Description
A hearty, comforting soup packed with beans, potatoes, corn, and savory ground beef. This rustic, old-fashioned cowboy soup brings the flavors of the American West to your kitchen. Perfect for family dinners or chilly nights, it can also be adapted to creamy, cheesy, or vegetarian versions.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (serves 6–8):
For the Soup:
1 lb ground beef (or plant-based substitute for vegetarian)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups diced potatoes
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups beef or vegetable broth
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp ground cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste
1–2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Optional for Creamy/Cheesy Version:
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup heavy cream or milk
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Meat
Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Beans
Add diced potatoes, corn, black beans, kidney beans, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
Pour in broth, then add chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25–30 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Optional Creamy Twist
For creamy or cheesy cowboy soup, stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Heat gently until cheese melts and soup is creamy.
Step 5: Serve
Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, shredded cheese, or croutons if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Notes
- Vegetarian Version: Replace beef with extra beans or lentils. Use vegetable broth.
- Make Ahead: Soup tastes even better the next day. Refrigerate up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Spice Variation: Add diced green chilies or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Category: Soup / Comfort Food
- Method: Stove-top / Simmered
- Cuisine: American / Western