t essential, but it does add extra flavor. It also helps to remove excess fat from the ground beef, which can make your soup less greasy.

Can I Substitute Ground Beef With Another Type Of Meat?

Of course! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork would also work well in this recipe. If you prefer a vegetarian option, lentils or a meat substitute could be used.

Can I Add More Vegetables To The Soup?

Yes, you can add other vegetables according to your preference. Zucchini, carrots, or spinach would be great additions. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially for vegetables that might take longer to cook.

Is This Soup Spicy?

The soup has a bit of a kick due to the taco seasoning, but it’s not overly spicy. If you prefer a spicier soup, you can add some jalapenos or use a hot taco seasoning. If you prefer a milder flavor, use mild taco seasoning and omit any additional spicy ingredients.

Simple And Nutritious Slow Cooker Taco Soup Recipe At Home

5 from 1 vote

Recipe by Hanna Barnes Course: Soup Recipe

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

5

hours 

Calories

400

kcal

Slow cooker taco soup is a hearty, flavorful amalgamation of robust ingredients, offering a comforting warmth with each spoonful. Savory ground beef, creamy black beans, crunchy bell peppers, and tangy tomatoes are slow-cooked to perfection, subtly infused with the zest of taco and ranch seasoning.

Ingredients

• Ground Beef

• Taco Seasoning Mix

• Ranch Dressing Mix

• Diced Tomatoes and Green Chiles

• Corn

• Black Beans

• Sliced Black Olives

• Onion

• Green Bell Pepper

• Tomato Juice

Step-By-Step Directions 

• Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the beef to the skillet and cook, stirring regularly, until it is crumbly, evenly browned, and no longer pink.
• Carefully drain and discard any excess grease from the skillet.
• Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker.
• Sprinkle the cooked beef with the taco seasoning mix and ranch dressing mix.
• Now, add the diced tomatoes and green chiles, corn, and black beans to the slow cooker, making sure to include their liquids.
• Stir the black olives, onion, and bell pepper into the ground beef mixture.
• Pour in the tomato juice for added depth of flavor.
• Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on Low.
• Allow the soup to simmer until the vegetables are completely tender, which should take about 5 hours.
• Your slow-cooker taco soup is ready to serve when the vegetables are tender. Enjoy it as it is, or personalize it with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.

Notes

• It can be made vegetarian or vegan by substituting meat with plant-based alternatives.
• The soup is gluten-free, but always check the labels of pre-packaged ingredients to ensure they’re safe for specific dietary restrictions.
• It freezes well and makes for great leftovers.
• It is easily customizable with various toppings and add-ins to suit individual tastes.

• Author
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Hanna Barnes

Hanna is a writer at Soup Chick. Yulia's website reignited her passion for crafting affordable, veggie-packed soups. She is certified by the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts and has expertise in healthy, baking, and vegan cuisine. With years of food blogging and collaborating with chefs, she offers a range of recipes on Soup Chick, from classic broths to the heavenly slow cooker chicken tortilla soup. Join her in creating flavorsome, wholesome soups in your kitchen!

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