Cheesy Fiesta Slow Cooker Nacho Soup

This rich and hearty Slow Cooker Nacho Soup brings together all the zesty flavors of your favorite cheesy nachos into one comforting bowl. By letting the ingredients meld together over a gentle simmer, you’ll wake up (or come home) to a fragrant, warming feast that’s as inviting as it is easy. The best part? You can set it and forget it in your slow cooker, leaving plenty of time to savor life’s other pleasures before mealtime.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (or turkey, if you prefer)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, sour cream, chopped cilantro, crushed tortilla chips

Instructions

Begin by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic once the meat is partially cooked, letting everything sizzle until the onions become translucent and the beef is fully browned. Drain any excess fat.

Transfer the browned beef mixture into your slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, broth, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika (if you’re using it) to the slow cooker. Give it all a good stir to combine.

Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. About 15 minutes before serving, gently stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Let it melt through the soup, creating a velvety texture and wonderfully cheesy flavor.

Taste and season with salt and black pepper. Ladle the soup into bowls and dress it up with your chosen toppings—think zippy jalapeños, a dollop of tangy sour cream, fresh cilantro, or crunchy tortilla chips.

In just a few bites, you’ll see why people keep coming back for more of this creamy, slow-cooked goodness.

This recipe is great for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or any time you’re craving a kick of spice. It can be easily tweaked to fit your dietary needs: swap in ground turkey for a leaner option, use low-sodium broth for reduced salt, or change up the cheese if you’re dairy-free. Lighter and spicy variations are easy to achieve with reduced-fat cheese or an extra pinch of chili powder.

Serve it up with a crisp green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, this Slow Cooker Nacho Soup promises all the cozy, cheesy flavor of nachos in a spoonable, shareable form.