Go Back

Taco Soup Crock Pot - A Cozy, Flavor-Packed Weeknight Dinner

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef, turkey, or plant-based crumbles
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2–3 tablespoons homemade)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional for extra depth)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 ounces) pinto or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained (or 1 1/2 cups frozen corn)
  • 1 can (10–14 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chiles (like Rotel)
  • 1 can (15 ounces) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 3–4 cups low-sodium chicken or beef broth (or vegetable broth)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1/2 lime (optional, for brightness)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack
  • Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
  • Crushed tortilla chips or strips
  • Avocado or guacamole
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Green onions

Method
 

  1. Brown the meat (optional but recommended): In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey with the diced onion until the meat is no longer pink. Drain excess fat. Stir in the garlic and cook 1 minute. This step adds flavor and keeps the soup from getting greasy.
  2. Add to the crock pot: Transfer the cooked meat and onions to the slow cooker. Add taco seasoning, cumin, chili powder, beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chiles, fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato sauce, and 3 cups of broth.
  3. Stir and set: Mix well. Cover and cook on Low for 6–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours. If it looks too thick, add the remaining 1 cup of broth during the last hour.
  4. Finish and season: Stir in lime juice and cilantro if using. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. If you want more heat, add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce.
  5. Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with cheese, sour cream, tortilla chips, and any other favorite toppings. Serve with warm cornbread or a simple green salad on the side.