Cowboy soup is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for a chilly evening or a satisfying weekend meal. This recipe uses ground beef for a richer, more affordable version of the classic, while still retaining all the comforting elements you expect from a true cowboy stew. Forget bland canned soups; this recipe delivers a robust, deeply satisfying taste that will have you yearning for more.
What Makes This Cowboy Soup Recipe Special?
This recipe isn't your average ground beef soup. We've focused on building layers of flavor through a careful selection of ingredients and cooking techniques. We'll brown the beef to develop a rich base, simmer it with hearty vegetables, and finish with a touch of smoky flavor that truly captures the essence of the Wild West. This recipe is designed to be easily adaptable to your preferences – feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your taste and what you have on hand!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Cowboy Soup Perfection
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Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
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Simmer the Soup: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with crusty bread or cornbread for a truly satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other types of beans in this Cowboy Soup recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. Feel free to experiment with different beans, such as black beans, great northern beans, or even a mix of your favorites.
What kind of beef broth should I use?
You can use any kind of beef broth you prefer – low sodium, homemade, or store-bought. The flavor of the broth will contribute to the overall taste of the soup, so choose one that complements your preferences.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add more cayenne pepper, or include a diced jalapeño pepper along with the other vegetables. A dash of your favorite hot sauce can also add a kick.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this cowboy soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months.
This Cowboy Soup recipe with ground beef is a testament to the versatility and deliciousness of simple ingredients. It’s a perfect example of a hearty, flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make. So gather your ingredients, put on your cowboy hat (optional!), and get ready to enjoy a taste of the Wild West!
