Nothing beats a warm, hearty bowl of soup when craving something comforting yet packed with flavor. This 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Tortilla Soup delivers all that with minimal effort, transforming simple pantry staples into a vibrant meal that fills the kitchen with inviting aromas.
Whether you’re an experienced home cook or new to slow cooker meals, this soup is a delicious lifesaver—perfect for busy days and effortless entertaining. Dive into this easy, satisfying dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare.
- Requires only five simple ingredients, perfect for quick prep and minimal cleanup.
- Slow cooker method allows rich, developed flavors with hands-off cooking.
- Versatile garnishes customize each bowl perfectly to individual tastes.
- Vegetarian-friendly when using vegetable broth; hearty and filling for all preferences.
Ingredients
- Diced Tomatoes (1 can, ~400 g): Provides a rich, tangy tomato base that forms the heart of this soup’s vibrant flavor.
- Black Beans (1 can, ~400 g, drained and rinsed): Adds protein and a creamy texture, balancing the soup with earthy notes.
- Corn Kernels (1 can, ~400 g, drained): Brings natural sweetness and a pleasant pop in every bite for textural contrast.
- Taco Seasoning Packet (or homemade equivalent): Infuses the soup with classic southwestern spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth (1.5–2 L / ~6–8 cups): Creates the soup’s flavorful liquid base; choose broth type depending on dietary preference.
- Tortilla Strips or Crushed Tortilla Chips (optional): Adds crunchy topping that heightens texture and ties the dish to its namesake ingredient.
- Shredded Cheese (optional): Melts beautifully atop the hot soup, adding creamy richness and depth.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt (optional): Offers a cool, tangy contrast that balances the spices perfectly.
- Sliced Avocado (optional): Brings buttery creaminess plus extra nutrients to each serving.
- Fresh Cilantro (optional): Provides bright herbal freshness and a burst of color.
- Lime Wedges (optional): Adds a zesty finish that elevates the flavors and refreshes the palate.
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
-
Place the diced tomatoes, black beans, drained corn, taco seasoning, and broth into the slow cooker pot. This combination ensures every bite has a balance of textures and deep flavor as the ingredients mingle together during cooking.
- Slow Cook for Optimal Flavor
-
Cover and set the slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Slow cooking allows the spices to infuse the soup and the vegetables to soften perfectly, creating a hearty, cohesive dish without requiring any active cooking time.
- Garnish and Serve Warm
-
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and add your chosen toppings such as crunchy tortilla strips, shredded cheese, and creamy avocado. Finishing with cilantro and lime juice brightens the flavors and adds freshness to this satisfying bowl.
- Adjust the heat by adding chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- For a protein boost, stir in shredded cooked chicken or ground turkey before serving.
- Choosing vegetable broth makes this recipe vegetarian-friendly, while chicken broth enhances its savory depth.
- Serve alongside cornbread or a fresh green salad to round out a complete meal.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if the soup has thickened.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this tortilla soup with warm cornbread or a crisp salad to balance its richness. Customize each bowl with your preferred toppings to create a fulfilling meal every time.
- For extra texture, toast tortilla strips in a dry skillet before garnishing.
- Make your own taco seasoning to control salt and spice levels, using cumin, paprika, chili powder, garlic, and onion powder.
- Adding a squeeze of fresh lime just before serving enhances brightness and complements smoky spices.
FAQs
- Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
-
Yes, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip any animal-based toppings to keep it fully plant-based.
- How Long Does the Soup Keep?
-
Stored properly in the fridge, it stays fresh for up to 4 days.
- Can I Freeze Leftovers?
-
This soup freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- What Can I Add for More Protein?
-
Shredded cooked chicken or ground turkey stirred in before serving boosts protein content.
- Is It Possible to Make This on the Stove?
-
Yes, combine ingredients in a pot and simmer gently for about 30 minutes until flavors meld and ingredients are heated through.
- Can I Use Fresh Ingredients Instead of Canned?
-
Fresh tomatoes, beans, and corn can be used but will require longer cooking and additional seasoning adjustments.
- How Spicy is the Soup?
-
The spice level is mild but can be easily increased with jalapeños or hot sauce to suit your taste.
Slow Cooker Tortilla Soup
Equipment
- 1 slow cooker
Ingredients
- 1 14 oz can diced tomatoes
- 1 14 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 14 oz can corn kernels, drained
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 6 to 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions
- Add diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, taco seasoning, and broth to the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until hot and flavors meld.
- Serve soup in bowls, topping with tortilla strips, shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro, or lime wedges as desired.
Notes
- Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra spice.
- Include shredded chicken or ground turkey for more protein.
- Use vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian or chicken broth for richer flavor.
- Serve with cornbread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
