Crockpot Cowboy Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the best of comfort food with the convenience of slow cooking. This one-pot meal is packed with protein-rich ingredients like ground beef and beans, along with vibrant vegetables, making it a nutritious option for any day of the week. Perfect for busy families, it simmers in the crockpot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions
Directions
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Transfer the cooked beef to the crockpot.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
- Stir all the ingredients together until well combined.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with optional toppings.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields about 6 servings. Cooking on low takes approximately 6-8 hours, while cooking on high takes about 3-4 hours.
Variations
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or omit it entirely and add more beans.
- Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for an extra kick.
- Incorporate additional vegetables like zucchini or carrots for added nutrition.
- Experiment with different types of beans, such as pinto or navy beans.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave individual servings or warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the soup in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
10 FAQs
- Can I use frozen ground beef? Yes, but make sure to thaw it before browning.
- Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy.
- Is this recipe spicy? The spice level can be adjusted by adding or reducing chili powder and using mild or hot diced tomatoes.
- Can I make this soup in advance? Yes, it tastes even better the next day!
- What can I use instead of beef broth? You can use vegetable broth or water for a lighter flavor.
- Can I cook it on the stovetop? Yes, simmer on low heat for about 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- What toppings do you recommend? Shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions are great choices!
- Is this soup gluten-free? Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free.
- Can I use canned vegetables? Yes, canned vegetables work well and save prep time.
- How can I thicken the soup? For a thicker consistency, mash some of the beans or add a cornstarch slurry.
Conclusion
Crockpot Cowboy Soup is a versatile, delicious meal that embodies the essence of comfort food. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a simple weeknight dinner, this soup checks all the boxes. With its easy preparation and robust flavors, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of this hearty dish!