Slow Cooker Taco Soup
Looking for an easy and flavorful taco soup recipe? This slow cooker recipe is just what you need!
With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can have a warm and comforting bowl of taco soup ready when you get home.
So gather your ingredients, fire up the slow cooker, and let’s get cooking!
Origins
Tracing its roots to the fusion of Mexican and Texan flavors in the Southwest region of the US, Slow Cooker Taco Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish with a rich history.
Its ingredients – spices, meats, and vegetables – are slow cooked to perfection in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to blend together and create an aromatic and delicious soup.
Over time, variations of the recipe have emerged, with different regions and households adding their own unique twist to the dish.
Whether enjoyed on a cold winter day or at a summer cookout, Slow Cooker Taco Soup remains a beloved dish that brings people together.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Taco Soup
-1 lb ground beef
-1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
-1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
-1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
-1 (4 oz) can mild diced green chiles
-1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
-1 (1 oz) package taco seasoning
-1 (1 oz) package ranch dressing mix
-1 cup chicken broth
-Salt and pepper, to taste
-Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado, tortilla chips, etc.
Instructions
Let’s begin preparing your Slow Cooker Taco Soup with these steps.
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Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
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After that, transfer the cooked ground beef to your slow cooker.
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Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, taco seasoning, and ranch dressing mix to the slow cooker.
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Mix everything together until well combined.
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Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours.
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Once the cooking time has elapsed, stir the soup and serve hot.
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Optional toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro.
Enjoy your tasty Slow Cooker Taco Soup!
Tips for Cooking
When preparing Slow Cooker Taco Soup, it’s important to keep in mind some tips for optimal results.
Begin by browning the ground beef before adding to the slow cooker. This will help to enhance the flavor of the soup.
Additionally, don’t skimp on the seasoning – use a packet of taco seasoning and a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies to give the soup its classic taco flavor.
For a creamier texture, add a block of cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking and stir until melted. This will add a rich and creamy element to the soup.
Utilizing these tips will ensure a delicious and satisfying taco soup that everyone will love.
Final Thoughts
To finish your Slow Cooker Taco Soup experience, keep in mind a few tips for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
To start, feel free to customize the soup according to your taste. Spice it up with extra herbs and spices or add your favorite toppings.
Another great tip is to save some of the soup for the next day. The flavors will continue to blend together for an even richer taste.
Lastly, don’t forget to add some garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, or fresh cilantro. These toppings will give the soup a burst of flavor and creaminess.
With these tips in mind, enjoy your Slow Cooker Taco Soup to the fullest!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Pressure Cooker Instead of a Slow Cooker to Make This Taco Soup?
Yes, you can absolutely substitute a pressure cooker for a slow cooker when preparing this taco soup. The cooking time will be much shorter, but the end result will still be a delicious meal.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers of This Soup in the Refrigerator?
This soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To maintain its freshness, it is important to let the soup cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Following these steps will ensure your leftovers stay fresh and delicious.
Can I Substitute Ground Beef With Ground Turkey or Chicken?
Yes, you can swap out ground beef with ground turkey or chicken in this recipe. It will lend the soup a lighter and healthier flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary.
Can I Use Canned Beans Instead of Dried Beans in This Recipe?
Yes, it is possible to use canned beans instead of dried beans in this recipe. This will save you time because the beans are already cooked and can be used right away. Enjoy your taco soup!
Is This Taco Soup Suitable for Freezing?
Yes, this taco soup is ideal for freezing. It’s a great choice if you want to make a large batch and store leftovers for another time. Just let it cool down, divide it out, and freeze it!