This slow cooker hearty taco soup is the ultimate comfort meal packed with bold flavors, tender beans, juicy beef, and a savory broth that tastes like a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or family gatherings, this recipe is both budget-friendly and easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you’ll have a flavorful soup that’s hearty, filling, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.

The Origin of Taco Soup

Taco soup is an American creation inspired by the beloved Mexican taco, but transformed into a warming soup. Its popularity began in the Southwest, where cooks combined pantry staples like beans, corn, tomatoes, and ground beef with taco seasoning for a quick, flavorful dish. Unlike traditional Mexican soups, this version focuses on convenience, often prepared in one pot or a slow cooker. Over time, it’s become a go-to recipe for families looking for a hearty, Tex-Mex inspired meal without the hassle of complex cooking.

Why These Ingredients Work So Well

Each ingredient in this taco soup adds a layer of flavor and texture. The ground beef provides rich, savory depth while the chili and kidney beans add creaminess and fiber, making the soup filling. Corn kernels bring a touch of natural sweetness that balances the spices, while green chiles and taco seasoning deliver just the right kick of heat. The tomato base with sauce and diced tomatoes ties everything together, creating a thick, flavorful broth. When slow-cooked for hours, these ingredients meld beautifully, producing a dish that’s comforting and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

This taco soup is perfect for cozy dinners, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd. It’s versatile—top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, tortilla chips, or fresh cilantro for endless variations. It’s also incredibly easy to make: simply toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work. The result is a protein-packed, flavorful dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, preparing a weeknight dinner, or looking for a freezer-friendly recipe, this slow cooker taco soup will not disappoint.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 (16 oz) can chili beans (with liquid)
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans (with liquid)
• 1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn (with liquid)
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 2 cups water
• 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes (peeled and diced)
• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chile peppers
• 1 (1.25 oz) package taco seasoning mix

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat and set aside.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Transfer the beef to a slow cooker. Add onion, chili beans, kidney beans, corn, tomato sauce, water, diced tomatoes, green chiles, and taco seasoning mix.

Step 3: Mix and Cook

Stir everything together until well combined. Cover and cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours, until flavors have fully developed.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle into bowls and serve with shredded cheese, sour cream, tortilla chips, or fresh cilantro on top.

Recipe Timing & Nutrition

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Calories per Serving: ~310 kcal

Taco Soup

Can I freeze taco soup?

Yes! Taco soup freezes beautifully. Let the soup cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags. It lasts up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or in a slow cooker.

Can I make taco soup without beef?

Absolutely. You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even leave out the meat entirely for a vegetarian version. If making vegetarian taco soup, consider adding black beans, extra corn, or quinoa for protein and texture.

How do I make taco soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the water slightly or add extra beans and corn. You can also mash some of the beans before serving to naturally thicken the broth.

What toppings go best with taco soup?

Popular toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, jalapeños, tortilla chips, and fresh cilantro. Each topping adds extra flavor and texture, letting you customize your bowl.