Craving a hearty taco soup that’s packed with flavor and comfort? This crockpot taco soup is a no-fuss meal where your slow cooker does all the work, making it one of the easiest soup recipes to try at home. Perfect for topping with cheese, sour cream, or avocado, this easy crockpot taco soup recipe is a cozy dish you’ll want on repeat.
On a busy afternoon, I decided to try my taco soup in a crockpot because I wanted something easy but filling. As the hours passed, the scent of it filled the house and made everyone hungry before it was even ready. When it was finally time to eat, I ladled the soup into bowls and let each person pick their own toppings. It turned into a fun, build-your-own dinner that brought a little extra joy to the table.
Beef and Chicken Taco Soup for Dinner
You can make taco soup with either beef or chicken, depending on what you have on hand. Beef gives the soup a rich, deep flavor, while chicken keeps it light and tender. Both versions taste amazing with the same taco spices.
Cooking with a Slow Cooker or Crockpot
Using a slow cooker or crockpot makes cooking so simple and stress-free. Just toss in the ingredients, set the timer, and let it do all the work. It’s especially helpful for busy days when you don’t want to stand over the stove.
Add Toppings to the Soup
The difference between taco soup and veggie soup or mushroom soup is that it is loaded up with toppings. Fresh cilantro and lime juice give it a bright pop of flavor. Everyone can make their own bowl just the way they like it.
How To Make Easy Crockpot Taco Soup Recipe
This easy crockpot taco soup recipe is warm, hearty, and full of flavor with almost no effort. Just toss everything in the slow cooker, let it simmer, and enjoy a cozy bowl that’s perfect for busy days.
Kitchen Gadgets:
- Slow Cooker: Gently simmers the soup all day, letting the flavors meld perfectly.
- Bowl: Just right for serving up a hearty portion of taco soup.
- Chopping Board: A sturdy surface for prepping veggies and meats with ease.
- Knife: Essential for slicing cabbage, tomatoes, and all your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
- Cabbage: Adds bulk and texture while keeping the soup light.
- Ground Beef: Brings hearty flavor and makes the soup filling.
- Chicken Broth: Serves as the base liquid for cooking everything together.
- Paprika: Adds mild smoky flavor to the soup.
- Cumin: Gives the soup a warm, earthy taste.
- Chicken Breast: Adds lean protein and makes the soup more satisfying.
- Tomatoes: Provide freshness and a bit of acidity to balance flavors.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a simple, savory kick without needing fresh garlic.
- Onion Powder: Brings mild onion flavor that blends smoothly into the soup.
- Salt (or to taste): Improves and balances all the flavors.
- Black Pepper (or to taste): Adds gentle spice and depth.
Optional Toppings:
- Lime Wedges: Squeeze over the soup for a bright, fresh taste.
- Cilantro: Adds a burst of fresh, herby flavor.
- Avocado: Brings creamy texture and healthy fats.
- Shredded Cheese: Melts on top for extra flavor and richness.
- Sour Cream: Adds cool creaminess to balance the spices.
*Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.
FULL INSTRUCTIONS WITH STEPS FOR SLOW COOKER CREAMY BEEF TACO SOUP
First Step: Get Set with Ingredients
Lay out everything you’ll need: chicken stock, chicken breasts, diced tomatoes, shredded cabbage, ground beef, and spices like cumin, paprika, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Don’t forget optional toppings such as avocado, sour cream, cheese, cilantro, or lime. Having it all prepped upfront makes the cooking smooth and stress-free.
Second Step: Shape the Beef Bites
Roll the ground beef into small bite-sized meatballs, about an inch wide. A light sprinkle of salt and pepper will boost their flavor before cooking. These will simmer right in the soup, giving it extra richness and heartiness.
Third Step: Slice the Cabbage
Take half a head of cabbage and cut it into thin shreds so it cooks down easily. The cabbage adds bulk without being heavy, making the soup more satisfying. Once sliced, set it aside until it’s ready to go in the slow cooker.
Fourth Step: Layer in the Slow Cooker
Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of the pot. Add the seasoned meatballs, shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, and all the spices on top. Finally, pour in the chicken stock so everything is covered and ready to cook.
Fifth Step: Let It Simmer Slow
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours. When done, the chicken should be fork-tender and easy to shred right in the pot. Serve warm and let everyone personalize their bowls with toppings like avocado, cheese, or fresh lime juice.
TRICKS AND TIPS:
- Brown the meat first: Browning your beef or chicken before adding it to the crockpot gives the soup a richer flavor. It also keeps the meat from tasting bland or mushy.
- Use low-sodium broth: Since taco seasoning already has plenty of salt, low-sodium broth helps balance the flavors. This way, you can control the seasoning better.
- Add beans last if you like them firm: Cooking beans too long in the slow cooker can make them extra soft. Stir them in during the last hour to keep their texture.
- Don’t forget the toppings: Fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, cheese, or lime juice can completely change the soup. They add brightness and make each bowl taste unique.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What to Serve With Crockpot Creamy Taco Soup?
This soup pairs well with a side of warm protein bread or tortilla for dipping. A fresh cucumber and onion salad or roasted veggies also balances the creamy flavors. If you want something extra hearty, serve it with a side of rice.
How Do I Store Leftover Taco After Making Taco Soup?
Let the soup cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3–4 days to keep it fresh. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Yes, you can freeze taco soup for later. Allow it to cool, then place it in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little room for expansion. It will keep well for up to 2–3 months, and you can thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
More Clean Eating Recipes
If you enjoy cooking clean, a gluten free BBQ sauce recipe is a great place to start since it keeps flavors bold without added junk. For a quick sweet treat, chocolate nut clusters are easy to make and perfect for snacking.
You can also try making the best five spice powder substitute at home to add a warm and rich flavor to your dishes. These recipes are simple, tasty, and made with real ingredients you can trust.
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Full Recipe With a Printable Version
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Crockpot Taco Soup
Equipment
Ingredients
- ½ Piece Cabbage head, shredded
- 1 Pound Ground Beef
- 8 Cup Chicken Broth
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- 1 Pound Chicken Breast
- 2 Pieces Tomatoes 14 oz cans diced, drained
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt or to taste
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper or to taste
- Lime Wedges
- Chopped Cilantro
- Avocado
- Shredded Cheese
- Sour Cream
Instructions
- Gather chicken stock, chicken breasts, diced tomatoes, shredded cabbage, ground beef, spices, and optional toppings so everything is ready before you start.
- Roll the ground beef into small 1-inch meatballs and lightly season with salt and pepper.
- Thinly shred the cabbage so it cooks down easily; set aside.
- Place chicken breasts in the bottom, add meatballs, cabbage, tomatoes, spices, and pour in chicken stock to cover.
- Cook on low 7–8 hours or high 4–5 hours, then shred the chicken in the pot and serve with your favorite toppings.
Notes
- Brown the meat first: Browning your beef or chicken before adding it to the crockpot gives the soup a richer flavor. It also keeps the meat from tasting bland or mushy.
- Use low-sodium broth: Since taco seasoning already has plenty of salt, low-sodium broth helps balance the flavors. This way, you can control the seasoning better.
- Add beans last if you like them firm: Cooking beans too long in the slow cooker can make them extra soft. Stir them in during the last hour to keep their texture.
- Don’t forget the toppings: Fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, cheese, or lime juice can completely change the soup. They add brightness and make each bowl taste unique.
Nutrition
Disclaimer
Please note that nutrient values are estimates only. Variations can occur due to product availability and manner of food preparation. Nutrition may vary based on methods of origin, preparation, freshness of ingredients, and other factors.
fresh side for taco soup
Pair your taco soup with a fresh, flavorful salad for a balanced meal. A simple green salad with avocado, salads with cheese, or a veggie salad complements the soup perfectly.
