Need a budget-friendly soup? Try the Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe made from leftovers. The slow cooker does all the work, and dinner is ready fast. This soup is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, providing hearty flavors that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: Just throw the ingredients in your crock pot and let it do the magic.
Flavorful: Packed with spices and beans, this soup offers a deliciously rich taste.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite toppings such as cheese, avocado, or cilantro.
Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with protein and fiber, it’s a nutritious option for any meal.
Budget-Friendly: Utilize affordable ingredients to make a filling meal without breaking the bank.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that make cooking efficient and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Slow cooker
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring spoons
Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, perfect for busy lifestyles.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for prepping ingredients.
Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Base

1 lb ground beef (browned)
2 Tbsp Taco Seasoning
1 tsp garlic salt
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
½ onion (diced)

For the Soup

1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
1 can of black beans (15 oz can)
1 can of kidney beans (15 oz can)
1 can crushed tomatoes (15 oz can)
3 cups beef broth

For Serving

2 cups cooked rice

How to Make Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess fat before adding to your crock pot.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot

Place all the ingredients except for the rice into your slow cooker:
* Add the browned beef.
* Stir in taco seasoning, garlic salt, regular salt, pepper, diced onion, corn, black beans, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

Cover your crock pot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2 to 2.5 hours. This allows all flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Add Rice Before Serving

Just before serving, stir in the cooked rice. Cover again and let it warm up for about 2-4 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle your delicious soup into bowls. Top with your favorite toppings like cheese or avocado if desired. Enjoy your Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe!

How to Serve Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe

Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you prefer a hearty bowl on its own or topped with your favorite ingredients, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table.

Toppings

Avocado slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and balances the flavors of the soup.
Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of cheese melts beautifully over the hot soup for added flavor.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or yogurt provides a tangy contrast to the spicy soup.
Chopped cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a burst of freshness that elevates the dish.
Lime wedges: Squeezing lime juice enhances the flavors and adds brightness to each bite.

Accompaniments

Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for dipping and add texture to your meal.
Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread alongside for a comforting combination that complements the soup.
Simple green salad: A light salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

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 spices will enhance the flavor profile of your soup.
Adjust spice levels: Modify the amount of taco seasoning to suit your taste; feel free to add more or less for spiciness.
Let it simmer longer: For richer flavors, let the soup cook on low for an extra hour if time allows.
Experiment with beans: Try adding other beans like pinto or white beans for variety in texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options.

Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips and adds freshness.
Mexican street corn salad: A vibrant salad featuring sweet corn, lime, and chili powder for a delightful crunch.
Pico de gallo: Fresh tomato salsa that adds zest and complements the flavors of the soup beautifully.
Rice and beans: Simple yet satisfying, this classic side can enhance the heartiness of your meal.
Stuffed peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa and veggies make a nutritious addition.
Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas offer a warm and melty side that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe perfect, avoid these common mistakes.

Skipping the browning step: Browning the ground beef adds depth and flavor. Make sure you brown it before adding it to the crock pot for a richer taste.
Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Each brand of taco seasoning can vary in strength. Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasonings as needed for the right flavor.
Using uncooked rice: Adding uncooked rice can lead to a mushy texture. Always use cooked rice in this recipe to ensure the right consistency.
Overcooking the soup: Cooking too long can cause vegetables to become mushy. Stick to the recommended cooking times for best results.
Neglecting toppings: Toppings add fun and flavor! Don’t forget to serve with cheese, avocado, or cilantro to enhance your soup experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
The soup will last for 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe

Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.
Microwave: Transfer portions into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Pour soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about our Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe.

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.

How spicy is this Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe?

The spice level depends on the taco seasoning used. For mild flavor, choose a mild taco seasoning blend.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I store leftover Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze it for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also budget-friendly and delicious. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or additional veggies. Give it a try, and enjoy a warm bowl of comfort!