Cowboy Soup is a delightful dish that brings the essence of the wild west right to your kitchen! Imagine a warm, hearty bowl filled with tender ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and flavorful spices. The combination of rich ingredients creates a colorful medley that is both comforting and satisfying. This rustic soup is perfect for cozy family dinners or gathering friends around the table for a casual meal. It’s sure to be a hit at potlucks or outdoor cookouts!
As you prepare this dish, your kitchen will fill with mouthwatering aromas that make it hard to resist. The beef broth, combined with the fresh veggies and well-balanced seasoning, creates a rich flavor that dances on your palate. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to make Cowboy Soup happen. From easy preparation steps to tips for serving, let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: Each bowl is packed with wholesome veggies and lean protein.
- Ease of Preparation: This recipe is straightforward and quick, perfect for a weeknight meal.
- Nutrition: Loaded with vitamins and minerals, it’s a healthy option for everyone.
- Versatility: Customize it with your choice of spices and toppings!
- Presentation: Bright colors make it visually appealing and inviting at the table.
You’re sure to love every aspect of Cowboy Soup!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 40-50 minutes
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Note that times may vary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 3 stalks celery (diced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 lb Yukon gold potatoes (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 4 carrots (peeled and sliced into rounds)
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can green beans (drained)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 (15-ounce) can black-eyed peas (drained and rinsed)
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn (drained)
- 4-6 cups beef broth
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste
- Toppings as desired
How to Make Cowboy Soup
- Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion and celery, cooking for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the ground beef and brown it until no pink remains.
- Mix in the rest of the ingredients, spices, and 4 cups of beef broth until combined.
- Add up to 2 cups more broth to reach the desired consistency.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 14-16 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve hot with desired toppings.
How to Serve
- Presentation: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs.
- Accompaniments: Serve with crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the delicious broth.
- Portions: This recipe makes plenty, so divide it into large servings for everyone to enjoy.
- Beverage Pairing: Complement with a refreshing iced tea or a light beer.
Your serving will surely impress everyone!
Additional Tips
- Flavor Enhancement: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
- Customization: Feel free to swap out vegetables for those you prefer or have on hand.
- Serving Suggestions: Top with shredded cheese, diced avocado, or sour cream for extra creaminess.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Cowboy Soup: Increase the chili powder and add jalapeños for a kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with lentils or black beans for a plant-based option.
- Slow Cooker Method: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Keep leftover soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For best results, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Special Equipment
- Large Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
- Airtight containers
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen veggies can add convenience and are just as nutritious.
2. Is this recipe healthy?
Yes! It includes lean meat, veggies, and can easily be made lower in fat or carbs if desired.
3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Definitely! Make it a day in advance and let the flavors deepen overnight in the fridge.
4. How can I customize it?
Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste preferences.
5. Can I cook it in a slow cooker?
Sure! Just combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Conclusion
Cowboy Soup is not only simple to make, but it also delivers a punch of flavor and nutrition. Ideal for family gatherings or casual get-togethers, it’s a dish that brings people together. With its hearty ingredients and inviting look, this soup will surely become a favorite in your home. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful recipe with those you love!
Cowboy Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 lbs ground beef Lean beef recommended
- 1 lb Yukon gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces Can substitute with other potatoes
- 4 carrots peeled and sliced into rounds
- 1 14.5-ounce can green beans, drained
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 15-ounce can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
- 1 15-ounce can corn, drained
- 4-6 cups beef broth Adjust for desired consistency
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- to taste Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes Adjust according to preference
- as desired Toppings Cheese, avocado, sour cream etc.
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion and celery, cooking for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the ground beef and brown it until no pink remains.
- Mix in the rest of the ingredients, spices, and 4 cups of beef broth until combined.
- Add up to 2 cups more broth to reach the desired consistency.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 14-16 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve hot with desired toppings.
