There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort on a chilly evening. The Cowboy Soup Recipe is more than just a meal—it’s an invitation to gather around the table, share stories, and enjoy hearty flavors with family and friends. Packed with ground beef, vegetables, and bold spices, this one-pot wonder is as satisfying as it is simple to make.

Why You’ll Love Cowboy Soup

This soup is the perfect combination of rich, savory flavors and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping meals for the week, Cowboy Soup is a versatile dish that’s easy to customize. Plus, it’s made in one pot, which means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Lean ground beef (95%)	1 pound
Chili powder	1/2 tablespoon
Cumin	1/2 tablespoon
Garlic powder	1 teaspoon
Onion powder	1 teaspoon
Seasoned pinto beans (canned)	15 ounces
Diced tomatoes with green chile (canned)	10 ounces
Russet potatoes (peeled, diced 1 inch)	2
Frozen mixed vegetables	8 ounces
Frozen whole-kernel corn	8 ounces
Beef broth	3–4 cups

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef

Heat an 8-quart Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until the meat is browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

2. Add the Remaining Ingredients

Once the meat is browned, add the canned pinto beans, diced tomatoes with green chiles, diced potatoes, frozen mixed vegetables, frozen corn, and beef broth to the pot.
Stir everything together to combine the flavors.

3. Bring to a Boil

Turn the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil.

4. Simmer and Cook

Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
Stir occasionally and check the potatoes to ensure they’re tender.

5. Season and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve it hot.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Layers of Flavor

The combination of spices, beans, and tomatoes creates a rich, bold base, while the potatoes and vegetables add substance and texture.

2. One-Pot Convenience

Everything cooks in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze.

3. Balanced Nutrition

With lean protein, hearty vegetables, and fiber-rich beans, this soup is as nutritious as it is filling.

Serving Suggestions

Cowboy Soup is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with a few simple additions:

Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread is the perfect accompaniment to soak up the broth.
Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese over the top for a creamy finish.
Crushed Tortilla Chips: Add a crunchy element by garnishing with tortilla chips.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream balances the spices with a tangy touch.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320
Protein	20g
Total Fat	8g
Saturated Fat	3g
Cholesterol	45mg
Sodium	720mg
Total Carbohydrates	40g
Fiber	8g
Sugars	5g

Tips for the Best Cowboy Soup

Use Fresh Potatoes: Freshly peeled and diced russet potatoes cook evenly and hold their shape better in the soup.
Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Frozen vegetables cook quickly, so avoid simmering for too long to maintain their texture.
Customize the Broth: For a thicker soup, use 3 cups of beef broth. For a thinner consistency, add up to 4 cups.
Adjust the Spice Level: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld.

FAQs About Cowboy Soup

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles can be substituted for ground beef.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

3. Can I freeze Cowboy Soup?

Absolutely. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh vegetables like carrots, green beans, and peas work well. Adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re tender.

5. How do I thicken the soup?

For a thicker consistency, mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water.

6. What can I use instead of beef broth?

Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used as a substitute, though the flavor profile may vary slightly.

Conclusion

The Cowboy Soup Recipe is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. With its simple ingredients and one-pot preparation, it’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this soup is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

So, grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and whip up this easy, delicious soup today. Your taste buds will thank you!