Looking for an easy, delicious dinner idea? Try this Crockpot Taco Soup! Made with ground beef, beans, corn, and tomatoes, it’s packed with flavor and perfect for busy weeknights. Just add taco seasoning and ranch mix for a hearty, comforting meal. Simply set it in your slow cooker and let it simmer to perfection. Ideal for meal prep, family dinners, and cozy nights in.
Ingredients
What You’ll Need:
- 1 pound (lb) ground beef, shredded chicken, or your preferred meat
- 1 (16-ounce) can pinto beans
- 1 (16-ounce) can white beans or kidney beans
- 1 (11-ounce) can niblet corn
- 1 (11-ounce) can tomatoes and chiles
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles
- 1 1/4 envelopes taco seasoning mix
- 1 envelope Hidden Valley Ranch Salad Dressing and Seasoning Mix
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meat
Start by browning your choice of meat in a skillet over medium heat. If you’re using ground beef, make sure it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. For shredded chicken or other meats, ensure they are cooked through and easy to shred. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid and set the meat aside.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
Transfer the cooked meat into your slow cooker. Next, add the pinto beans, white beans or kidney beans, niblet corn, tomatoes and chiles, diced tomatoes, and diced green chiles. It’s important not to drain the cans as the liquid adds to the flavor and consistency of the soup.
3. Add Seasonings
Sprinkle the taco seasoning mix and the Hidden Valley Ranch Salad Dressing and Seasoning Mix over the ingredients in the crockpot. These seasonings bring a burst of flavor that’s both savory and slightly tangy, perfect for a hearty soup.
4. Mix and Cook
Stir all the ingredients together to ensure they are well combined. Set your crockpot to cook on high for 2 hours or on low for 4 to 6 hours. The longer cooking time on low allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and flavorful soup.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once the cooking time is complete, give the soup a good stir. Serve it hot with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, chopped green onions, or a squeeze of lime juice. This adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the warm, comforting soup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use any meat you prefer, including ground turkey, pork, or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian option.
2. How long can I store the leftovers?
Leftover taco soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
3. Can I make this soup on the stovetop?
Yes, you can cook this soup on the stovetop. Follow the same steps, but simmer the soup on low heat for about 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
4. What are some good toppings for taco soup?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, tortilla chips, and lime wedges.
5. Is this soup gluten-free?
This soup can be gluten-free if you ensure that the taco seasoning and ranch dressing mix you use are certified gluten-free.
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