Cowboy Soup is a hearty and filling bowl loaded with beans, ground beef, tomatoes, and plenty of spices that give it a nice kick. It’s the kind of soup that feels warm and welcoming, perfect for chilly days or anytime you need something comforting. The mix of beans and meat gives it a great texture, and the flavors blend together in a way that really sticks with you.
I love making Cowboy Soup when I want a meal that’s simple but packs a punch. It’s one of those recipes you throw together with pantry staples, and it always turns out great. I like to add a little extra chili powder or a splash of hot sauce to make it just right for my taste, but you can easily adjust the spice level to suit your family’s preferences.
One of my favorite ways to serve Cowboy Soup is with a piece of crusty bread or some cornbread on the side. It makes the meal feel complete and is perfect for dipping. Whenever I make this soup, it always brings back memories of cozy family dinners and easy weekend nights, when everyone gathers around the table to enjoy something warm and satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This is the heart of the soup, adding rich flavor and protein. You can swap it for ground turkey or plant-based ground meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Beans: Kidney and pinto beans bring texture and fiber. Feel free to use black beans or cannellini beans if you prefer, or use canned beans for quick prep.
Potatoes: Potatoes add body and a comforting bite. Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well. For a low-carb option, swap in diced cauliflower.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano create the signature flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a pinch of chipotle powder works well.
Vegetables: Onion, garlic, green bell pepper, and corn bring freshness and sweetness. You can add extra veggies like carrots or celery if you like.
How Can I Make Sure the Ground Beef Cooks Perfectly Without Getting Greasy?
Cooking the ground beef right is key to a good Cowboy Soup. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Heat the oil first, then add onions and garlic to build flavor before the beef.
- Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Cook over medium heat until fully browned and no pink remains.
- Drain off excess fat to keep the soup from being greasy.
- Return the pot to heat to toast spices in the beef’s flavor before adding liquids.
This method helps you get lean, flavorful beef without extra grease, setting a great base for the whole soup.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large heavy-bottomed pot – I prefer it because it heats evenly and prevents sticking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – perfect for stirring and breaking up the beef as it cooks.
- Knife and cutting board – essential for chopping onions, garlic, peppers, and potatoes.
- Can opener – for opening the beans, tomatoes, and corn.
- Measuring spoons – for spices to keep everything balanced.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner soup.
- Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to spice it up.
- Stir in chopped fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime before serving for extra flavor.
- Swap the potatoes for diced sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness.
How to Make Cowboy Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
Spices and Others:
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This soup takes about 10 minutes to prep your ingredients, about 40 minutes to cook, including browning the beef and simmering to tender potatoes. All together, plan on roughly 50 minutes to have this warm and tasty soup ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Then add minced garlic, cooking for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant and fills your kitchen with a wonderful smell.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot. Use a spoon or spatula to break it apart and cook until it’s completely browned and no pink remains. If there’s any excess fat, carefully drain it off to keep the soup light and tasty.
3. Season and Toast Spices:
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well and cook for about 1 minute to help the spices release their flavors into the beef.
4. Add Vegetables, Beans, and Broth:
Pour in the diced potatoes, green bell pepper, canned diced tomatoes with their juices, kidney beans, pinto beans, and beef broth. Stir gently to blend all the ingredients together.
5. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 25 to 30 minutes. This lets the potatoes cook through and the flavors marry together nicely.
6. Add Corn and Final Seasoning:
About 5 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the frozen corn kernels. Taste your soup and add any extra salt, pepper, or chili powder you like.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls, sprinkle some fresh parsley or cilantro on top if you like, and enjoy! Pair it with some crusty bread or cornbread for a comforting, filling meal that will warm you right up.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for Cowboy Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Cooking thawed beef helps it brown evenly and prevents excess moisture in the soup.
Can I Make Cowboy Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Cowboy Soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Let it cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in a sealed airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months—just cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Definitely! Feel free to add more chili powder, a pinch of cayenne, or some chopped jalapeños for extra heat. If you prefer it milder, reduce or omit the chili powder and smoked paprika. Adjust seasonings to suit your taste.
