Need a budget-friendly soup? Try Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe made from leftovers. This easy and delicious dish is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. With minimal prep time, the slow cooker does all the work, and dinner is ready to enjoy in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: Simply toss all ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do its magic.
- Flavorful Dish: Packed with spices and hearty ingredients, this soup bursts with flavor in every spoonful.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever beans or veggies you have on hand; it’s a great way to clean out your pantry.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze for later.
- Family-Friendly: With its comforting taste, this soup is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Can opener
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: The star of this recipe, it allows for hands-off cooking, making meal prep easy.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and safe chopping of vegetables like onions.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 lb ground beef (browned)
- 2 Tbsp Taco Seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
Vegetables and Legumes
- ½ onion (diced)
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 can of black beans (15 oz can)
- 1 can of kidney beans (15 oz can)
Base Ingredients
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (15 oz can)
- 3 cups beef broth
Final Touch
- 2 cups cooked rice
How to Make Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients. Brown the ground beef in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This step enhances the flavor.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Place all the ingredients except for the cooked rice into the crock pot:
1. Add browned ground beef.
2. Mix in taco seasoning, garlic salt, salt, pepper, diced onions, corn, black beans, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth.
Step 3: Cook the Soup
Cover the crock pot:
– Cook on low for 4-5 hours.
– Alternatively, cook on high for 2-2.5 hours.
Step 4: Add the Rice Before Serving
Just before serving:
1. Stir in cooked rice into the soup.
2. Cover again and allow it to warm up for 2-4 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle into bowls and serve with your favorite toppings like cheese or avocado. Enjoy this hearty Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe with friends and family!
How to Serve Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe
Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup is a delicious and comforting meal that can be easily customized with your favorite toppings. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Fresh Toppings
- Chopped Cilantro – Adds a fresh, herbal flavor that brightens up the soup.
- Sour Cream – Provides creaminess and balances the spices.
- Shredded Cheese – Melts beautifully on top, adding richness to each bowl.
Crunchy Additions
- Tortilla Chips – Perfect for scooping and adds a delightful crunch.
- Diced Avocado – Creamy texture complements the soup’s warmth.
- Jalapeños – For those who like it spicy, sliced jalapeños give an extra kick.
Accompanying Beverages
- Iced Tea – A refreshing drink that pairs well with the rich flavors of the soup.
- Lemonade – The sweetness contrasts the savory notes of the dish perfectly.
How to Perfect Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe
To make your Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and quality meats enhance flavor and nutrition.
- Let it Simmer Longer – Cooking on low for longer develops deeper flavors; aim for 6-8 hours if possible.
- Adjust Seasoning – Taste before serving; you may want to add more salt or spices based on preference.
- Use Leftovers Wisely – This recipe is perfect for using leftover taco meat or rice for added convenience.
Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe
Pairing your soup with a side dish can elevate the meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Cornbread – Sweet cornbread complements the savory notes of the soup; serve warm with butter.
- Garden Salad – A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and dressing balances out the meal.
- Mexican Street Corn – Grilled corn topped with cheese and lime is a flavorful addition.
- Rice Pilaf – A subtly seasoned rice dish that adds texture without overpowering flavors.
- Guacamole and Chips – Creamy guacamole served with crunchy chips makes for a great appetizer.
- Chili Lime Roasted Vegetables – Roasted veggies with chili powder enhance the Mexican theme of your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Using uncooked rice: Always use pre-cooked rice in your soup. Uncooked rice can absorb too much liquid and become mushy.
- Not browning the meat: Browning ground beef before adding it to the crock pot enhances flavor. Skipping this step may leave your soup less tasty.
- Ignoring seasoning amounts: Be mindful of the seasoning. Using too little or too much can affect the overall flavor of your soup.
- Overfilling the crock pot: Ensure you do not exceed the recommended fill line. An overfilled crock pot can lead to uneven cooking and spills.
- Cooking on high when possible: If you have time, always opt for low heat. Cooking on high can make ingredients tough and less flavorful.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 3–4 days for best quality.
Freezing Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe
- Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, which should take about 10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding the Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe:
Can I use other types of meat?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.
How spicy is this Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe?
The spice level depends on your taco seasoning. Choose mild or spicy based on your preference.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or any veggies you like for extra nutrition.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free taco seasoning, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
The Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that makes for a comforting meal any day of the week. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various proteins and toppings like cheese, avocado, or sour cream. Try making this easy recipe today!
Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe
Looking for a delicious and budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights? Look no further than this Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe! This comforting dish combines savory ground beef, hearty beans, and vibrant vegetables, all simmered together with flavorful taco seasoning. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare! Just toss your ingredients into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you go about your day. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or at a gathering, this soup is sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 Tbsp taco seasoning
- ½ onion (diced)
- 1 can black beans (15 oz)
- 1 can kidney beans (15 oz)
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (15 oz)
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then add it to the slow cooker.
- Combine browned beef with taco seasoning, diced onions, corn, black beans, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-2.5 hours.
- Stir in the cooked rice just before serving and warm for an additional few minutes.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
