Cowboy Soup

Introduction

Cowboy soup is a heartwarming dish brimming with flavor and comfort. This rich, savory soup combines ground beef, vegetables, and spices to create a satisfying meal for everyone. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, cowboy soup is the answer. Packed with wholesome ingredients and a hint of spice, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: This soup comes together in just over half an hour.
Simple Ingredients: No fancy or hard-to-find items; just good, wholesome foods.
Perfect for Family Meals: Gather loved ones around for a filling, nutritious meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy dinner.
Unbelievably Delicious: A wonderful balance of flavors makes every bite a delight.

Cowboy soup stands out because of its perfect combination of tender vegetables and ground beef, all simmered in a savory broth. It’s comfort food at its best, bringing warmth and satisfaction.

Ingredients Needed

For the Base:2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 stalks celery, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 lbs ground beef
For the Vegetables:1 lb Yukon gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces
4 carrots, peeled and sliced
1 can green beans, drained
1 can diced tomatoes with juices
1 can black-eyed peas, drained
1 can corn, drained
For the Broth:4-6 cups beef broth
For Seasoning:3 tablespoons tomato paste
Italian seasoning
Smoked paprika
Chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Cowboy Soup

Prepare the Pot: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and celery. Sauté until they soften, about 5 minutes. This step builds a tasty foundation for the soup.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. No pink should remain.
Mix in Ingredients: Stir in the Yukon gold potatoes, sliced carrots, green beans, diced tomatoes, black-eyed peas, corn, tomato paste, and 4 cups of beef broth. Mix well to combine.
Season: Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust these to your taste.
Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 14-16 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Check the Seasoning: Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings!

How to Serve Cowboy Soup

Serve cowboy soup with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for an extra filling meal. Top with fresh herbs, cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and a beautiful presentation.

How to Store Cowboy Soup

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat or microwave until hot.

Tips to Make Cowboy Soup

Customize: Feel free to add any other vegetables you love, such as green peppers or zucchini.
Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder for a kick.
Freezer-Friendly: This soup freezes well! Portion it into containers and freeze for up to 3 months.

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Ground chicken or turkey can be used as a lighter alternative.

How thick should the soup be?

The soup should have a hearty consistency but can be adjusted by adding more or less broth based on preference.

Can I freeze cowboy soup?

Absolutely! It freezes well. Just cool it down completely before transferring to airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Cowboy soup is a simple, delicious dish that will warm your heart and fill your belly. With its easy preparation and comforting flavors, it’s the perfect recipe for any occasion. If you give this recipe a try, please leave a comment and a star rating. We’d love to hear how it turned out! What variations did you try? Let us know below, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends on social media!