Cowboy Soup

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Cowboy Soup is the perfect dish for cozy weeknights. It combines savory flavors and hearty ingredients, making it satisfying and warming. This soup is easy to prepare and will quickly become a family favorite. With its creamy texture and delicious taste, you’ll look forward to enjoying it on chilly evenings.

How to Make Creamy Cowboy Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Ground Beef (or turkey or meat alternative)
• 1 large Onion (yellow or white for best flavor)
• 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 4 cups Beef Broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
• 14.5 oz Diced Tomatoes (canned with juice)
• 1 cup Corn (canned or frozen)
• 15 oz Black Beans (drained and rinsed if canned)
• 2 medium Potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet, diced small)
• 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika
• 1 tbsp Chili Powder (adjust for heat preference)
• 1 tsp Cumin
• 1 tsp Salt (adjust to taste)
• 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup Heavy Cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
• 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (fresh cheese preferred)

Directions:

1. Start by heating a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. If using turkey or a meat alternative, cook until heated through.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent.
4. Pour in the beef (or vegetable) broth along with the diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, and diced potatoes. Stir well.
5. Add the smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together.
6. Bring the soup to a boil. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
7. Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy.
8. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary.

How to Serve Creamy Cowboy Soup

Serve Creamy Cowboy Soup hot in bowls, and consider garnishing with extra cheese or chopped green onions if desired. It pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Creamy Cowboy Soup

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will last for 3-4 days in the fridge. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just ensure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.

Tips to Make Creamy Cowboy Soup

• For added spice, include jalapeños or hot sauce to the recipe.
• To make it healthier, consider adding more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots.
• Make it vegetarian by using plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth.
• For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes or use an immersion blender for a few seconds.

Variation

Feel free to customize your soup by adding different vegetables or beans. You can also replace the cheddar cheese with a different kind of cheese for a unique flavor.

FAQs

Can I make creamy cowboy soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup can be made ahead of time and tastes even better the next day. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to eat.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Absolutely! Brown the meat and sauté the onion and garlic first, then transfer everything into a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients listed are gluten-free. Just double-check your broth and any canned items for gluten-free labeling.