After a long day or a chilly evening, there’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of cowboy soup to warm the soul. This dish, with its robust flavors and comforting textures, is perfect for gathering friends and family around the table. Recently, I made a batch of cowboy soup that not only filled my home with enticing aromas but also satisfied everyone’s hunger. The best part? It’s an easy, one-pot wonder that you can whip up in about 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings, this soup is likely to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Cowboy soup is a delightful blend of ground beef, vegetables, and beans, simmered together in a savory broth. The combination of ingredients creates a hearty and wholesome meal that’s packed with flavor. It’s great for sharing and can be easily adapted or topped with your favorite garnishes, making it ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or adventurous palates, this dish has something for everyone.
Why you’ll love this
- Quick preparation: Ready in about 30 minutes.
- Flavorful and satisfying: A perfect balance of savory and hearty.
- Fewer dishes: One pot, minimal cleanup.
- Make-ahead friendly: Tastes even better the next day.
- Freezer-friendly: Saves well for future meals.
"Tastes incredible and so simple to make."
Step-by-step overview
The magic of cowboy soup happens in a single pot. Start by heating olive oil in a Dutch oven and sautéing onions and celery until soft. Then, add minced garlic and browned ground beef. Mix everything together with potatoes, carrots, beans, tomatoes, and spices, adding beef broth to create a rich, flavorful base. Once it simmers, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to serve.
What you’ll need
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 3 stalks celery (diced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 lb Yukon gold potatoes (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 4 carrots (peeled and sliced)
- 1 can green beans (drained)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 can black-eyed peas (drained)
- 1 can corn (drained)
- 4-6 cups beef broth
- Italian seasoning
- Smoked paprika
- Chili powder
- Salt
- Pepper
Ingredient notes & swaps:
- Ground beef: Lean ground turkey can be used for a lighter version.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Broth: Use chicken or vegetable broth for a different flavor.
- Canned items: Rinse beans to reduce sodium.
How to make it
To enjoy a delightful cowboy soup, follow these simple steps:
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced onion and celery; sauté until soft, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef, cooking until browned with no pink remaining.
- Mix in diced potatoes, sliced carrots, drained green beans, tomato paste, diced tomatoes (with juices), black-eyed peas, corn, and 4 cups of beef broth.
- Season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer for 14-16 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving hot with your choice of toppings.
Pro Tip: Make sure to pat your ground beef dry before browning for a better sear and deeper flavor.
- The soup should be thick and hearty, with tender potatoes and vibrant vegetables throughout. You’ll notice the savory aroma filling your kitchen as it simmers.
Helping hints
- Use a wooden spoon to break up the ground beef for even cooking.
- Experiment with spices: add cayenne pepper for heat or cumin for an earthy depth.
- If the soup thickens too much, simply add more broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Serving it with crusty bread or cornbread can add that final touch of comfort.
Best ways to enjoy it
Cowboy soup can be served as a standalone dish or paired with crusty bread. Top each bowl with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or chopped fresh cilantro to enhance the flavor. It also goes well with a side salad or chips for a complete meal experience.
How to store & freeze
Leftover cowboy soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer, making it perfect for meal prepping. When reheating, be sure to warm it thoroughly until steaming hot.
If the soup contains ground beef, refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.
How to fix common issues
- Too bland: Add more salt, chili powder, or a splash of hot sauce to amp up the flavors.
- Dry meat: Ensure you add enough liquid if the soup thickens too much.
- Soggy vegetables: Avoid overcooking, and add hearty vegetables like potatoes first to maintain their texture.
- Separation: Stir well before serving, and reheat gently.
Creative twists
Feel free to customize this soup by adding different spices or proteins. For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with lentils or more beans. You can also toss in fresh herbs, spinach, or other seasonal vegetables to keep it fresh with each season.
Common questions
What’s the best way to reheat cowboy soup?
Reheat cowboy soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. You can also use the microwave in increments, ensuring it’s steaming hot before enjoying it again.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To enhance the spice level, add chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce while cooking. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.
Can I make cowboy soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and add the broth. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for a flavorful rendition.
What can I use instead of beef broth?
Chicken or vegetable broth works as an excellent alternative if you’re looking for lighter flavor. In a pinch, water with a seasoning blend can also suffice.
Is this soup gluten-free?
As long as you check the labels on the canned items like beans and tomatoes, cowboy soup can easily be made gluten-free. Use gluten-free broth and ensure that all spices are gluten-free.
Cowboy soup is not only a satisfying meal but also a comforting experience that resonates with warmth and community. Once you try this recipe, it may just find its way into your regular meal rotation. Enjoy bringing together flavors that are as bold and exciting as the wild west spirit it pays homage to.
Cowboy Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced onion and celery; sauté until soft, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef, cooking until browned with no pink remaining.
- Mix in diced potatoes, sliced carrots, drained green beans, tomato paste, diced tomatoes (with juices), black-eyed peas, corn, and 4 cups of beef broth.
- Season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer for 14-16 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving hot with your choice of toppings.