Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup

Mexican Street Corn Soup is the perfect comfort food that brings a taste of vibrant flavors to your table. This Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup is not only easy to make, but it’s also packed with creamy goodness, tender chicken, and a hint of spice. Ideal for cozy dinners or gatherings, this soup showcases the rich tastes of Mexico while being comforting and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With less than 10 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it!
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a deliciously rich flavor profile.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep; this soup fits any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at your next gathering, and watch everyone come back for seconds.
• Nourishing Meal: Packed with protein from chicken and the goodness of vegetables, it’s a hearty option.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to make cooking a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large sauté pan
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking where flavors meld beautifully over time.
• Large sauté pan: Essential for browning ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker for enhanced flavor.
• Cutting board & knife: Ensures safe chopping and preparation of vegetables in no time.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup:

Vegetables

• 1 white onion, diced
• 1 poblano pepper or jalapeno pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, diced or minced

Spices

• 2 tsp chili powder
• 2 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp sea salt

Base Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
• 2 cups frozen corn
• 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, diced
• 2 tbsp adobo sauce

Protein

• 1 lb chicken breast

Liquids

• 6 cups chicken broth

Creaminess

• 8 oz cream cheese or crème fraîche

Optional Garnishes

• 6 slices of Turkey Bacon
• 2 limes (for garnish)
• Cilantro (for garnish)
• 1/2 cup cotija cheese

How to Make Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Heat a large sauté pan over medium heat.
2. Add the olive oil.
3. Sauté the onion, poblano (or jalapeno), and garlic until softened—about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in chili powder and cumin; cook for another few minutes until fragrant. Transfer mixture to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Combine Main Ingredients

1. Add frozen corn, diced potatoes, chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, chicken breast, and chicken broth into the slow cooker.
2. Set the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours.

Step 3: Finish with Creaminess

1. In the last 30 minutes of cooking time, stir in cream cheese or crème fraîche until melted and well combined.
2. Meanwhile, prepare Turkey Bacon on the stovetop or in the oven until crispy.

Step 4: Serve

1. Ladle soup into bowls topped with crumbled Turkey Bacon.
2. Garnish with cotija cheese, fresh lime juice, and cilantro if desired.
3. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed!

Enjoy your homemade Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup

Serving Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup can elevate your meal experience. This creamy and hearty soup pairs well with various garnishes and sides, making it a delightful choice for any occasion.

Add Fresh Garnishes

• Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the soup for a zesty kick.
• Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for added flavor and color.

Top with Crunchy Elements

• Crumbled Turkey Bacon: Adds a crispy texture and savory taste that complements the soup.
• Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese enhances the creaminess and adds a salty punch.

Serve with Warm Bread

• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside crunchy tortilla chips for an extra crunch.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup

To make the best Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup, consider these helpful tips that can enhance its flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will provide better flavor than frozen alternatives. Opt for ripe tomatoes or fresh herbs when possible.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder soup, use less chili powder or opt for a sweet pepper instead of jalapeno.
• Experiment with Broth: For richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
• Blend for Creaminess: For an ultra-creamy texture, blend part of the soup before adding back to the slow cooker with cream cheese.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup can create a complete meal. Here are some great options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Guacamole: Rich and creamy avocado dip that adds a refreshing contrast to the soup.
2. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices that enhances the overall meal experience.
3. Zesty Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw with lime dressing offers a refreshing crunch alongside the warm soup.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Charred seasonal veggies provide a smoky flavor that pairs nicely with the sweet corn.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Moist cornbread muffins offer sweetness and a soft texture that balances the soup’s creaminess.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with grains or beans make a hearty side dish bursting with flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup, avoiding common mistakes can lead to a more flavorful and satisfying dish.

• Using fresh corn instead of frozen: Frozen corn is often sweeter and more convenient than fresh. Stick to frozen for the best flavor and texture.
• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the onions, peppers, and spices enhances their flavors. Always take this extra step for a tastier soup.
• Overcooking chicken: Cooking chicken breast too long can result in dry meat. Check for doneness around the 6-hour mark if cooking on low.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Every broth varies in saltiness. Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Not adding garnishes: Fresh lime juice, cilantro, and cotija cheese elevate the soup. Don’t skip these toppings for a burst of flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers, as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until hot.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute increments, stirring between each until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with beans or additional vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How can I spice up my Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup?

Add more chipotle peppers or hot sauce for extra heat. You can also include diced jalapeños during cooking.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt or cashew cream for a dairy-free option that still adds creaminess.

How do I store leftovers of Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup is not just delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Whether you want it spicier or creamier, feel free to adjust according to your taste! This comforting dish is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home—give it a try!