Slow Cooker Taco Soup Recipe

A hearty, flavorful meal that is simple to prepare, this slow cooker taco soup is a delight for both the cook and the diners. Combining the robust flavors of ground beef, tomatoes, and beans, with the added zing of taco seasoning and ranch dressing, this soup will fill your home with tantalizing aromas as it cooks effortlessly in your slow cooker.

Photos of Slow Cooker Taco Soup Recipe

This recipe calls for common pantry items like ground beef, canned whole peeled tomatoes, kidney beans, and pinto beans. Two ingredients to note are taco seasoning and buttermilk ranch dressing mix. These are typically found in the spice aisle or dressing section of most supermarkets. If you can't find them, you could consider making homemade versions.

Essential Ingredients for Slow Cooker Taco Soup

Ground beef: This is used to add heartiness and protein to the soup. It is cooked before being added to the slow cooker.

Whole peeled tomatoes: These will break down in the slow cooker, adding a rich tomato flavor to the soup.

Kidney beans: A classic chili ingredient, these beans add texture and are a great source of fiber.

Pinto beans: Similar to kidney beans in texture, these add variety and extra nutrients.

Whole kernel corn: This adds a sweet contrast to the savory ingredients.

Taco seasoning: A blend of spices that gives the soup its Mexican-inspired flavor.

Buttermilk ranch dressing mix: This adds a tangy, creamy aspect to the soup, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

One reader, Emmye Sandberg says:

This slow cooker taco soup recipe is a game-changer! It's incredibly easy to make and the flavors are out of this world. The combination of the seasoned beef, beans, and corn creates a hearty and satisfying meal. Plus, the convenience of using a slow cooker makes it a go-to for busy weeknights. Highly recommended!

Emmye Sandberg

Techniques Required for Making Slow Cooker Taco Soup

How to brown ground beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir beef in the hot skillet for 5 to 7 minutes, or until browned and crumbly.

How to mix ingredients in slow cooker: Stir and mix together the browned ground beef, tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, corn, taco seasoning, and ranch dressing in the crock of a slow cooker.

How to cook in slow cooker: Cook on low for at least 3 hours.

How To Make Slow Cooker Taco Soup

This slow cooker taco soup is a great dish to make during busy days. Serve with tortilla chips for a more fun and authentic dining experience.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 3 hours 5 minutes

Total: 3 hours 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbGround Beef
14.5ozwhole peeled tomatoes(2 cans)
15ozkidney beans(1 can), drained and rinsed
15ozpinto beans(1 can), drained and rinsed
14ozwhole kernel corn(1 can)
1oztaco seasoning(1 pack)
1ozbuttermilk ranch dressing mix(1 pack)

Instructions

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook and stir beef in the hot skillet for 5 to 7 minutes, or until browned and crumbly.
Stir and mix together the browned ground beef, tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, corn, taco seasoning, and ranch dressing in the crock of a slow cooker.
Cook on Low for at least 3 hours.

Nutrition

Calories: 772.19kcal
Fat: 18.95g
Saturated Fat: 6.43g
Trans Fat: 0.90g
Monounsaturated Fat: 7.50g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.00g
Carbohydrates: 105.13g
Fiber: 31.41g
Sugar: 9.92g
Protein: 47.87g
Cholesterol: 56.84mg
Sodium: 430.51mg
Calcium: 203.55mg
Potassium: 2578.37mg
Iron: 11.77mg
Vitamin A: 37.85µg
Vitamin C: 21.54mg

Helpful Technique for Enhancing Slow Cooker Taco Soup

When browning the ground beef, make sure to break it up into small crumbles. This will not only ensure that the beef cooks evenly, but it will also allow the flavors from the taco seasoning and ranch dressing mix to permeate every bite of the soup. Additionally, don't rush the browning process. Taking the time to properly brown the beef will add a depth of flavor to the soup that can't be achieved otherwise.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Taco Soup in a Slow Cooker

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and brown the ground beef the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to save time the next day.

Use canned beans: Instead of cooking dried beans, use canned beans to save time and effort. Rinse them before adding to the slow cooker.

Set and forget: Let the slow cooker do the work for you. Once all the ingredients are in, simply set the timer and go about your day.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Taco Soup Recipe

ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to ground beef and can be used as a healthier option in the recipe.
whole peeled tomatoes - Substitute with diced tomatoes: Diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute for whole peeled tomatoes, providing a similar texture and flavor to the dish.
kidney beans - Substitute with black beans: Black beans can be used as a substitute for kidney beans, offering a different color and slightly different flavor while still providing a hearty and nutritious addition to the soup.
pinto beans - Substitute with cannellini beans: Cannellini beans can be used as a substitute for pinto beans, offering a creamy texture and mild flavor that complements the other ingredients in the soup.
whole kernel corn - Substitute with frozen corn: Frozen corn can be used as a substitute for whole kernel corn, providing a convenient and equally flavorful alternative for the recipe.
taco seasoning - Substitute with homemade taco seasoning: Homemade taco seasoning can be used as a substitute for store-bought seasoning, allowing for customization of flavors and reducing the sodium content in the dish.
buttermilk ranch dressing mix - Substitute with homemade ranch seasoning: Homemade ranch seasoning can be used as a substitute for buttermilk ranch dressing mix, offering a fresher and more customizable flavor profile for the soup.

Best Way to Serve Slow Cooker Taco Soup

Elevate the plating: When presenting the slow cooker taco soup, focus on creating a visually appealing arrangement. Use a wide-rimmed bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the soup. Ensure that the ingredients are evenly distributed for an aesthetically pleasing presentation.
Garnish with finesse: Add a touch of sophistication to the dish by garnishing with finely chopped fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream. The vibrant green of the cilantro and the creamy white of the sour cream will provide a beautiful contrast against the rich, hearty soup.
Artful drizzle: Before serving, drizzle a swirl of chipotle-infused olive oil over the top of the soup. This not only adds a layer of complexity to the flavor but also creates an elegant visual element that will impress the judges.
Customized condiment bar: Set up a condiment bar with an array of tortilla strips, shredded cheese, and sliced jalapeños. This allows the judges to customize their soup, adding an interactive and personalized touch to the presentation.
Attention to detail: Pay close attention to the rim of the bowl, ensuring it is clean and free of any drips or spills. A pristine presentation reflects a high level of professionalism and care in the culinary execution.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Taco Soup in a Slow Cooker

Skillet: A skillet is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It's a versatile tool for cooking the ground beef in this recipe.
Slow cooker: A slow cooker, also known as a crockpot, is an electric cooking appliance used for simmering at low temperatures. It's perfect for slowly cooking the taco soup to develop rich flavors.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the ingredients like the taco seasoning, ranch dressing mix, and other components of the soup.
Can opener: A can opener is necessary for opening the cans of whole peeled tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, and whole kernel corn.
Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the ingredients in the slow cooker and ensuring even distribution of flavors.
Chef's knife: A chef's knife is needed for chopping and preparing any additional ingredients, such as onions or garlic, if desired.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in cooking, so having measuring cups and spoons on hand is essential for this recipe.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Taco Soup

Allow the taco soup to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled soup into an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 4-5 days in the fridge.
If you plan to freeze the soup, follow these steps for the best results:
- Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion during freezing.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification later.
- Lay the bags flat in the freezer to save space and ensure even freezing.
- Frozen taco soup will maintain its quality for up to 3 months.
To reheat the refrigerated or frozen soup:
- If frozen, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
- Transfer the soup to a pot and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature.
- If the soup appears too thick after reheating, add a little water or broth to adjust the consistency.
Enjoy your reheated slow cooker taco soup topped with your favorite garnishes, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or crushed tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.

How To Reheat Leftover Taco Soup

Reheat the taco soup in a saucepan on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure even reheating without overcooking the ground beef or making the beans mushy.
If you're short on time, you can reheat individual portions of the soup in the microwave. Transfer the desired amount into a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent splatters, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the soup is heated through.
For a hands-off approach, you can reheat the taco soup in your slow cooker. Simply transfer the leftovers back into the slow cooker, set it to low heat, and let it warm up for about 1-2 hours, or until it reaches your preferred temperature. This method is perfect if you're planning to serve the soup later in the day.
If you want to add a crispy texture to your leftover taco soup, consider serving it with freshly fried tortilla strips. Cut corn tortillas into thin strips, fry them in hot oil until crispy, and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle the strips over the reheated soup for a crunchy contrast.
To enhance the flavor of your leftover taco soup, consider adding fresh toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream. These toppings will give your reheated soup a burst of fresh flavor and make it taste like it was just made.

Interesting Trivia About Taco Soup

Taco soup is a versatile dish that can be customized with various toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or tortilla strips.

Is Making Taco Soup in a Slow Cooker Budget-Friendly?

This slow cooker taco soup recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The combination of ground beef, tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, and corn provides a budget-friendly yet flavorful meal. The use of taco seasoning and buttermilk ranch dressing mix adds depth of flavor without breaking the bank. With an approximate cost of $15, this recipe can easily feed a family of four, making it a great option for those looking to save money without sacrificing taste. Overall Verdict: 9.

Is This Taco Soup Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This slow cooker taco soup recipe, while convenient and flavorful, may not be the healthiest option due to a few key ingredients:

Ground beef is high in saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease and other health issues when consumed in excess
Canned beans and corn often contain added sodium, which can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems
Taco seasoning and ranch dressing mixes are typically high in sodium and may contain artificial additives

However, this recipe can be easily modified to make it a healthier choice:

Opt for lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to reduce the saturated fat content
Choose low-sodium or no-salt-added canned beans and corn to control sodium intake
Make your own taco seasoning mix using a blend of spices like chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika to avoid artificial additives and control sodium levels
Replace the ranch dressing mix with a homemade version using Greek yogurt, buttermilk, and fresh herbs like dill and parsley

To further enhance the nutritional value of this soup, consider the following suggestions:

Add more vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Serve the soup with a side salad or a whole grain, such as quinoa or brown rice, to make it a more balanced meal
Top the soup with fresh, chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for added flavor and a boost of vitamin C
Use a portion of the beans to replace some of the ground meat, increasing the fiber content and reducing the overall fat in the recipe

Editor's Opinion on This Slow Cooker Taco Soup Recipe

This slow cooker taco soup recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of ground beef, beans, corn, and seasonings creates a delicious and satisfying meal. The use of a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a comforting and convenient dish. It's a versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and avocado. Overall, it's a fantastic recipe that's sure to become a family favorite.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker Taco Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic and chives

Garlic Bread: Warm and crispy garlic breadsticks with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese

Cornbread: Moist and buttery cornbread muffins with a hint of honey

Similar Recipes to Try If You Enjoy Taco Soup

Spicy Shrimp Tacos: These spicy shrimp tacos are a delicious and easy meal to make at home. The combination of juicy shrimp, spicy seasoning, and fresh toppings will have your taste buds dancing!

Mango Salsa Chicken: This mango salsa chicken recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. The juicy chicken paired with the fresh and tangy mango salsa creates a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress.

Creamy Potato Leek Soup: Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of this potato leek soup. The tender potatoes and flavorful leeks come together to create a comforting and satisfying soup that is perfect for any occasion.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Slow Cooker Taco Soup

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing large mushrooms with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a crowd-pleasing starter.

Bruschetta: Elevate a classic bruschetta by topping toasted baguette slices with a flavorful mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and balsamic glaze. This refreshing and vibrant appetizer is perfect for any occasion.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with warm, gooey chocolate when you cut into it. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and richness.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Create a luscious, creamy strawberry cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust. Top it with fresh, juicy strawberries for a burst of fruity flavor in every bite.

Why trust this Slow Cooker Taco Soup Recipe:

This slow cooker taco soup recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of savory ground beef, flavorful taco seasoning, and zesty buttermilk ranch dressing mix creates a rich and satisfying base. The addition of wholesome kidney beans, pinto beans, and whole kernel corn adds a hearty texture and a burst of color. With the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe allows for a hassle-free cooking experience, ensuring that the flavors meld together perfectly. Trust the rave reviews from our community of home cooks who have tried and loved this taco soup.

Share your thoughts and experiences with the Slow Cooker Taco Soup Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

How can I make this taco soup recipe vegetarian?

To make this taco soup recipe vegetarian, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based alternatives such as crumbled tofu, tempeh, or meatless crumbles. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.

Can I use chicken instead of ground beef in this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use chicken instead of ground beef in this recipe. Simply substitute the ground beef with an equal amount of diced or shredded chicken. You can also use ground turkey as a leaner alternative.

Can I add extra toppings to the taco soup?

Absolutely! You can customize your taco soup with a variety of toppings such as shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Feel free to get creative and add your favorite taco toppings to enhance the flavor of the soup.

How long can I store the leftover taco soup?

You can store the leftover taco soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to the container. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of water or broth to loosen up the soup as it thickens when refrigerated.

Can I make this taco soup recipe on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for stovetop cooking. Simply brown the ground beef in a large pot, then add the remaining ingredients and simmer over medium heat for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The flavors will meld together beautifully, and you'll have a delicious taco soup ready to enjoy.