Slow Cooker Cowboy Soup Recipe

Slow Cooker Cowboy Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cold winter days. Packed with ground beef, beans, vegetables, and spices, this soup is filling and full of flavor. Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it do all the work while you go about your day. This easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Tips & Notes
• Variations
• FAQs
• Serving Suggestions
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup chopped potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Broth

1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and chopped potatoes to the slow cooker.
2. Stir to combine all the ingredients.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

1. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the flavors are well combined.

Step 4: Serve

1. Stir the soup well before serving. Ladle into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings.
2. Serve warm and enjoy the hearty, comforting flavors of Cowboy Soup.

Cooking Tips & Notes

• Ground Beef: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• Beans: Feel free to use any type of beans you like, such as pinto beans or cannellini beans, depending on your preference.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder or add cayenne pepper for a spicier version of this soup.
• Vegetables: You can add more vegetables, such as chopped bell peppers or carrots, to make this soup even heartier.

Variations

• Cheesy Cowboy Soup: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese just before serving for a cheesy twist.
• Creamy Version: Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream or sour cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a creamy version.
• Vegetarian Cowboy Soup: Omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Add an extra can of beans for more protein.
• Tex-Mex Cowboy Soup: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground coriander and a squeeze of lime juice for a Tex-Mex flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

2. How Do I Store Leftover Soup?

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

3. Can I Freeze Cowboy Soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Substitute the canned diced tomatoes with about 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes. Keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different.

Serving Suggestions

• Tortilla Chips: Serve with tortilla chips for dipping or crumbling on top.
• Bread: Pair with a side of crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Toppings: Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro for added flavor.
• Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

Slow Cooker Cowboy Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. With its mix of ground beef, beans, vegetables, and spices, this soup is both filling and delicious. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold day or serving it at a gathering, this soup is sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the comforting flavors of Cowboy Soup, made effortlessly in your slow cooker!