Slow Cooker Taco Soup With Southwest Select Seasoning
Indulge in the flavors of the season with our Southwest Taco Soup recipe—perfectly seasoned with our Great Lakes Southwest Select blend. Warm up your winter evenings with a hearty combination of lean ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and a medley of savory spices. Discover the joy of soup season and bring a taste of the Southwest to your table!
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 pounds (450g) lean ground beef
2 cups (180g) diced yellow or red onions
2 to 3 cups or as needed (475ml to 710ml) beef stock (adjust for desired thickness)
2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
2 (4-ounce) cans chopped green chiles
2 cups (135g) corn kernels, fresh or frozen
4-6 tablespoons of Great Lakes Southwest Select Seasoning
Optional Toppings:
Tortilla chips, lightly crushed
Sour cream
Chopped cilantro
Finely diced or chopped red onion
Lime wedges
Instructions:
Brown the Beef with Onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add ground beef onions, and half of your Southwest Select Seasoning into your skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until beef is browned but not fully cooked, and onions are soft around the edges.
Break up the beef into smaller pieces with a spatula.
Remove from heat and use immediately or refrigerate for later.
Combine and Cook: In a slow cooker, combine the remainder of your Southwest Select Seasoning, browned beef, and onions with the remaining soup ingredients. Stir well.
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
Serve the Soup: Ladle the flavorful soup into bowls.
Top with lightly crushed tortilla chips, a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, and finely diced or chopped red onion.
Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for a burst of citrusy freshness.
Optional Customizations: Customize each bowl with additional toppings to suit individual preferences.
This Southwest Taco Soup is a hearty, flavorful delight perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Enjoy the rich blend of spices and textures, enhanced by your choice of optional toppings. Simple, delicious, and sure to become a family favorite!
Suggested Sides/Wine & Drink Parings:
Avocado and Black Bean Salad: Toss together diced avocados, black beans, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Dress it with lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. The creamy avocado and zesty flavors complement the robustness of the soup.
Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Roast or grill corn on the cob, then slather it with a mixture of mayonnaise, cotija cheese, Southwest Select Seasoning, and a squeeze of lime. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro. This side adds a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Mexican Rice: Prepare a flavorful Mexican rice with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and Southwest Select Seasoning. The rice serves as a satisfying and complementary base to the bold and spicy notes of the taco soup..
Margarita: The classic Margarita's citrusy kick and salted rim complement the bold and savory flavors of the taco soup. The acidity of the lime and the touch of tequila enhance the overall dining experience.
Mexican Beer, like a Corona or Modelo: A cold Mexican beer with a wedge of lime is a refreshing choice. The light and crisp nature of the beer provides a cooling contrast to the warm and spiced notes of the soup.
These sides enhance the overall dining experience, offering a variety of textures and tastes that harmonize with the Southwest-inspired flavors of the Taco Soup. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips:
Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of Great Lakes Southwest Select Seasoning according to your spice preference. If you prefer milder flavors, start with a smaller amount and add more gradually.
Fresh Corn vs. Frozen Corn: While the recipe allows for both fresh or frozen corn, consider using fresh corn when it's in season for a burst of sweetness and crunch. If using frozen corn, add it directly to the slow cooker without thawing.
Toppings and Garnishes: The beauty of taco soup lies in the toppings! Set up a "toppings bar" with options like crushed tortilla chips, sour cream, cilantro, diced red onions, lime wedges and your favorite hot sauce. Let everyone customize their bowl for a personalized experience.
Simmering Time: Allow the soup to simmer on low for the recommended 6 to 7 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in a rich and hearty soup. Be patient—it's worth the wait!
These tips ensure a flavorful and enjoyable experience with your Southwest Taco Soup. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!