If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that pleases the entire family, try Crockpot Cowboy Soup. This comforting dish is brimming with protein, vegetables, and rich flavors, sure to have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for busy weekdays or a cozy evening meal, this crockpot recipe is the solution. Let’s explore how to prepare this delicious soup effortlessly, letting your crockpot handle the hard work while you go about your day!
Why You’ll Love Crockpot Cowboy Soup
This Crockpot Cowboy Soup is a delectable treat that delights the palate while being a one-pot marvel that streamlines your cooking process. Here’s what makes this recipe exceptional:
- Minimal prep time – With just 15 minutes of prep, you can throw all the ingredients into the crockpot and let it simmer.
- Rich in protein and nutrients – Between the ground beef, beans, and vegetables, this soup offers a well-balanced, hearty meal.
- Perfect for meal prep – This soup makes six servings, which means you’ll have leftovers to enjoy later or freeze for another meal.
Ingredients Breakdown: What You Need for Crockpot Cowboy Soup
To make the best Cowboy Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients. These items bring together the richness, texture, and flavor that make this soup so memorable:
- 1 lb ground beef: This is the base of the soup and provides a rich, meaty flavor. Ground beef also adds much-needed protein to the dish.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Onions enhance the overall savory flavor of the soup, giving it a fragrant aroma.
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz): Tomatoes add a bit of acidity and sweetness that complements the beef.
- 1 can tomato sauce (8 oz): Tomato sauce helps to create the rich, hearty broth of the soup.
- 1 can whole kernel corn (15 oz), drained: Corn provides a touch of sweetness and adds texture to every bite.
- 1 can pinto beans (15 oz), drained: Pinto beans are soft and mildly flavored, making them the perfect addition for protein and fiber.
- 1 can kidney beans (15 oz), drained: Kidney beans add a heartier texture and a slightly earthy flavor to the soup.
- 4 cups beef broth: This serves as the base liquid, bringing depth and richness to the soup.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: The taco seasoning adds a touch of spice and boosts the flavor complexity of the soup.
- 1 cup potatoes, diced: Potatoes make the soup even more filling and hearty, adding a nice starchy texture.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing the flavors and seasoning the dish to perfection.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s break down how to put it all together. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare this Crockpot Cowboy Soup:
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef and Onion
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion. This will release the flavors from the beef while softening the onion. Make sure to drain the excess fat from the skillet after the meat is cooked through. Browning the beef helps enhance the depth of flavor in the soup.
Step 2: Transfer Ingredients to the Crockpot
Once your beef and onion are cooked, transfer them to your crockpot. This is where the magic happens! Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, corn, pinto beans, kidney beans, beef broth, taco seasoning, and diced potatoes to the crockpot.
Step 3: Stir and Set Your Crockpot
Give everything a good stir to combine the ingredients. Then cover the crockpot and set it on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know the soup is done when the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Before serving, taste the soup and season it with salt and pepper as needed. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference. Ladle the Crockpot Cowboy Soup into bowls and serve it with your favorite toppings like cheddar cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for extra flair.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Crockpot Cowboy Soup
- Make it spicier: If you like a little heat in your food, feel free to add a bit of chili powder, cayenne pepper, or even a diced jalapeño along with the taco seasoning.
- Try different beans: Although pinto beans and kidney beans work perfectly, you can experiment with other types such as black beans or chickpeas.
- Swap out the beef: If you want a lighter version, you can replace the ground beef with ground turkey or even ground chicken.
- Vegetarian option: For a vegetarian version, leave out the ground beef and replace the beef broth with vegetable broth. You can also add extra beans or veggies like zucchini or carrots.
- Freeze for later: This soup freezes really well! Store it in airtight containers and freeze it for up to 3 months. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal.
Health Benefits of Crockpot Cowboy Soup
This Crockpot Cowboy Soup is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients that benefit your health. Here’s what you’re getting in every bowl:
- Protein: The combination of ground beef and beans provides a significant amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and keeping you full for longer.
- Fiber: Beans are a great source of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- Vitamins and minerals: Ingredients like tomatoes, onions, and potatoes provide essential vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium, which support immune function and heart health.
- Low in fat: By using lean ground beef and draining the excess fat, you reduce the amount of unhealthy fats in the dish, making it a wholesome option for a balanced diet.
Serving Suggestions
For an even heartier meal, serve this Crockpot Cowboy Soup with a side of:
- Warm cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread complements the savory flavors of the soup.
- Tortilla chips: Crush them into your bowl for some extra crunch.
- Grilled cheese sandwiches: These make the perfect companion to dip into the soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Crockpot Cowboy Soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prepping. Simply follow the recipe and store the finished soup in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for later.
Can I cook this recipe on the stovetop?
The crockpot is perfect for slow-cooking, but you can also prepare this soup on the stovetop. Simply brown the beef and onion, then combine all ingredients in a large pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for 45 minutes to an hour, or until the potatoes are tender.