Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cowboy Soup is a quick, satisfying meal that’s full of protein and veggies, making it both hearty and nutritious. It’s budget-friendly, perfect for feeding a large crowd, and the smoky seasonings bring delicious southwest flavors. Plus, it’s simple to make, and it’s even better the next day as leftovers!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef
- Mirepoix (onion, celery, carrots)
- Potatoes (Yukon gold or baby red)
- Diced tomatoes
- Corn (canned or fresh)
- Beef broth or bone broth
- Spices (smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, Italian seasoning)
- Beans (black-eyed peas or any bean of your choice)
Directions
- In a large pot, sauté the mirepoix (onion, celery, carrots) in olive oil until softened.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
- Stir in potatoes, diced tomatoes, corn, broth, and spices.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Total Time: 30 minutes (prep: 10 minutes, cook: 20 minutes)
Variations
- Vegetables: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Beans: Use black beans, kidney beans, or chili beans for variety.
- Spicy: Add hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
- Low-Carb: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lower-carb version.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover Cowboy Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight and heat it on the stove or in the microwave.
FAQs
Can I make this soup in the crockpot?
Yes, brown the meat on the stove and then cook the soup on low for 5-6 hours or high for 6-8 hours in the slow cooker.
Can I add more vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Add any veggies you like, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy?
Simmer the soup just until the potatoes are fork-tender. Overcooking can cause them to break down.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup gets even better after sitting overnight. Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Can I use a different type of meat?
You can swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for different flavors.
How can I thicken the soup?
If you want a thicker consistency, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup, or add some cornstarch slurry.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?
Yes, vegetable broth can be used for a lighter, vegetarian option.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, let it cool completely before freezing in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with cornbread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Can I add cheese on top?
Yes, grated cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack makes a great topping for extra flavor.
Conclusion
This Cowboy Soup is an easy, filling, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a soup to serve to guests, this recipe fits the bill. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Print
Cowboy Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This hearty Cowboy Soup is a flavorful, filling dish that combines ground beef, vegetables, and a savory broth. Packed with protein and packed with Tex-Mex seasonings, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Quick to make and even better as leftovers, this comforting soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Mirepoix (onion, celery, carrots)
- Yukon gold or baby red potatoes
- Diced tomatoes
- Corn (canned or fresh)
- Beef broth or bone broth
- Spices: smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, Italian seasoning
- Beans (black-eyed peas or your choice of beans)
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté the mirepoix (onion, celery, carrots) in olive oil until softened.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
- Stir in potatoes, diced tomatoes, corn, broth, and spices.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra nutrients, add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- For a spicier kick, add hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute potatoes with cauliflower for a low-carb version.
- Prep Time: 10 minute
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup, Tex-Mex, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
