Ah, Cowboy Soup! Just saying the name brings back fond memories of chilly evenings spent around the kitchen table, smiling faces, and warm bowls of hearty goodness. This recipe is like a warm embrace on a cold day, and I can’t help but smile every time I make it. When I first discovered Cowboy Soup, it was during a camping trip where a friend made it over a campfire. The aroma wafting through the trees was enough to make anyone drool!
What I love most about this soup is its incredible versatility. You can throw in whatever veggies you have lying around in the fridge, making it a perfect way to clean out leftovers. Plus, it’s filling enough that it can be a meal on its own. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want something cozy for yourself, this Cowboy Soup will have everyone coming back for seconds!
What’s in Cowboy Soup?
Let’s dive into the star-studded cast of ingredients that make this soup a true comfort food classic!
Ground Beef or Ground Turkey: Depending on your preference, both options work beautifully. I usually go for ground turkey for a leaner option, but ground beef gives that rich, savory flavor that’s hard to resist.
Onion: A large onion, diced, adds essential flavor and sweetness when sautéed. Trust me, don’t skip this step—it’s a game changers!
Garlic: Ah, the aromatic goodness of garlic! I typically use 2-3 cloves, minced. It adds a punch of flavor and is scientifically proven to make everything better!
Potatoes: You’ll want about 2 medium potatoes, diced. They’ll soak up all the delicious flavors and provide a hearty base for the soup.
Carrots and Celery: Both add color and health benefits. Chopped carrots not only sweeten the pot, but they’re also rich in vitamins!
Diced Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce: This duo is the heart of the soup, creating a rich and tangy base that makes every scoop irresistible.
Beef Broth: I use 4 cups of beef broth for depth, but if you’re looking for a lighter version, chicken broth works too!
Corn: A cup of either frozen or canned corn adds a fantastic crunch and a burst of sweetness.
Kidney Beans: These are packing protein and fiber! I opt for canned beans that I rinse and drain to keep things simple.
Spices: With 1 teaspoon of chili powder, cumin, and ½ teaspoon of paprika, you get a lovely warmth without it being too spicy. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
Fresh Parsley: A little chop for garnish adds a pop of color and freshness to your finished dish.
Is Cowboy Soup Good for You?
Absolutely! This Cowboy Soup is packed with nutrients and is as wholesome as it gets.
Ground Beef or Turkey: Both provide protein, though turkey is lower in fat. When balancing your meals, it’s nice to have options.
Vegetables: With a mix of potatoes, carrots, celery, and corn, you’re getting a great array of vitamins and minerals. Vegetables are rich in antioxidants, too!
Beans: Loaded with fiber and protein, kidney beans not only fill you up but also support digestive health.
Now, as for any considerations, keep an eye on the sodium if you’re using canned tomato products and broth. Opt for low-sodium versions if possible. And if you’re watching carbs, you can always decrease the potato content or substitute with cauliflower for a delicious twist.
How to Make Cowboy Soup?
Let’s get cooking! Grab your favorite pot or Dutch oven, and let’s get started on this crowd-pleaser of a soup.
1. In a large pot, brown your choice of ground beef or turkey over medium heat until it’s fully cooked. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, sautéing until the onion is translucent (around 5 minutes).
3. Stir in the diced potatoes, carrots, and celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, corn, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the whole pot to a simmer.
5. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it bubble away for about 30-40 minutes or until the veggies are tender.
6. Taste your delicious creation and adjust the seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with some fresh chopped parsley.
Serving and Storing Suggestions
This soup is like a blank canvas; it’s just begging for your own flair! Feel free to throw in extra veggies like bell peppers or green beans, and don’t forget some crusty bread or crunchy crackers on the side. If you want to heat things up, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
And for meal prep, this soup freezes beautifully. Just ensure it’s cooled before transferring it to airtight containers. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a little pick-me-up!
So there you have it! I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Cowboy Soup a try. I promise it’ll warm you up from the inside out and might just become a staple in your household. If you make it, let me know how it turns out, and share your favorite modifications—I’d love to hear your take on it! Happy cooking!
