Slow Cooker Taco Soup is the perfect blend of hearty and comforting flavors, packed with taco-seasoned beef, beans, tomatoes, and just the right touch of spices. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering smells and makes you feel cozy even on the chilliest days.
I love how simple it is to throw everything into the slow cooker in the morning and come back to a warm, delicious dinner waiting for me. This soup is like a little fiesta in a bowl, and I always keep tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and sour cream nearby for topping—it just makes the whole experience even better.
Whenever I make this Slow Cooker Taco Soup, it reminds me of laid-back family dinners where everyone gathers around the table to share stories and laughter. It’s one of those meals that’s easy to customize too, so you can add extra veggies or spice it up just how you like. I definitely keep this recipe on repeat during busy weeks!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This gives the soup its hearty base. For a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken. Vegetarian? Use cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles instead.
Beans: Black beans work perfectly, but kidney or pinto beans are great alternatives and add a bit of variety in taste and texture.
Diced tomatoes & Rotel: These add acidity and spice. If you prefer less heat, swap Rotel for plain diced tomatoes or mild salsa.
Taco seasoning: Store-bought is quick, but homemade blends let you control salt and spice levels. It’s easy to mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika for a simple homemade version.
Broth: Beef broth boosts flavor, but chicken or vegetable broth works well. Water is fine too, just add a pinch more seasoning.
How Do I Make Sure the Ground Beef Stays Tender and Flavorful in the Slow Cooker?
Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker is key. It locks in flavor and improves texture.
- Use medium heat for a steady, even cook.
- Break the meat into small pieces as it cooks to ensure it’s fully browned and crumbly.
- Drain any fat to avoid greasy soup but don’t rinse the meat; the browned bits add flavor.
- Add it to the slow cooker right after, mixing with other ingredients to soak up all those spices.
Skipping this step? The beef can end up gray and chewy, so take the extra 10 minutes—it makes a big difference!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker – the star of this recipe; it gently cooks everything together while you go about your day.
- Large skillet – for browning the ground beef evenly and draining fat before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – to break up the meat and stir ingredients without scratching your pans.
- Can opener – for opening beans, tomatoes, and corn cans quickly and safely.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the taco seasoning and broth just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to lighten the dish while keeping it tasty.
- Mix in chopped bell peppers or zucchini to boost the veggie content and add color.
- Add a can of mild green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat when you want it spicier.
- Stir in a handful of cooked quinoa or rice near the end to make the soup more filling.
If you love hearty and creamy options, try our comforting Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup for a rich twist. Another great option is the classic Creamy Baked Potato Soup, which pairs perfectly with crusty bread. For a more filling meal, don’t miss our flavorful Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup that brings all the taste of lasagna in a cozy bowl.
How to Make Slow Cooker Taco Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 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, undrained
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or about 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (for garnish)
- 1 avocado, diced (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes roughly 10-15 minutes for preparation and browning the beef. Then, allow the slow cooker to do its magic—6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Once cooked, it’s ready to serve with your favorite toppings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned. Use a spoon to break it up so it cooks evenly. Drain off any extra fat, then transfer the beef into your slow cooker.
2. Add the Rest of the Ingredients:
Into the slow cooker, add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chopped onion, taco seasoning, and beef broth. Stir everything well so the flavors blend together.
3. Cook the Soup:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors develop.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheese, diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve with tortilla chips if you like.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Soup?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before browning. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave for quicker thawing. This ensures even cooking and prevents excess moisture in the soup.
Can I Make Slow Cooker Taco Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything in the slow cooker and refrigerate the cooked soup for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Are Some Good Toppings for Taco Soup?
Classic toppings include shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, fresh cilantro, and tortilla chips. You can also add sliced jalapeños, chopped green onions, or a squeeze of lime for extra zest.
Looking for more cozy comfort food recipes? You might enjoy our timeless Old-Fashioned Potato Soup or the crowd-pleasing Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup.