Cowboy Soup Recipe
If you’re searching for a hearty, one-pot wonder that brings everyone running to the table, look no further than this Cowboy Soup Recipe. Packed with savory ground beef, wholesome beans, zesty tomatoes, and a melody of spices, it’s a comforting staple that’s big on both flavor and Texas-sized personality. Not only does it come together quickly with pantry-friendly ingredients, but you’ll love how this dish lights up a weeknight and feeds a hungry crowd with ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cowboy Soup Recipe keeps things simple and satisfying with ingredients you probably have on hand. Each ingredient does its part—bringing bold color, rich flavor, or that classic comfort-food warmth to every spoonful.
- Ground Beef (1 pound): The foundation of this soup, it adds deep, savory flavor and satisfying heartiness.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Essential for sweet undertones and great aroma—dice it small so it melts right in.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): A must for that irresistible, robust base flavor.
- Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 15 oz, with juices): Bring tang and body, plus a bright pop of red color.
- Corn (1 can, 15 oz, drained): Adds just the right touch of sweetness and golden color.
- Pinto Beans (1 can, 15 oz, drained & rinsed): Creamy, earthy, and protein-packed for amazing texture.
- Kidney Beans (1 can, 15 oz, drained & rinsed): These add a beautiful rich color and satisfying bite.
- Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles (1 can, 10 oz): Amp up the flavor with juicy tomatoes and a mild kick.
- Beef Broth (2 cups): Ties everything together for deep, craveable flavor.
- Chili Powder (1 teaspoon): Warmth and depth—the backbone of that cowboy flair.
- Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon): Adds an earthy, Southwestern note in every bite.
- Paprika (½ teaspoon): For subtle smokiness and a gentle spice lift.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Let the flavors shine through by seasoning at the finish.
- Optional Toppings (shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions): Finish with creamy, cheesy, or fresh toppings for a meal that hits every note.
How to Make Cowboy Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by grabbing a large pot or a Dutch oven—this is your trusty stew sidekick! Set it over medium heat and add your ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and no pink remains. Drain off any excess grease for a lighter, cleaner soup.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
With the beef still in the pot, add your diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes, just until the onion softens and turns fragrant. This step lays down a rich, aromatic foundation for your Cowboy Soup Recipe.
Step 3: Add Veggies and Beans
Time to add all that chunky, hearty goodness! Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), the can of sweet corn, both pinto and kidney beans (remember to rinse and drain them), and the can of diced tomatoes with green chiles. These layers bring color, texture, and tons of flavor.
Step 4: Incorporate Broth and Spices
Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle in your chili powder, cumin, paprika, plus a pinch each of salt and pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly so the spices can mingle with all those fabulous ingredients.
Step 5: Simmer and Blend Flavors
Bring your soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes. This bubbling stage is where the magic happens—everything melds and develops a rich, satisfying flavor. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasonings if you like a touch more spice or salt.
Step 6: Serve Hot with Toppings
Ladle the piping-hot Cowboy Soup Recipe into bowls. Top each serving with your favorite garnishes, like shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh chopped green onions, and watch it disappear!
How to Serve Cowboy Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes take this humble soup from everyday delicious to absolutely crave-worthy. Try a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar, a spoonful of sour cream to cool things down, or a handful of sliced green onions for a pop of fresh flavor and color. If you’re feeling bold, add a few jalapeño slices for extra kick!
Side Dishes
This Cowboy Soup Recipe is a meal on its own, but it loves good company! Serve it alongside warm, buttery cornbread, a slice of crusty baguette, or salty tortilla chips for dipping. Looking for something lighter? Pair it with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette.
Creative Ways to Present
Let your culinary imagination run wild! Ladle the soup into bread bowls for a rustic, show-stopping presentation at parties or game days. For a casual family night, set up a “soup bar” with all the toppings so everyone can build their own perfect bowl of Cowboy Soup Recipe. It’s also wonderful served in mugs for cozy nights by the fire.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers? Cowboy Soup Recipe just gets better overnight! Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. It will stay fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for up to four days, giving you lunches or quick dinners all week.
Freezing
This soup is a freezer favorite. Pour cooled Cowboy Soup Recipe into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little space for expansion. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready for an easy, comforting meal on a chilly night.
Reheating
Reheat Cowboy Soup Recipe gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. If you’re in a hurry, microwave individual bowls in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to restore its original, brothy consistency.
FAQs
Can I make Cowboy Soup Recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Simply brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, and you’ll have a delicious bowl of comfort waiting for you.
How can I make Cowboy Soup Recipe spicier?
If you want to turn up the heat, add a pinch of cayenne, extra diced green chiles, or even a splash of your favorite hot sauce. You’re in charge of the spice level, so make it as wild as you like!
Are there other beans I can use?
Definitely! Feel free to swap or combine the pinto and kidney beans with black beans, cannellini beans, or navy beans. This soup is wonderfully versatile, so use what you have.
Is Cowboy Soup Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you double-check that all your canned goods and seasonings are gluten-free (they usually are, but it’s always smart to check labels).
Can I add extra veggies to this recipe?
Of course! Diced potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, and green beans are popular add-ins. Not only will they bulk out your soup, but they’ll also add even more nutrition and color.
Final Thoughts
There’s something special about cooking up a big batch of Cowboy Soup Recipe and sharing it with people you care about. It’s one of those feel-good meals that brings warmth and joy to any table, any season. Give it a try—your next favorite weeknight dinner is just a ladle away!
Print
Cowboy Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cowboy Soup recipe is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for chilly days. Packed with ground beef, beans, and flavorful spices, it’s a satisfying one-pot meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 can (15 oz) corn (drained)
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles (like Rotel)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add Aromatics: Add the diced onion and garlic, sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onion is soft.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes, corn, pinto beans, kidney beans, and tomatoes with green chiles. Pour in the beef broth and add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes to blend flavors.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with optional toppings.
Notes
- You can add diced potatoes or green beans for extra heartiness.
- To make it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne or more green chiles.
- This soup also works well in a slow cooker—just brown the beef first.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
