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 delicious soup is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends alike!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: Just throw everything in the crock pot and let it cook! Minimal prep time means you can focus on other tasks.
- Flavorful: The combination of taco seasoning, beans, and tomatoes creates a hearty and savory profile that satisfies cravings.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite toppings like cheese, avocado, or cilantro to make it your own.
- Budget-Friendly: Made from simple ingredients that are often found in your pantry, making it an economical choice.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Great for using up extra rice or canned goods you have on hand, reducing food waste.
Tools and Preparation
To make this delightful soup, you’ll need a few essential tools that will help streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Cutting Board
- Knife
- Measuring Spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow Cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring your meal is ready when you are.
- Cutting Board: Provides a stable surface to chop ingredients safely and efficiently.
- Knife: A sharp knife helps in quickly dicing vegetables and prepping meats without hassle.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need for the Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe:
For the Soup
- 1 lb ground beef (browned)
- 2 Tbsp Taco Seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 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)
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (15 oz can)
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cups Cooked rice
How to Make Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
- Place all ingredients except for the cooked rice into your slow cooker. This includes the browned ground beef, taco seasoning, garlic salt, salt, pepper, diced onion, corn, black beans, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth.
Step 3: Cook the Soup
- Cover the crock pot with its lid.
- Set to low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–2.5 hours. Let it work its magic slowly!
Step 4: Add Rice Before Serving
Just before serving:
* Stir in the cooked rice into the soup.
* Cover and allow it to warm through for about 2–4 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Scoop the soup into bowls and add your favorite toppings like cheese or avocado if desired. Enjoy this comforting meal with family or friends!
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. You can customize it with various toppings and sides to enhance the flavor and presentation.
Toppings
- Shredded Cheese: Add a sprinkle of cheddar or Monterey Jack for creaminess.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top adds tang and richness.
- Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a burst of flavor and color.
- Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado enhances the texture and taste of the soup.
- Crushed Tortilla Chips: For added crunch, toss some chips on top before serving.
Accompaniments
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with this savory soup.
- Tortilla Wraps: Soft tortillas are perfect for scooping up the soup.
- Salad: A fresh side salad can lighten the meal and add freshness.
How to Perfect Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe
To ensure your Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and spices to enhance flavors.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and spice levels before serving to suit your palate.
- Cook Low and Slow: For the best flavor, cook on low heat to allow all ingredients to meld together perfectly.
- Add Veggies: Consider adding bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Experiment with Grains: Swap rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different texture.
Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe
Pair your hearty soup with these delicious side dishes that complement its flavors perfectly.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant salad features corn, lime, cilantro, and cheese for a fresh bite.
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado mixed with lime juice and spices enhances the meal’s richness.
- Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime adds a zesty kick.
- Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with salsa make for a classic pairing.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice or beans can be a filling companion to the soup.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Lightly seasoned rice with lime juice complements the flavors in the soup beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can help you make the best Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe. Here are some to watch out for:
Overcooking the beef: Browning the ground beef is essential, but cooking it too long can make it tough. Cook until just browned before adding to the slow cooker.
Ignoring seasoning levels: Not using enough taco seasoning or salt can lead to bland soup. Adjust seasonings to your taste for a more flavorful dish.
Skipping the rice: Adding rice too early can cause it to become mushy. Stir in the cooked rice just before serving to maintain its texture.
Neglecting ingredient quality: Using low-quality canned goods or broth can affect flavor. Choose high-quality ingredients for the best results.
Not tasting before serving: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasoning as necessary to ensure it’s perfectly seasoned.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- The soup lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe
- Allow the soup to cool completely.
- Freeze in a heavy-duty freezer bag or airtight container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a lid, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe:
Can I use other meats in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option while still keeping great flavor.
How do I customize my Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace meat with beans such as lentils or chickpeas and use vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian option.
What toppings go well with taco rice soup?
Some great toppings include shredded cheese, avocado, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe is not only budget-friendly but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices. It’s perfect for chilly evenings and makes a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy. Give it a try and make it your own!
Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup
Looking for a delicious and budget-friendly meal that can be whipped up with minimal effort? The Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe is here to save the day! This hearty soup combines tender ground beef, savory beans, and rich tomatoes, all seasoned with taco flavors that will delight your taste buds. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, it requires just a few easy steps—combine ingredients in your slow cooker and let it work its magic. Top with your favorites like cheese or avocado for a personalized touch. Enjoy this comforting dish that not only satisfies cravings but also helps reduce food waste by utilizing leftovers!
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 Tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- ½ onion (diced)
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 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
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
- Add all ingredients except cooked rice into the slow cooker: browned beef, taco seasoning, garlic salt, salt, pepper, diced onion, 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.
- Just before serving, stir in the cooked rice and allow to warm through for about 2–4 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–5 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 300g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg