5 Ingredient Taco Soup: Easy Crock-Pot Mexican Classic

Looking for a quick dinner that’s full of flavor? The 5 ingredient taco soup is your answer. It’s made in a Crock-Pot, turning simple ingredients into a delicious Mexican soup ready when you need it.

No need for complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients. This soup mixes ground beef, canned tomatoes, beans, and spices in a slow cooker. Let the Crock-Pot work its magic while you relax.

This soup brings the bold taste of tacos to your table. It’s great for meal prep or family dinners, and it’s easy on your wallet. Learn how to make this comfort food at home in just under 10 minutes of prep.

Why This 5 Ingredient Taco Soup Will Become Your New Favorite

This original taco soup recipe has been a favorite in many U.S. kitchens for years. It’s not just a meal; it’s a solution for busy nights, tight budgets, and picky eaters. Here’s why it should be in your slow cooker.

The Perfect Weeknight Time-Saver

Imagine coming home to a kitchen filled with the smell of spices. Dinner is ready, and you didn’t lift a finger. The secret? Your slow cooker. Prep is quick—just 10 minutes of chopping and dumping ingredients. Then, you can relax while the crock-pot cooks a delicious meal for you.

Budget-Friendly Comfort Food

This original recipe is both tasty and affordable. It uses common ingredients like ground beef, canned tomatoes, and beans. A batch feeds 6-8 people for under $5 each. You get rich flavors without the high cost of restaurants.

A Crowd-Pleasing Mexican Classic

This soup is loved by all, from kids to grandparents. Its mix of savory, spicy, and tangy flavors suits everyone. Add cheese, salsa, or cilantro to make it your own. It’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks, with no leftovers.

The Essential Ingredients for Authentic Taco Soup

Mastering the 5 ingredient taco soup starts with choosing the right parts. Each item is crucial for flavor and texture. Here’s what you need:

1. Ground beef (1 lb): Browned to perfection, this adds protein and richness. Look for 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for juiciness.
2. Canned tomatoes with green chilies (14.5 oz): Hunt’s Diced Tomatoes with Roasted Green Chilies create a tangy base that balances spice.
3. Chili-seasoned beans (15 oz): Bush’s Pinto Beans in mild chili seasoning add fiber and hearty texture without extra prep.
4. Taco seasoning mix (2 tbsp): Old El Paso Original Taco Seasoning delivers classic cumin, chili powder, and paprika for authentic heat.
5. Beef broth (1 cup): Swanson Low-Sodium Broth deepens flavors without excess salt.

These ingredients work together to mirror traditional Mexican flavors. The tomatoes’ acidity cuts through the beef’s richness, while the beans and spices create a savory backbone. Opt for no-salt-added options to control sodium levels. This combination ensures a dish that’s both comforting and nutritionally balanced—protein, fiber, and zero fillers. The simplicity of the 5 ingredient taco soup proves big taste doesn’t require a long grocery list.

How to Prepare Your Crock-Pot Taco Soup

Turn your kitchen into a place where you can relax. Follow these easy steps to make your crock-pot taco soup. Your slow cooker will do all the work, making each part blend perfectly.

Browning Your Ground Beef

Start by cooking the beef in a skillet until it’s brown and crumbly. Make sure to drain the extra fat to keep the soup from being too greasy. Add taco seasoning to the meat while it’s still warm. This helps the flavors mix well. Then, put the meat in the slow cooker.

Combining Ingredients in Your Slow Cooker

Put the ingredients in the slow cooker in a way that helps them cook evenly. Start with the seasoned beef, then add canned tomatoes, beans, and broth. Stir gently to mix everything without overdoing it. This way, the spices will cover all the ingredients well. Don’t fill the cooker too much, as it needs room to simmer.

Cooking Times and Temperature Settings

Choose high heat for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours. The longer it cooks, the softer the beans will be. Before serving, taste the soup and add salt or lime juice if it needs more flavor.

1. High heat: 3 hours total after cooking starts
2. Low heat: 7-8 hours for full flavor infusion
3. Add toppings like cheese or avocado post-cook for freshness

If the soup gets too thick, add a bit more broth. For a richer taste, let it simmer uncovered for 30 minutes before serving.

Customizing Your Mexican Taco Chili Recipe

Want to change up the recipe? This mexican taco chili recipe can be made your way. Try using ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter taste. Add diced zucchini or black beans for extra texture in the last hour.

• Spice it up: Add a diced jalapeño or dash of cayenne for heat. Prefer mild? Skip the chili powder.
• Vegetarian twist: Use textured soy protein or lentils as a meat substitute. Add an extra can of corn for creaminess.
• Salt-free option: Use low-sodium broth and skip the canned beans’ salt. Taste and adjust before serving.

Top your bowl with crushed tortilla chips, pickled onions, or a squeeze of lime. Greek yogurt is a tangy sour cream alternative. Shred leftover tortillas for extra crunch. Find your perfect mix!

Enjoy with warm cornbread or rice. Serve in a tortilla for a chili-stuffed taco. Always taste and adjust as you go. This keeps the mexican taco chili recipe exciting every time.

Conclusion: Serving and Storing Your Homemade Taco Soup

Serve your slow cooker ground beef taco soup in deep bowls. This lets toppings like shredded cheese and diced avocado stand out. A drizzle of salsa adds a nice touch. Pair it with warm cornbread, crisp tortilla chips, or a light green salad for a balanced meal.

Leftover ground beef taco soup stays fresh for up to four days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze it in freezer-safe bags. Label them with dates. Frozen soup lasts two to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Letting the soup rest overnight makes its flavors even better. This recipe is perfect for busy days. It’s easy to make and clean up, and everyone loves it. With just five ingredients, you can enjoy delicious Mexican flavors anytime.

FAQ

What are the main ingredients in the 5 ingredient taco soup?

The main ingredients are ground beef, taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chiles, black beans, and corn. These mix together to make a tasty soup base.

Can I make this taco soup in a Crock-Pot?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for the Crock-Pot. Brown the ground beef first, then add it to the slow cooker with the other ingredients. Let it cook on low for hours.

How can I customize my taco soup recipe?

You can add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini, or use chicken or turkey instead of beef. Adjust the spice with jalapeños or hot sauce. Try different toppings like cheese, sour cream, and cilantro.

How long does it take to cook the taco soup in a Crock-Pot?

On low, it takes 6 to 8 hours. On high, it’s 3 to 4 hours. Cooking time can vary with different Crock-Pot models.

What should I serve with my taco soup?

Serve it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or quesadillas. A green salad on the side is also great. These sides make the meal more satisfying.

How do I store leftovers of the taco soup?

Cool it down, then put it in an airtight container. It keeps in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I make this taco soup vegetarian?

Yes! Use lentils or tofu instead of beef. Make sure your taco seasoning is vegetarian-friendly too.

Is it necessary to brown the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker?

Browning the beef is optional but improves flavor and texture. It also helps remove excess fat for a healthier soup.

What is the best way to reheat leftover taco soup?

Reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring often. You can also microwave it in short bursts to avoid overcooking.