Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe

Need a budget-friendly soup? Try the Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe made from leftovers. The slow cooker does all the work, making this dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to please everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply toss in your ingredients and let the slow cooker do its magic.
• Flavorful Profile: Packed with spices and combined with beans and tomatoes, this soup is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your bowl with toppings like cheese, avocado, or sour cream to suit your taste.
• Budget-Friendly: Utilizes affordable ingredients, making it a great choice for families or meal prepping.
• Leftover Friendly: A fantastic way to use up leftover cooked rice or other pantry staples.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious soup, you’ll need a few essential tools that will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Serving spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This appliance allows you to set it and forget it, making meal prep incredibly easy.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate seasoning for a perfectly balanced flavor.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 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 black beans (15 oz can)
• 1 can 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 it to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Combine All Ingredients

In the slow cooker, add the browned beef along with taco seasoning, garlic salt, salt, pepper, diced onion, corn, black beans, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-2.5 hours. This allows all flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Add Rice Before Serving

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

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like cheese or avocado. Enjoy your delicious Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup!

How to Serve Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe

Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various toppings and sides to make it even more enjoyable. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: Add a sprinkle of cheddar or Monterey Jack for a creamy touch.
• Sour Cream: A dollop provides a cool contrast to the spicy soup.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds an aromatic flavor that brightens the dish.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado enhances texture and flavor.
• Corn Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips offer a delightful texture and can be used for dipping.

Accompaniments

• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice adds freshness and tanginess.
• Hot Sauce: For those who like extra heat, hot sauce can kick up the spice level.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t shy away from adding more taco seasoning or spices to enhance the flavor profile.
• Fresh ingredients: Use fresh vegetables whenever possible for better taste and nutritional value.
• Adjust consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or add more rice.
• Pre-cook meat: Browning the ground beef beforehand intensifies its flavor before mixing it with other ingredients.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe

Pairing your Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup with complementary side dishes can create a satisfying meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mexican Cornbread: This sweet and savory bread pairs wonderfully with the soup’s flavors.
2. Garden Salad: A light salad with greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers balances out the heartiness of the soup.
3. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole offers a rich texture that complements the spiciness of the soup.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf can soak up any extra broth, making for a perfect pairing.
5. Chips and Salsa: A classic combination that adds crunch and zest alongside your warm soup.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies provide a nutritious side that enhances your meal’s overall healthiness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the meat: Browning the ground beef too long can make it tough. Brown it just until it’s no longer pink for a tender bite.
• Ignoring seasoning: Skipping the taco seasoning or using too little can lead to bland soup. Ensure you measure accurately and adjust to your taste preferences.
• Not adding enough liquid: Insufficient broth can result in a dry mixture. Always stick to the recommended amount of beef broth for perfect consistency.
• Forgetting the rice timing: Adding cooked rice too early can make it mushy. Stir it in just before serving to keep it fluffy and delicious.
• Using expired ingredients: Old spices or canned goods can affect flavor and safety. Always check expiration dates before cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe

• Cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for 20-30 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring halfway through, until hot (about 2-4 minutes).
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pot on medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about this recipe.

What is in the Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe?

This recipe includes ground beef, beans, corn, crushed tomatoes, and seasonings combined with rice for a hearty meal.

How long does it take to make Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe?

The total time is about 245 minutes, including 5 minutes of prep time and cooking time of either 4-5 hours on low or 2-2.5 hours on high.

Can I customize my Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini, use different proteins like chicken or turkey, or even vary the spices according to your taste.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this soup stores well and is perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch and freeze portions for future meals.

Final Thoughts

The Crock Pot Taco Rice Soup Recipe is not only budget-friendly but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Give it a try and enjoy a deliciously comforting meal!