Step-By-Step Guide to Preparing Hearty Cowboy Soup
Cowboy soup is a rich, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings comfort to your table. With its blend of hearty ingredients like beef, beans, vegetables, and bold seasonings, it’s the perfect meal for chilly days or when you’re craving something warm and nourishing. Here’s a comprehensive guide to making this delightful soup from scratch.
Preparation Overview
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Calories: 302 kcal per serving
Ingredients You’ll Need
Base Ingredients:
1 onion, finely chopped: The onion adds depth and a hint of sweetness to the soup.
4 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic essence.
4 cups beef broth: The savory base that ties all the flavors together.
Hearty Additions
1 can pinto beans (15 oz), rinsed and drained: These beans add a creamy texture and protein boost.
1 14 oz can diced tomatoes, drained: Tomatoes bring tanginess and a vibrant red hue.
2 cups potatoes, chopped into bite-sized pieces: Potatoes provide substance and make the soup filling.
1 4 oz can diced green chiles: These chiles add a subtle kick and southwestern flair.
Protein and Veggies
1 lb ground beef: A classic choice for hearty soups, it adds richness and protein.
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables: A colorful medley that includes peas, carrots, and green beans.
1 cup frozen corn: Sweet and tender corn kernels elevate the texture.
Seasonings
2 teaspoons chili powder: Brings a bold, smoky heat.
1 teaspoon cumin: Adds a warm, earthy undertone.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing flavors.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepping the Crockpot (Optional)
For an effortless cleanup, consider lining your crockpot with a disposable plastic liner. This step is entirely optional but can save time during cleanup.
Step 2: Cooking the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into small crumbles with a spatula.
Once fully browned, drain any excess grease to reduce fat content.
Transfer the cooked beef to the crockpot.
Step 3: Building the Soup Base
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the crockpot with the beef.
Pour in the beef broth, ensuring it covers the ingredients evenly.
Stir in the pinto beans, diced tomatoes, and green chiles.
Step 4: Incorporating Vegetables
Add the chopped potatoes, frozen mixed vegetables, and frozen corn to the mix.
These veggies bring both nutrition and vibrant colors to the soup.
Step 5: Adding the Seasonings
Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper over the ingredients.
Stir thoroughly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 6: Cooking the Soup
Cover the crockpot with its lid.
Set it to low heat and cook for 2-3 hours or choose high heat for a shorter cooking time of 1-2 hours.
For deeper flavor, opt for the longer cooking time.
Step 7: Final Adjustments
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder based on your preference.
Step 8: Serving Suggestions
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with optional toppings such as:
Shredded cheese
A dollop of sour cream
Chopped green onions
A dash of hot sauce for added heat
Tips for Success
Fresh vs. Frozen Vegetables: While frozen vegetables are convenient, fresh veggies can also be used. If using fresh, consider adding an extra cup of beef broth to ensure the soup has enough liquid.
Canned Vegetables: If you opt for canned veggies, no additional liquid is needed as they already contain some.
Customizing the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and green chiles to suit your heat tolerance.
Quick Cowboy Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
1 onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups beef broth
1 can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 14 oz can diced tomatoes, drained
2 cups chopped potatoes
1 4 oz can diced green chiles
1 lb ground beef
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
1 cup frozen corn
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
(Optional) Line the crockpot with a plastic liner for easy cleanup.
In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess grease and transfer to the crockpot.
Add onion, garlic, beef broth, pinto beans, tomatoes, potatoes, green chiles, mixed vegetables, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or hot sauce as desired.
