Crockpot Cowboy Soup: A Hearty and Flavorful One-Pot Meal

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting, and easy-to-make meal, Crockpot Cowboy Soup is the perfect recipe! Packed with ground beef, potatoes, beans, corn, and tomatoes, this soup is a hearty, flavorful, and nutritious dish that will satisfy the whole family. The best part? Your slow cooker does all the work! Simply toss in the ingredients, let it simmer, and enjoy a delicious, homemade meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing meals for the week, this recipe is a go-to favorite for busy days.

What is Cowboy Soup?

Cowboy Soup is a rustic, Southern-inspired dish that’s packed with protein, fiber, and bold flavors. Traditionally, it includes ground beef, vegetables, and canned goods that make it both affordable and filling. The dish gets its name from its hearty and nourishing ingredients, which were ideal for cowboys on the trail. Today, it’s a staple in many homes, loved for its simplicity, rich taste, and versatility.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it’s effortless to make—the slow cooker does all the work for you! It’s hearty and satisfying, packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients to keep you full and energized. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, using affordable pantry staples that make it a great option for any meal. This dish is also perfect for meal prep, as it stores well and tastes even better the next day. Best of all, it’s highly customizable, allowing you to easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
• 1 bay leaf

Optional Garnishes:

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped green onions
• Sour cream
• Crushed tortilla chips

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.

2. Drain excess grease and transfer beef to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

3. In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion until translucent (about 3 minutes).

4. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Transfer onion and garlic to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables & Broth

6. Add potatoes, carrots, corn, kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes, and Rotel tomatoes to the slow cooker.

7. Pour in the beef broth, then stir in Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

8. Add bay leaf for extra flavor.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Soup

9. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes and carrots are tender.

Step 5: Final Touches & Serve

10. Remove the bay leaf and stir in hot sauce if desired.

11. Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Fiber: 8g
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 780mg

Serving Size and Prep Time

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (LOW) or 3-4 hours (HIGH)
• Total Time: Up to 8 hours 15 minutes

Tips for the Best Crockpot Cowboy Soup

For the best Crockpot Cowboy Soup, enhance the flavor by browning the beef and sautéing the onions before adding them to the slow cooker. If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash some of the potatoes and beans before serving. To add a kick of heat, spice it up with extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños. For a smoky depth, stir in a splash of liquid smoke or use fire-roasted tomatoes. Complete your meal by pairing it with cornbread, biscuits, or a crusty baguette for an extra hearty and satisfying dish.

Variations & Substitutions

• Turkey Version: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey.
• Vegetarian: Omit the meat and add extra beans or lentils.
• Low-Carb: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets.
• Extra Hearty: Stir in cooked rice or pasta before serving.

Wine & Beverage Pairing

Pair this bold, hearty soup with a full-bodied red wine like Zinfandel or Cabernet Sauvignon. If you prefer beer, a dark stout or amber ale complements the flavors beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup on the stovetop?

Yes! Simmer everything in a large pot for about 45 minutes to an hour until the vegetables are tender.

Can I add pasta to this soup?

Absolutely! Stir in cooked pasta like elbow macaroni or small shells before serving.

What’s the best way to thicken the soup?

Mash some potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) and let it simmer for a few minutes.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Cowboy Soup is the ultimate comfort food—easy to make, rich in flavor, and perfect for meal prepping. Whether you’re serving it for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy the bold flavors of the Wild West in a bowl!

Did you make this recipe? Let us know in the comments below and share your favorite cowboy soup additions!

Print