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Easy Crockpot Taco Soup is a hearty, flavorful slow cooker recipe made with ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, salsa, and taco seasoning for a simple dump-and-go dinner.
Easy Crockpot Taco Soup
As the crisp fall air settles in and the days get shorter, my trusty crockpot becomes an essential tool in my kitchen.
There’s something incredibly comforting about coming home to a warm, hearty meal ready to serve, especially when life gets hectic with work and taking care of the kids.
One of my favorite go-to recipes during these busy months is Crockpot Taco Soup.
It’s packed with flavor, simple to prepare, and allows me to multitask while it simmers away all day.
Equipment You’ll Need
To prepare this Crockpot Taco Soup, you’ll need:
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Taco Soup Recipe
This crockpot taco soup is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again, especially on busy weeknights or chilly days when you want something warm and filling without a lot of effort.
Everything comes together using simple pantry staples, and the slow cooker does most of the work for you.
Once the ground beef and onion are sautéed, the rest is truly a dump-and-go situation.
Another reason readers love this recipe is how customizable it is. You can easily adjust the spice level, swap proteins, or add extra veggies depending on what you have on hand.
It’s naturally hearty thanks to the beans, corn, and beef, making it a satisfying one-bowl meal that doesn’t require much on the side, though it pairs beautifully with tortilla chips or cornbread.
This recipe is also ideal for meal prep and leftovers. The flavors continue to deepen as it sits, meaning it often tastes even better the next day.
Whether you’re feeding a family, stocking your freezer, or looking for a crowd-pleasing crockpot soup for game day, this taco soup checks all the boxes: easy, flavorful, budget-friendly, and comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef – Adds hearty protein and rich flavor to make this soup filling and satisfying.
- 1/2 onion, diced and sautéed with the hamburger – Brings natural sweetness and depth, helping build a flavorful base.
- 2 cups chicken or beef stock – Creates a savory, comforting broth that ties all the flavors together.
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed – Adds creaminess, fiber, and extra protein.
- 1 can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed – Gives the soup a hearty texture and classic taco-style flavor.
- 1 can kernel corn, drained – Adds a touch of sweetness and pop of texture in every bite.
- 1 can diced tomatoes – Provides acidity and juiciness for a balanced, cozy soup base.
- 2/3 cup salsa – Boosts flavor with tomatoes, peppers, and spices without extra work.
- 3 tablespoons taco seasoning (adjust to taste) – Delivers that bold, savory taco flavor everyone loves.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground hamburger with the diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain excess grease.
Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot: Transfer the cooked hamburger and onion mixture to your crockpot. Add chicken or beef stock, black beans, red kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with juices), salsa, and taco seasoning. Stir well to combine.
Cooking Time: Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes!
Serve: Once done, ladle the taco soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, or fresh cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors.
How do I Store my Crockpot Taco Soup?
If you’re looking to meal prep, Crockpot Taco Soup is perfect for that too! Here’s how to store it:
Refrigerator: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
Freezer: This soup also freezes beautifully. Once cooled, ladle it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (lay flat for easier storage).
It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Tips for Making Taco Soup in the Crockpot
Brown the Meat First: Sautéing the ground hamburger with onion adds depth of flavor to the soup.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the taco seasoning according to your preference. You can also add a pinch of salt and pepper if needed.
Add Toppings: Before serving, consider setting up a taco soup topping bar with options like shredded cheese, diced avocado, jalapeños, or tortilla strips. It makes mealtime interactive and fun!
Additional Soup Recipes You’ll Enjoy!
Why should I use a Crockpot for this Taco Soup Recipe?
Crockpots are incredibly convenient for busy families.
You can prepare everything in the morning (or even the night before), set it to cook, and go about your day.
Whether you’re at work, running errands, or attending to your little ones, the crockpot does all the work for you, filling your home with irresistible aromas.
What sides should I serve with Taco Soup?
To complement the rich flavors of the taco soup, here are three delicious side dishes you can consider:
Cornbread: A classic choice that pairs perfectly with soups. The slight sweetness of cornbread balances the savory soup flavors.
Mexican Rice: Fluffy and seasoned rice makes a great side dish. You can cook it separately or even find pre-packaged options that heat up quickly.
Tortilla Chips and Guacamole: Serve a bowl of crispy tortilla chips with homemade guacamole or store-bought salsa for dipping. It adds a nice crunch and freshness to the meal.
Crockpot Taco Soup has become a staple in my household during the fall and winter months, not just for its ease of preparation but also for its crowd-pleasing taste.
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FAQ for Crockpot Taco Soup
Can I make crockpot taco soup without browning the ground beef?
Technically yes, but browning the ground beef with the diced onion first is highly recommended. Sautéing adds depth of flavor and prevents the soup from becoming greasy. It also allows the onion to soften and release its sweetness, which balances the spices in the taco seasoning.
How long does taco soup cook in the crockpot?
Crockpot taco soup can be cooked on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours. The longer cook time allows the flavors to really meld together, but it’s flexible enough to work with your schedule.
Can I use chicken instead of ground beef?
Absolutely. Shredded chicken breasts or thighs work well in this recipe. Simply add raw chicken directly to the crockpot with the other ingredients and shred it during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Ground turkey is another great lean alternative.
Is crockpot taco soup spicy?
This soup is mildly spiced as written, but the heat level depends largely on the salsa and taco seasoning you use. For a spicier soup, add hot salsa, a pinch of cayenne, or diced jalapeños. To keep it mild for kids, choose a mild salsa and start with less seasoning.
Can I make this taco soup thicker?
Yes! If you prefer a thicker taco soup, you can reduce the amount of stock slightly or let the soup cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes. Another option is to mash some of the beans directly in the crockpot to naturally thicken the broth.
What toppings go best with taco soup?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced avocado, green onions, crushed tortilla chips, or fresh cilantro. These toppings add texture and extra flavor while making the soup feel even more like a taco-inspired meal.
Can I freeze crockpot taco soup?
Yes, this soup freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then store in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
How long does taco soup last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, crockpot taco soup will keep for 4–5 days in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for lunches throughout the week and reheats very well.
It’s a comforting meal that brings everyone together at the table, ready to warm up after a chilly day.
Give it a try, and see how this simple recipe can transform your weeknight dinners into something special. Enjoy the season and the delicious meals it brings!
Crockpot Taco Soup
Equipment
- 1 Crockpot
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground hamburger
- 1/2 onion diced and sautéed with the hamburger
- 2 cups chicken or beef stock
- 1 can black beans
- 1 can red kidney beans
- 1 can kernel corn drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes 15 oz.
- 2/3 cup salsa
- 3 tablespoons taco seasoning adjust to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground hamburger with the diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain excess grease.
- Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot: Transfer the cooked hamburger and onion mixture to your crockpot. Add chicken or beef stock, black beans, red kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with juices), salsa, and taco seasoning. Stir well to combine.
- Cooking Time: Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes!
- Serve: Once done, ladle the taco soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, or fresh cilantro. Serve hot.
Nutrition
Tried this recipe for yourself? Leave a comment and photos below!
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Nutrition Disclaimer: Our Family Cooks is not a dietitian or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
