Slow Cooker Taco Soup Recipe

Ground beef: Adds a rich, meaty flavor and protein to the soup.

Onion: Provides a base of sweetness and depth to the soup.

Black beans: Adds texture and additional protein, making the soup more filling.

Corn: Contributes a touch of sweetness and crunch to the soup.

Diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and a fresh tomato flavor to the soup.

Taco seasoning: A blend of spices that gives the soup its signature taco flavor.

Tomato sauce: Adds a rich tomato base to the soup.

Beef broth: Provides a savory liquid base that enhances the overall flavor of the soup.

To enhance the flavor of your ground beef and onion mixture, consider adding a pinch of salt and pepper while browning. This will help to season the meat more evenly and bring out the natural sweetness of the onion. Additionally, deglaze the skillet with a splash of beef broth before transferring the mixture to the slow cooker. This will lift any caramelized bits from the bottom of the pan, adding extra depth to your taco soup.

• ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and provides a similar texture and flavor profile.

• onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, slightly sweeter taste compared to onions, making them a good alternative.

• black beans - Substitute with pinto beans: Pinto beans have a similar texture and can absorb flavors well, making them a suitable replacement.

• corn - Substitute with frozen corn: Frozen corn can be used in place of canned corn and often has a fresher taste.

• diced tomatoes - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes provide a similar tomato flavor and can add a slightly thicker consistency to the soup.

• taco seasoning - Substitute with homemade taco seasoning: A mix of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano can replicate the flavor of store-bought taco seasoning.

• tomato sauce - Substitute with tomato paste and water: Mixing tomato paste with water can create a similar consistency and flavor to tomato sauce.

• beef broth - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can be used if beef broth is unavailable, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.

• Allow the taco soup to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to a watery texture.
• Transfer the cooled soup to airtight containers. For individual servings, use smaller containers or freezer-safe bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents. This ensures you know what it is and when it was made.
• Store the containers in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the soup within 3-4 days. Ensure the refrigerator is set to 40°F (4°C) or below.
• For longer storage, place the containers in the freezer. The taco soup can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its flavor and texture.
• When ready to eat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. This gradual thawing helps maintain the quality of the soup.
• Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave, stirring every 1-2 minutes to ensure even heating.
• If the soup appears too thick after reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to reach the desired consistency.
• Garnish with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips just before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.

• For a quick and easy method, use the microwave. Place a portion of the taco soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to prevent splatters. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Check the temperature and heat for an additional 1-2 minutes if needed.

• If you prefer a stovetop method, pour the leftover soup into a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the soup starts to simmer, reduce the heat to low and let it warm through for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

• For those who love the convenience of a slow cooker, you can reheat the taco soup in the slow cooker as well. Transfer the soup back into the slow cooker and set it on low. Allow it to heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature.

• If you have an instant pot, you can use the sauté function to reheat the soup. Pour the leftover taco soup into the pot, select the sauté setting, and stir occasionally. Once the soup starts to bubble, switch to the keep warm setting until ready to serve.

• For a more traditional approach, you can reheat the taco soup in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the soup to an oven-safe dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Skillet: Used to cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is browned.

• Slow cooker: Used to combine and cook all the ingredients slowly over several hours.

• Spatula: Used to stir and break up the ground beef while cooking in the skillet.

• Cutting board: Used as a surface to dice the onion.

• Knife: Used to dice the onion.

• Can opener: Used to open the cans of black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the beef broth.

• Mixing spoon: Used to stir the ingredients together in the slow cooker.

• Serving ladle: Used to serve the hot taco soup into bowls.

• Bowls: Used to serve the taco soup.

• Cheese grater: Used to grate cheese for topping the soup.

• Spoon: Used to add toppings like sour cream to the soup.

Pre-cook the beef: Brown the ground beef and diced onion the night before and store them in the fridge. This way, you can quickly transfer them to the slow cooker in the morning.

Use canned ingredients: Opt for canned black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes to save time on prep work. They are already cooked and ready to go.

Batch prep: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later. Just thaw and reheat.

Taco seasoning: Use a pre-made taco seasoning packet instead of mixing your own spices.