Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Soup
This Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Soup is a rustic, comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. Packed with ground beef, tender potatoes, and a medley of vegetables, it simmers low and slow in your crockpot until all the flavors meld together. The secret ingredient—just a touch of sugar—balances the savory tomato base and makes this soup unforgettable. It’s a family recipe passed down from Grandma Hazel, and it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy one-pot meal: Everything cooks together in the slow cooker.
Budget-friendly: Uses simple pantry staples and canned vegetables.
Comfort food classic: Warm, hearty, and satisfying.
Feeds a crowd: Generous portions make it perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
2 lbs ground beef
4 Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 cans mixed vegetables, undrained
1 can sweet corn, undrained
1 can condensed tomato soup
1 can petite diced tomatoes
1 can cut green beans, undrained
Pinch of salt
Dash of pepper
2 tbsp sugar (Grandma Hazel’s secret touch!)
Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes
Peel Yukon Gold potatoes and cut into small cubes.
Set aside.
- Brown the Beef
In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.
Drain excess fat.
- Assemble the Soup
Place browned beef and cubed potatoes into a large slow cooker.
Add mixed vegetables, corn, tomato soup, diced tomatoes, and green beans (all undrained).
Season with salt and pepper.
Stir in sugar to balance the flavors.
- Cook
Mix everything together well.
Cover and cook on low for 2–3 hours, until potatoes are tender and flavors are blended.
- Serve
Ladle into bowls and serve hot.
Garnish with fresh parsley or shredded cheese if desired.
Recipe Notes
Using fresh or frozen veggies: Substitute for canned, but add 1–2 cans of beef stock for liquid.
Potato options: Russet or red potatoes work too, but Yukon Golds hold their shape beautifully.
Make ahead: Brown beef and chop veggies the night before for easy morning assembly.
Tips for Success
Don’t skip the sugar: It’s the secret ingredient that rounds out the tomato base.
Cook low and slow: This allows the potatoes to soften without turning mushy.
Taste and adjust: Add extra seasoning or spices to suit your family’s preferences.
Variations
Spicy Cowboy Soup: Add chili powder or red pepper flakes for heat.
Tex-Mex twist: Stir in black beans and top with shredded cheddar and tortilla strips.
Vegetarian version: Swap beef for plant-based crumbles or lentils.
Chunkier style: Use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a smoky flavor.
Serving Ideas
Serve with cornbread or crusty rolls for dipping.
Pair with a crisp green salad for balance.
Top with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooled soup in portions for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Conclusion
This Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Soup is a true comfort food classic—simple, filling, and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or bringing a dish to share, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.