Cowboy soup is a hearty dish packed with flavor, perfect for chilly nights when you crave something warm and comforting. With its robust combination of ground beef, beans, and vegetables, this soup embodies the spirit of the South and West. I have fond memories of making this recipe on cozy family nights—there’s something incredibly satisfying about serving a pot of steaming soup that nourishes both the body and soul. It’s a simple recipe that delivers bold flavors without the fuss.
Why you’ll love this dish
This cowboy soup is not just any ordinary dish—it’s a versatile and satisfying meal that can easily become a weekly staple. Here are a few reasons you should consider whipping this up at home:
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners after a long day.
- Budget-Friendly: Made primarily with pantry staples and affordable ingredients, it’s a great option for families looking to stretch their grocery budget.
- Kid-Approved: Packed with colorful vegetables and rich flavors, even picky eaters will fall in love with a warm bowl of this soup.
- Versatile: Serve it as a filling main course or alongside crusty bread for dipping.
“I made this cowboy soup last week, and my family couldn’t get enough! It was easy to make and tasted incredible. Definitely a new favorite!”
The cooking process explained
Making cowboy soup is a straightforward process. It begins with browning the ground beef, infusing the pot with delicious flavors, and ends with everything simmering to develop a rich, comforting broth. Here’s a glimpse at how this recipe comes together:
- Start by browning the ground beef with spices to build a flavorful foundation.
- Once the beef is nicely brown, add the remaining ingredients to the pot.
- Bring it to a boil, then let it simmer until the potatoes are tender.
- Finally, season to taste before enjoying!
What you’ll need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step towards creating this delicious cowboy soup. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound of lean ground beef (95%)
- 1/2 tablespoon chili powder
- 1/2 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 (15 oz) can of seasoned pinto beans (like ranch beans or seasoned chili beans)
- 1 (10 oz) can of diced tomatoes with green chile peppers (like Ro-tel)
- 2 russet potatoes, peeled and diced (1-inch)
- 8 oz frozen mixed vegetables
- 8 oz frozen whole-kernel corn
- 3-4 cups beef broth
(Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, and swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand!)
