Taco Soup (Tex-Mex) — Stovetop or Crockpot

Taco Soup brings zesty Tex-Mex comfort in every spoonful—beans, corn, peppers, and spices simmered into a hearty bowl you can make fast on the stove or hands-off in the slow cooker. The fire-roasted tomato base delivers smoky depth, jalapeños bring gentle heat, and the toppings let everyone customize their perfect bowl. Whether it’s a weeknight or a crowd-pleasing weekend spread, this is a reliable favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil (stovetop only)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 jalapeño, minced (seeded for mild)
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp taco seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 2 cans (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 4 cups broth (vegetable or chicken)
• 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1–2 tsp lime juice, plus more to taste
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Toppings: cilantro, red onion, shredded cheese, plain yogurt/crema, hot sauce, lime

Stovetop Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pot over medium. Sauté onion, jalapeño, and bell pepper with a pinch of salt for 5–6 minutes; add garlic for 30 seconds.
2. Stir in taco seasoning, smoked paprika, and cumin for 30–45 seconds.
3. Add tomatoes and broth; bring to a boil, then simmer 10 minutes.
4. Add beans and corn; simmer 5–8 minutes. Finish with lime, salt, and pepper.

Crockpot Instructions

1. Add all ingredients except lime and toppings to a slow cooker (no oil needed).
2. Cook 3–4 hours on High or 7–8 hours on Low, until flavors meld.
3. Stir in lime, season, and serve with toppings.

Fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky boost that makes Taco Soup taste restaurant-level.

Health Benefits

• Balanced bowl: Beans offer plant protein and fiber; veggies add vitamins and antioxidants.
• Custom sodium: Choose low-sodium broth and adjust seasoning to taste.
• Macro-friendly: Add more beans for extra protein or thin with broth for lighter bowls.

Pro Tips

• Ranch packet lovers: For the Taco Soup With Ranch Packet style, whisk ranch seasoning into individual bowls so you can control salt and tang.
• Birria Soup inspiration: A pinch of ancho plus a dash of vinegar adds deeper, gently tangy notes.
• Thicker texture: Simmer uncovered or mash a scoop of beans at the end.

Variations

• Nacho Soup topping: Add crushed tortilla chips and extra cheese for game-day crunch.
• Veg boost: Stir in zucchini or spinach during the last minute.
• Kid-friendly mild: Skip jalapeño and offer hot sauce at the table.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months. Reheat gently and refresh with a squeeze of lime. Great for batch cooking and topping bars.