There’s a certain kind of magic when a recipe transcends the boundaries of the kitchen and intertwines with cherished memories. For me, the crockpot taco soup evokes images of my family’s summer road trip to New Mexico. Amid the backdrop of desert vistas and adobe dwellings, we dined at a local eatery where my tastebuds first encountered this Southwestern delicacy. It wasn’t just the flavors that struck a chord but the shared laughter, the sunsets, and the aroma of spices wafting through the evening air. The desire to recreate that experience led me to experiment and perfect the taco soup for the crock pot.
Today, I wish to share this special dish with you. Whether you’re reminiscing a past journey, planning a gathering with friends and neighbors, or simply seeking a hearty meal for your family, this recipe is sure to deliver smiles and satiated appetites. Let’s delve into how to craft this bowl of Tex-Mex wonder!
How to Prepare Crockpot Taco Soup
Ingredients for Crockpot Taco Soup
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 1 (16 ounce) can of spiced chili beans (liquid included)
- 1 (15 ounce) can of kidney beans (retain the liquid)
- 1 (15 ounce) can of whole kernel corn (retain the liquid)
- 1 (8 ounce) can of tomato sauce
- 2 cups of water
- 2 (14 1/2 ounce) cans of peeled and diced tomatoes
- 1 (4 ounce) can of diced green chile peppers
- 1 (1 1/4 ounce) package of your favorite taco seasoning mix
Directions for Crockpot Taco Soup
- Begin by assembling all your ingredients to ensure a smooth preparation process.
- In a medium-sized skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat and set aside.
- Into your crockpot, combine the browned beef, diced onion, chili beans, kidney beans, corn, tomato sauce, water, diced tomatoes, green chile peppers, and taco seasoning mix.
- Stir the mixture thoroughly to blend the ingredients.
- Set your crockpot to a Low setting and let it cook for approximately 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
What pairs well with taco soup?
The rich and smoky essence of taco soup harmonizes wonderfully with side dishes like buttermilk cornbread or a refreshing cucumber salad. Adding a bowl of cheesy Spanish rice or some crushed tortilla chips can also elevate the meal. For garnishing, sour cream, avocado, and cilantro offer a zesty twist.
How can I store leftover taco soup?
You can keep the leftover taco soup in an airtight container or a heavy-duty bag. Store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it in a microwave or simmer it on the stovetop.
Is taco soup freezer-friendly?
Yes, absolutely! If you have leftover taco soup, you can freeze it for up to two to three months. For optimal results, portion the soup into single servings in a heavy-duty plastic bag or an airtight container. This way, you can easily grab, thaw, and reheat for a quick meal.
Can I spice up my taco soup?
Definitely! If you’re a fan of spicy foods, feel free to add more taco seasoning or throw in some freshly chopped jalapeno peppers for that extra kick. Customize the heat level to your liking!
What kind of meat can I use for this soup?
While this recipe uses ground beef, you can also opt for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer. Just ensure that the meat is thoroughly cooked before adding it to the crockpot.
How long to cook taco soup in a crock pot?
For the flavors to fully develop and ingredients to meld, it’s recommended to cook the taco soup on a Low setting in the crockpot for about 8 hours.
Can I prepare taco soup on the stovetop?
Yes, while the crockpot method is convenient for a “set it and forget it” approach, you can also prepare this soup on the stovetop. Simply follow the same directions but simmer the soup in a large pot for about 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Can I use homemade taco seasoning?
Of course! Homemade taco seasoning can offer a fresher, more authentic taste. If you have a tried-and-true blend of spices, feel free to use it in this recipe. Adjust the quantity based on your preference.
What can I use as a substitute for green chile peppers?
If you can’t find green chile peppers, you can use roasted bell peppers, poblano peppers, or even a dash of green hot sauce. Adjust based on your desired heat level.
Is this soup kid-friendly?
Yes, the crockpot taco soup is a hit among kids, especially when served with tortilla chips. If your child is sensitive to spices, you might want to reduce the amount of chili or taco seasoning. You can always add more spices to individual bowls for the adults!
Crockpot Taco Soup
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion chopped
- 1 16 ounce can chili beans, with liquid
- 1 15 ounce can kidney beans with liquid
- 1 15 ounce can whole kernel corn, with liquid
- 1 8 ounce can tomato sauce
- 2 cups water
- 2 14 1/2 ounce cans peeled and diced tomatoes
- 1 4 ounce can diced green chile peppers
- 1 1 1/4 ounce package taco seasoning mix
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients.
- In a medium skillet, cook the ground beef until browned over medium heat. Drain, and set aside.
- Place the ground beef, onion, chili beans, kidney beans, corn, tomato sauce, water, diced tomatoes, green chile peppers and taco seasoning mix in a slow cooker.
- Mix to blend, and cook on Low setting for 8 hours.
