When you’re craving something filling, flavorful, and comforting, cowboy soup is a perfect choice. Yes, you can make cowboy soup at home, and it’s easier than you might think. This dish is a hearty blend of ground beef, beans, mixed vegetables, and a rich broth that gives it that warm, comforting Tex-Mex flair.
I’ve been making this soup for years, and it’s my go-to recipe for family gatherings and cold winter nights. The beauty of cowboy soup lies in its simplicity—it requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re using a slow cooker, crock pot, or an Instant Pot, this recipe can easily fit into your busy schedule.
Cowboy Soup Recipe – The Ultimate Hearty Meal
Cowboy soup is a savory mix of beef, beans, vegetables, and spices simmered together to create a hearty, flavorful meal. This dish is loved for its rustic flavors and versatility. Whether you’re feeding hungry cowboys after a long day or just whipping up a weeknight meal, this soup will hit the spot. The ingredients are basic, but the flavors are anything but. With smoky chipotle, tangy tomatoes, and earthy beans, every spoonful is packed with rich taste.
Ingredients for Cowboy Soup
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground beef (lean) | 1 lb |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Green chiles (diced) | 1 can (4 oz) |
| Ranch style beans (canned) | 2 cans (15 oz) |
| Pinto beans (canned) | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Corn (canned or frozen) | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Diced tomatoes (canned) | 1 can (14 oz) |
| Tomato sauce | 1 can (8 oz) |
| Beef broth | 2 cups |
| Chili powder | 2 tbsp |
| Cumin | 1 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
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Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cowboy Soup
Preparing the Ingredients
Start by prepping your ingredients. Chop the onions and garlic, and make sure your canned items are ready to go. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Brown the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Once the beef is cooked through, add the onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
Adding Vegetables and Beans
Now, it’s time to add the diced tomatoes, green chiles, corn, pinto beans, and ranch-style beans to the pot. Stir everything together, and then pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce. Add the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer over medium heat for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Cowboy Soup in a Crock Pot or Slow Cooker
If you want to set it and forget it, this cowboy soup recipe works great in a crock pot or slow cooker. After browning the beef, transfer all the ingredients into your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The long, slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop even more, resulting in a rich and hearty soup.
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Customizing Your Cowboy Soup
One of the best things about cowboy soup is how versatile it is. You can easily customize it to your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Add Some Spice
If you’re a fan of heat, consider adding chipotle in adobo sauce or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce. You can also sprinkle in cajun seasoning or add extra chili powder for an extra kick.
Swap the Protein
While ground beef is the traditional choice, you can also use ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even chorizo to change things up. These proteins bring their own unique flavors to the dish while keeping it hearty and satisfying.
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Storing and Freezing Cowboy Soup
One of the great things about cowboy soup is that it stores well. If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, let the soup cool completely and transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers. Frozen cowboy soup will last for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
FAQs About Cowboy Soup Recipe
Can I make cowboy soup in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can! Brown the beef using the sauté function, then add all other ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, and allow for a natural release.
What toppings can I add to cowboy soup?
Great toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or tortilla strips for added crunch.
Can I use frozen vegetables in cowboy soup?
Yes, frozen vegetables work just as well. Just add them to the soup in the same step as canned vegetables.
What type of beans are best for cowboy soup?
Pinto beans and ranch style beans are traditional, but you can also use black beans or kidney beans for a twist.
Is cowboy soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as the canned ingredients and spices you use are gluten-free certified.
Conclusion – Why Cowboy Soup is a Must-Try Recipe
Cowboy soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience of rustic flavors and hearty goodness that brings people together. The combination of ground beef, beans, and vegetables simmered in a rich broth is comforting and perfect for any time of year. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a satisfying weeknight meal, this cowboy soup recipe will not disappoint. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and bold flavors make it a staple in my kitchen—and it can easily become one in yours too.
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