Taco Soup, with its origins in Southwestern cuisine, is a delightful blend of chili and taco, combining spices and flavors in a savory broth. This dish is perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave comfort in a bowl. It’s an excellent choice for busy families, offering ease of preparation and versatility that appeals to various tastes, including those of picky eaters. Imagine the joy of unwinding with a spicy, self-cooked bowl of this soup at the end of a busy day!
Serving Suggestions:
Enhance your Slow Cooker Taco Soup experience with crunchy tortilla chips, a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and fresh cilantro. Elevate your meal with a side of fluffy Spanish rice, a crisp green salad, or simply enjoy with a slice of warm cornbread drizzled with honey. This dish is cozy enough for a family dinner yet impressive enough for entertaining guests.
Slow Cooker Taco Soup Recipe
Serves: 6-8
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 oz) can corn, undrained
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juice
1 (4 oz) can green chilies
2 cups beef or chicken broth
1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade blend)
1 packet ranch dressing mix (optional but adds a unique flavor)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Brown the ground meat with onion and garlic in a skillet over medium heat, then drain excess fat.
Transfer to the slow cooker.
Add corn, beans, tomatoes, green chilies, and seasoning packets.
Pour in broth and stir well.
Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.
Variations & Tips:
For a vegetarian option, omit meat and add extra beans or lentils.
Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for more heat.
Freeze extra for a convenient future meal.
Involve kids in choosing and adding their favorite toppings.
Fresh herbs can be added for enhanced flavor.
This Slow Cooker Taco Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a bowl of slow-cooked warmth and comfort, sure to delight everyone at your table. Enjoy the rich flavors and the ease of this heartwarming dish!