If you’re a fan of Tex-Mex cuisine and want a simple, delicious way to enjoy the flavors of tacos without all the hassle, get ready for a culinary treat! We’ll show you how to make Crockpot Taco Soup. It’s a hearty and comforting soup that captures the essence of tacos in a bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Meal
- Effortless Cooking . Thanks to your Crockpot, you can savor the tastes of tacos without spending hours in the kitchen. This soup practically prepares itself.
- Family-Friendly . Whether it’s a weeknight dinner for the family or you’re entertaining guests, Crockpot Taco Soup is a crowd-pleaser. It’s a complete main course and satisfying Tex-Mex meal in a bowl.
- Customizable. The beauty of this beef recipe is its versatility. You can personalize it with your favorite taco ingredients like beans, corn, or a dash of spicy jalapeños.
- All the Taco Flavors. Crockpot Taco Soup captures the essence of tacos, from the seasoned ground beef to the zesty tomato base and the toppings you love.
Ready to embark on this Tex-Mex culinary journey? Let’s dive into the details of creating this Crockpot Taco Soup.
Is Slow Cooking Soup Better?
Slow cooking isn’t always better for every type of soup. For some recipes, especially those with more delicate ingredients like seafood or those where you want the ingredients to remain distinct, a quicker stovetop or Instant Pot method may be preferred.
Slow cooking is all about letting the flavors blend and the ingredients meld, so the choice depends on the specific soup you want to make and your personal preferences.
How Do You Thicken Taco Soup?
Thickening taco soup is easy and can be done in various ways. Here are some common methods to thicken your soup:
- Cornstarch Slurry - Mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water to create a slurry. Slowly pour this mixture into your simmering taco soup while stirring continuously. The soup will thicken as it comes to a boil. You can add more slurry if needed.
- Masa Harina - Masa harina, a type of corn flour used for making tortillas, tamales, and more, is a great thickening agent for taco soup. Mix a couple of tablespoons of masa harina with some cold water to form a paste, then stir it into your soup. Allow it to simmer, and it will thicken the soup while adding a pleasant corn flavor.
- Refried Beans - If you want to both thicken your soup and add more flavor, consider adding a can of refried beans. This will give your soup a creamy texture and enhance its taco flavor.
- Cheese - If your taco soup has a cheese component, the cheese can also act as a thickening agent as it melts. It provides a creamy texture and extra flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Ground Beef - Lean ground beef is the star of this soup.
- Onion and Garlic - These aromatic ingredients lay the foundation of your taco-flavored broth.
- Tomatoes - A combination of diced tomatoes and tomato sauce provides a rich and tangy base.
- Taco Seasoning - A medley of spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika infuse the soup with classic taco flavors.
- Black Beans and Red Kidney Beans - They add heartiness and fiber to your soup.
- Corn - Sweet corn kernels contribute a burst of flavor and texture.
- Beef Broth - Beef broth adds savory depth to your soup.
- Toppings - Your favorite taco toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or tortilla chips, complete the experience.
How To Make Crockpot Taco Soup
- Brown the Beef . Start by browning the lean ground beef in a skillet. Crumble it as it cooks, and drain any excess fat. You can skip this step and crumble the uncooked ground beef directly into the slow cooker if you use extremely lean ground beef.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic . In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until they become fragrant and translucent.
- Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot . Transfer the browned beef, sautéed onions and garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, taco seasoning, canned black beans and kidney beans, drained canned corn, and beef broth to your Crockpot. Give everything a good stir to ensure all the flavors meld.
- Slow Cook to Perfection . Set your slow cooker to low heat and let the magic happen. Allow the Crockpot Taco Soup to simmer for 6-8 hours or until you can’t resist the aroma any longer.
- Serve with Toppings . When it’s time to serve, ladle the piping hot soup into bowls. Invite everyone to customize their bowls with their preferred taco toppings. Try cheese, sour cream, avocado, and tortilla chips.
Tips And Tricks
Making a delicious crockpot taco soup is easy, but there are some tips and tricks that can help you achieve the best results:
- Brown the Meat . While you can add raw ground beef to the crockpot, browning it first enhances the flavor and texture. Drain the excess fat before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Taco Seasoning . Use store-bought taco seasoning or make your own by blending chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a bit of cayenne for heat. Adjust the seasoning to your preferred spice level.
- Drain and Rinse . If you’re using canned beans or corn, rinse and drain them before adding them to the crockpot. This helps reduce the sodium content and prevents the soup from becoming too thick.
Variations
Crockpot Taco Soup is flexible, allowing you to get creative with variations:
- Vegetarian Version - Skip the ground beef and opt for plant-based protein sources like tofu or plant-based crumbles.
- Chicken Taco Soup - Replace the beef with cooked and shredded chicken for a leaner alternative.
- Spicy Taco Soup - For heat lovers, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
What To Serve With Crockpot Taco Soup
Crockpot taco soup is a hearty and flavorful dish on its own, but you can enhance your meal by serving it with some tasty side dishes. Here are some great options to complement it:
- Tortilla Chips - Serve a basket of tortilla chips on the side. They are perfect for dipping into the soup and adding a satisfying crunch.
- Guacamole - Fresh guacamole is a fantastic accompaniment for taco soup. The creamy, rich avocado flavor pairs well with the spicy and savory soup.
- Sour Cream - A dollop of sour cream on top of the taco soup adds a cooling element to balance the heat and spices. It also provides a creamy contrast to the soup’s texture.
- Salsa - Offer a variety of salsas, such as mild and spicy options. They’re great for customizing the heat level and adding an extra layer of flavor.
- Shredded Cheese - Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican cheese blends are excellent choices. Sprinkle some on top of your taco soup for a cheesy finish.
How Long Does It Last?
Leftover Crockpot Taco Soup can be refrigerated in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
Alternatively, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months in freezer-safe containers. Reheat it as needed for quick and satisfying Tex-Mex meals.
More Of OurBest Taco Recipes
- Instant Pot Taco Soup
- Taco Dip
- Taco Salad
- Indian Pulled Pork Tacos
- Chicken Tinga Tacos
Crockpot Taco Soup | Easy Slow Cooker Taco Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- ▢ 1 pound Lean Ground Beef
- ▢ 1 Onion , diced
- ▢ 3 cloves Garlic , minced
- ▢ 15 ounces Canned Diced Tomatoes
- ▢ 15 ounces Tomato Sauce
- ▢ 2 tbsp Taco Seasoning
- ▢ 15 ounces Canned Black Beans , drained and rinsed
- ▢ 15 ounces Red Kidney Beans
- ▢ 15 ounces Canned Corn , drained
- ▢ 4 cups Beef Broth
- ▢ 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- ▢ 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
Instructions
- Brown the Beef . Start by browning the lean ground beef in a skillet. Crumble it as it cooks, and drain any excess fat. You can skip this step and crumble the uncooked ground beef directly into the slow cooker if you use extremely lean ground beef.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic . In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until they become fragrant and translucent.
- Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot . Transfer the browned beef, sautéed onions and garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, taco seasoning, canned black beans, drained canned corn, and beef broth to your Crockpot. Give everything a good stir to ensure all the flavors meld.
- Slow Cook to Perfection . Set your slow cooker to low heat and let the magic happen. Allow the Crockpot Taco Soup to simmer for 6-8 hours or until you can’t resist the aroma any longer.
- Serve with Toppings . When it’s time to serve, ladle the piping hot soup into bowls. Invite everyone to customize their bowls with their preferred taco toppings. Try cheese, sour cream, avocado, and tortilla chips.
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Crockpot Taco Soup | Easy Slow Cooker Taco Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound Lean Ground Beef
- 1 Onion diced
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
- 15 ounces Canned Diced Tomatoes
- 15 ounces Tomato Sauce
- 2 tbsp Taco Seasoning
- 15 ounces Canned Black Beans drained and rinsed
- 15 ounces Red Kidney Beans
- 15 ounces Canned Corn drained
- 4 cups Beef Broth
- 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
Instructions
- Brown the Beef . Start by browning the lean ground beef in a skillet. Crumble it as it cooks, and drain any excess fat. You can skip this step and crumble the uncooked ground beef directly into the slow cooker if you use extremely lean ground beef.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic . In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until they become fragrant and translucent.
- Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot . Transfer the browned beef, sautéed onions and garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, taco seasoning, canned black beans, drained canned corn, and beef broth to your Crockpot. Give everything a good stir to ensure all the flavors meld.
- Slow Cook to Perfection . Set your slow cooker to low heat and let the magic happen. Allow the Crockpot Taco Soup to simmer for 6-8 hours or until you can’t resist the aroma any longer.
- Serve with Toppings . When it’s time to serve, ladle the piping hot soup into bowls. Invite everyone to customize their bowls with their preferred taco toppings. Try cheese, sour cream, avocado, and tortilla chips.
Crockpot Taco Soup | Easy Slow Cooker Taco Soup Recipe https://twosleevers.com/crockpot-taco-soup/
Are you in the mood for a hearty, satisfying, and effortlessly delicious meal? Look no further. Our Baked Spaghetti recipe is a true classic, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving a comforting dish that practically cooks itself.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Dinner Recipe
- Effortless Perfection . Making Baked Spaghetti is a breeze. No need to babysit a pot or pan – assemble, bake, and enjoy. The oven does the work for you!
- Classic Comfort . This dish combines the beloved flavors of spaghetti and gooey cheese in every bite. It’s the ultimate comfort food, bringing warmth and nostalgia to your table.
- Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing . Baked Spaghetti is a crowd-pleaser. Customize it with your favorite ingredients, from veggies to different types of cheese, to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
- Meal Prep Champion . Make a big batch, and you’ll have leftovers that taste even better the next day. Ideal for those busy weeknights when you crave a quick, delicious meal.
Is Baked Spaghetti Better Than Regular?
The choice between Baked Spaghetti and regular spaghetti comes down to personal preference.
Some people enjoy the added richness and textures of baked versions, while others prefer the simplicity and immediacy of traditional spaghetti. It’s a matter of taste, and both options can be delicious in their own right.
How Do You Keep Baked Spaghetti From Drying Out?
To keep baked spaghetti from drying out, you can follow these tips:
- Sufficient Sauce . Ensure that your spaghetti is well-coated in sauce. Use enough sauce to keep the pasta moist, but not swimming in it. The sauce is essential for retaining moisture.
- Cover with Foil . When baking your spaghetti in the oven, start by covering the baking dish with aluminum foil. This helps trap moisture and prevents the top layer from drying out too quickly.
- Don’t Overcook . Avoid overcooking the spaghetti before baking. Undercook it slightly, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This prevents the pasta from becoming too soft and dry during baking.
What Is Baked Spaghetti Made Of?
- Spaghetti - The star of the show, this pasta provides a hearty base.
- Ground Beef - Adds a meaty richness to the sauce.
- Onion and Garlic - The aromatic foundation of the sauce.
- Spaghetti Sauce - Your favorite jar of marinara sauce or homemade sauce if you prefer.
- Italian Seasoning - A blend of herbs that infuse the dish with Italian flair.
- Eggs - They help bind the spaghetti together.
- Parmesan Cheese - For a nutty, savory kick.
- Mozzarella Cheese - The gooey, melty cheese that makes this dish a comfort food classic.
- Fresh Basil - Optional but adds a burst of fresh flavor.
- Salt and Pepper - To season it to perfection.
How To Make Baked Spaghetti
- Cook the Spaghetti . Start by boiling the spaghetti according to the package instructions. This is typically 7-9 minutes. It should be cooked until just al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Brown the Beef . While the pasta cooks, brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re aromatic and the beef is no longer pink.
- Sauce It Up . Add your favorite marinara sauce or a homemade one to the browned beef. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, then let it simmer for a few minutes to develop its flavors.
- Binding Agent . In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a portion of shredded mozzarella. This mixture acts as a binder for the spaghetti.
- Layer and Bake . In a greased baking dish, layer the cooked spaghetti, the egg and cheese mixture, and the meat sauce. Repeat for a delightful spaghetti layer cake. Top with more mozzarella cheese.
- Baking Magic . Bake your masterpiece in an oven preheated to 350F for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese turns golden and bubbly, and the spaghetti is tender. The kitchen fills with the aroma of baked goodness.
- Finishing Touch . Before serving, sprinkle fresh basil over the cheesy top if you like a burst of freshness.
Tips And Tricks
To perfect your Baked Spaghetti, consider these tips and tricks:
- Sauce Consistency . If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken up. A thicker sauce ensures your baked dish isn’t too watery.
- Al Dente Pasta . Don’t overcook the spaghetti before baking. It should be slightly undercooked because it continues cooking in the oven.
Variations
Variety is the spice of life, and Baked Spaghetti offers many opportunities for creativity:
- Vegetarian Delight - Skip the meat or replace it with plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian version.
- Mediterranean Twist - Add kalamata olives, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flavor profile.
- Sausage Sensation - Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a zesty kick.
What To Serve With Baked Spaghetti
Wondering what to serve with Baked Spaghetti? Here are some ideas:
- Cauliflower Breadsticks - A classic side that pairs perfectly with saucy pasta dishes.
- Green Salad - A fresh green salad with vinaigrette dressing balances the richness of Baked Spaghetti.
- Roasted Vegetables - Serve with a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers.
How Long Is Leftover Spaghetti Good In The Fridge?
Store leftover Baked Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Reheat portions in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes, Baked Spaghetti freezes wonderfully. Divide it into portions, place in airtight containers, or wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Store in the freezer for 2-3 months, and you’ll have a homemade meal ready when you need it.
More Perfect Pasta Recipes
- Shrimp Pasta
- Pesto Pasta
- Instant Pot Eggplant Pasta
- Haluski Recipe
- Mushroom Pasta with Mascarpone
Baked Spaghetti Recipe | Easy Baked Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients
- ▢ 12 ounces Spaghetti Noodles
- ▢ 1 pound Ground Beef
- ▢ 1 Onion , diced
- ▢ 3 cloves Garlic , minced
- ▢ 3 cups Spaghetti Sauce
- ▢ 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning
- ▢ 2 Eggs
- ▢ 1 cup Parmesan Cheese , grated
- ▢ 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese , shredded
- ▢ Fresh Basil , chopped, for garnish
- ▢ 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- ▢ 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti . Start by boiling the spaghetti according to the package instructions. This is typically 7-9 minutes. It should be cooked until just al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Brown the Beef . While the pasta cooks, brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re aromatic and the beef is no longer pink.
- Sauce It Up . Add your favorite marinara sauce or a homemade one to the browned beef. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, then let it simmer for a few minutes to develop its flavors.
- Binding Agent . In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a portion of shredded mozzarella. This mixture acts as a binder for the spaghetti.
- Layer and Bake . In a greased baking dish, layer the cooked spaghetti, the egg and cheese mixture, and the meat sauce. Repeat for a delightful spaghetti layer cake. Top with more mozzarella cheese.
- Baking Magic . Bake your masterpiece in an oven preheated to 350F for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese turns golden and bubbly, and the spaghetti is tender. The kitchen fills with the aroma of baked goodness.
- Finishing Touch . Before serving, sprinkle fresh basil over the cheesy top if you like a burst of freshness.
