When the temperature drops and you’re craving a warm, hearty meal that requires minimal effort, nothing hits the spot quite like crockpot cowboy soup. Bursting with flavors and packed with wholesome ingredients, this slow-cooked dish is the perfect comfort food to enjoy on cold days or busy weeknights.

Cowboy soup is a rustic, hearty dish traditionally made with ground beef, vegetables, and a tomato-based broth. It is inspired by the simple yet filling meals cowboys used to make while on the trail, using whatever ingredients were available. The soup has evolved into a staple comfort food in many households due to its versatility, rich flavors, and ease of preparation.

Why Use a Crockpot?: The beauty of cowboy soup lies in its convenience, especially when made in a crockpot. Using a slow cooker not only enhances the flavors of the ingredients by allowing them to simmer together, but it also allows you to set it and forget it. You can go about your day while the crockpot works its magic, and when you return, you have a delicious, hearty soup ready to serve.

Ingredients Breakdown

Ground Beef: The 2 pounds of ground beef used in this recipe provide a rich and savory foundation for the soup. Ground beef brings hearty texture and flavor, making the soup filling and satisfying. For a lighter version, ground turkey or pork can be substituted without sacrificing too much flavor.

Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes are ideal for cowboy soup due to their creamy texture and buttery taste. When cooked in a slow cooker, they hold their shape well, making them a perfect match for this soup. Alternatives like russet potatoes can be used, but they may break down more during cooking, resulting in a thicker consistency.

Canned Vegetables: Convenience is key with canned vegetables like mixed vegetables, sweet corn, diced tomatoes, and green beans. These save time on chopping and prepping while still providing a variety of textures and nutrients. For a fresher option, you can use frozen or fresh vegetables, though they may require a bit more prep time.

Tomato Soup: Condensed tomato soup serves as the base of the broth, providing a smooth, rich, and slightly tangy flavor. This ingredient adds body to the soup and helps to blend all the other flavors together seamlessly.

Seasonings and Sugar: The pinch of salt and dash of pepper are essential for bringing out the flavors of the ingredients, while the sugar balances the acidity from the tomatoes, creating a well-rounded taste.

Step-by-Step Preparation Process

Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes: Peel and cube the Yukon Gold potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate. Cutting them into uniform pieces prevents any from being undercooked or overly mushy. For added convenience, soak the cubed potatoes in water while you prepare the other ingredients to keep them from browning before adding them to the crockpot.

Step 2: Cooking the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, ensuring it breaks apart into small crumbles. Browning the meat before adding it to the crockpot deepens its flavor. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy soup, leaving just the savory, flavorful meat.

Step 3: Assembling in the Slow Cooker: Begin by layering the cooked ground beef and cubed potatoes in the slow cooker. Next, pour in the undrained cans of mixed vegetables, sweet corn, petite diced tomatoes, and cut green beans. This layering ensures all the flavors meld evenly as they cook. Be sure to stir the ingredients well to combine.

Step 4: Seasoning and Sweetening: Add a pinch of salt, a dash of pepper, and the 2 tablespoons of sugar. The sugar helps balance the acidic tomatoes while enhancing the natural sweetness of the corn and other vegetables.

Step 5: Cooking Time: Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 2-3 hours. This slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully and gives the potatoes enough time to become tender without turning mushy. Check the potatoes with a fork to ensure they are done before serving.

Tips for Variations and Customization

Protein Alternatives: If you’re looking to switch up the protein, try using sausage, chicken, or even plant-based ground “meat” for a vegetarian or lower-fat option. Sausage adds a spicy kick, while chicken lightens the dish without losing any of its heartiness.

Vegetarian Option: For a fully vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and substitute it with beans, such as black beans or kidney beans. These plant-based proteins offer the same filling quality while keeping the soup nutritious and flavorful.

Spicing it Up: For those who prefer a bit of heat, adding spices like cumin, smoked paprika, or chili powder can give the soup a southwestern twist. A dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños can also add a kick for spice lovers.

Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker consistency, consider adding a slurry made from cornstarch or flour mixed with water towards the end of cooking. Stir it in during the last 30 minutes to allow the soup to thicken without overcooking.

Additional Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value by adding more vegetables like diced carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. These additions will increase the color and texture variety in the soup, making it even heartier and more vibrant.

Serving Suggestions

Crusty Bread or Cornbread: Serve cowboy soup with a side of crusty bread or cornbread to complete the meal. The bread helps soak up the savory broth, making every bite more satisfying. Cornbread’s slightly sweet flavor pairs particularly well with the soup’s savory, tomato-rich base.

Toppings: Elevate your bowl of soup with delicious toppings like shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. These garnishes not only add visual appeal but also extra layers of flavor and texture.

Side Dishes: To round out the meal, consider pairing cowboy soup with simple side dishes such as a crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables. These light sides complement the richness of the soup without overpowering it, creating a balanced and wholesome meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers: To store leftover cowboy soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can safely store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Keeping it in a well-sealed container ensures that the soup remains fresh and flavorful, while also preventing any strong smells from escaping.

Freezing the Soup: Cowboy soup freezes exceptionally well, making it an excellent option for meal prep. For best results, freeze the soup in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. Be sure to leave some space at the top of the container for the soup to expand as it freezes. Properly stored, the soup can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Label your containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating: To reheat refrigerated or thawed soup, you can use the microwave or stovetop. For microwaving, heat the soup in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. If reheating on the stovetop, warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Reheat just until warmed through to preserve the integrity of the potatoes and vegetables.

Why Crockpot Cowboy Soup is a Great Family Meal

Affordability: This soup is made with budget-friendly ingredients, such as ground beef, potatoes, and canned vegetables. It’s an excellent way to feed a large family without breaking the bank while still delivering a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Time-Saving: With the convenience of the crockpot, you can prepare the ingredients in the morning, set the slow cooker, and let it do all the work. By the time dinner rolls around, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful soup ready to serve with minimal effort.

Kid-Friendly: Cowboy soup’s mild flavors and tender vegetables make it a hit with kids. It’s packed with nutrients, but the familiar ingredients and soft texture ensure even picky eaters will enjoy it.

Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup is ideal for batch cooking. Make a large pot over the weekend, freeze or refrigerate leftovers, and enjoy quick meals throughout the week without any additional cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make cowboy soup ahead of time?
Yes! Cowboy soup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer for easy reheating. This makes it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can replace canned ones, but they might need additional prep and a bit more cooking time. You can also use frozen vegetables as a middle-ground option, which won’t require any extra cooking time.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can cook the soup on high for 1-2 hours instead of low for 2-3 hours. Just be sure to check that the potatoes are fully cooked and tender before serving.

Is it possible to make this soup on the stovetop?
Yes, you can make this soup on the stovetop by following the same steps. After browning the beef, simmer all the ingredients in a large pot for about 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft.

Can I omit the sugar?
Yes, the sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes, but if you prefer a sugar-free option, you can omit it or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or agave.

Conclusion

Final Thoughts: Crockpot cowboy soup is a simple yet delicious meal that brings comfort to the table. With its hearty ingredients, slow-cooked flavors, and versatility, it’s an ideal recipe for busy families, cozy nights in, or meal prepping.

Encouragement to Try the Recipe: Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and adaptable to your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different proteins, vegetables, and spices to make it your own.

Share Your Experience: We’d love to hear how your version of cowboy soup turns out! Share your unique twists or tips in the comments below. What toppings or sides did you serve with it? We’re always excited to see the creative ways people enjoy this classic dish.

Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Soup

Author: Christine

Print Recipe

Description

Crockpot Cowboy Soup is a rich and satisfying meal that’s perfect for cold days or when you need something easy yet hearty. Made with ground beef, tender potatoes, canned vegetables, and a flavorful tomato base, this soup is not only budget-friendly but also packed with nutrients. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can prep everything in the morning and come home to a warm, delicious meal that the whole family will love.

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and cube the Yukon Gold potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Combine Ingredients: In a large slow cooker, add the cooked ground beef and cubed potatoes. Then, pour in the undrained mixed vegetables, sweet corn, tomato soup, petite diced tomatoes, and green beans.
Season and Sweeten: Add a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper. Sprinkle in the sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Mix and Cook: Stir all ingredients together in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and all flavors have melded together.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or on its own for a hearty, comforting meal.

Notes

Customizations: Feel free to swap ground beef with ground turkey, pork, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian version. You can also substitute the canned vegetables with fresh or frozen veggies, but be mindful of additional cooking time.
Balance the Acidity: The 2 tablespoons of sugar help balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhance the sweetness of the vegetables. If you prefer, you can substitute the sugar with honey or agave for a natural sweetener.
Cooking Tip: For a thicker soup, try adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will give the soup a heartier, stew-like consistency.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for easy meals during the week.