Crockpot Cowboy Soup

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

1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
2. Transfer the cooked beef to the crockpot.
3. 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.
4. Stir all the ingredients together until well combined.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
6. 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

1. Can I use frozen ground beef? Yes, but make sure to thaw it before browning.
2. Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy.
3. Is this recipe spicy? The spice level can be adjusted by adding or reducing chili powder and using mild or hot diced tomatoes.
4. Can I make this soup in advance? Yes, it tastes even better the next day!
5. What can I use instead of beef broth? You can use vegetable broth or water for a lighter flavor.
6. Can I cook it on the stovetop? Yes, simmer on low heat for about 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
7. What toppings do you recommend? Shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions are great choices!
8. Is this soup gluten-free? Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free.
9. Can I use canned vegetables? Yes, canned vegetables work well and save prep time.
10. 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!