Hearty Crock Pot Cowboy Soup

When it comes to hearty, comforting meals, Crock Pot Cowboy Soup is a winner! Packed with ground beef, tender potatoes, and a medley of vegetables, this soup is a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights, chilly evenings, or game-day gatherings. The best part? It’s made in your slow cooker, so you can set it and forget it. Let’s dive into this delicious, easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2-3 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes
Yields: 6-8 servings

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 4 Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 cans mixed vegetables, undrained
• 1 can sweet corn, undrained
• 1 can condensed tomato soup
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 can cut green beans, undrained
• Pinch of salt
• Dash of pepper
• 2 tablespoons sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients:
   • Peel and cut the Yukon Gold potatoes into small cubes.
   • Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, then drain the excess grease.
2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:
   • Place the browned ground beef and cubed potatoes in a large slow cooker.
3. Add Canned Vegetables:
   • Add the cans of mixed vegetables, sweet corn, condensed tomato soup, diced tomatoes, and cut green beans to the slow cooker. Do not drain the cans—add the contents directly to the slow cooker.
4. Season:
   • Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper.
5. Add Sugar:
   • Stir in 2 tablespoons of sugar. This secret ingredient enhances the flavor of the soup and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
6. Mix and Cook:
   • Mix all the ingredients together well.
   • Cook on low for 2-3 hours in the slow cooker, or until the potatoes are tender.
7. Serve:
   • Once the soup is cooked, ladle it into bowls and enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: Packed with ground beef, potatoes, and vegetables, this soup is a complete meal in one bowl.
• Easy to Make: With minimal prep and a slow cooker doing most of the work, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
• Versatile: Customize the ingredients to suit your taste or use what you have on hand.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or game-day gatherings.

Tips and Tricks

• Use Fresh Vegetables: If you prefer fresh vegetables, substitute the canned ones with fresh or frozen alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili powder, cumin, or smoked paprika for a smoky, spicy kick.
• Thicken the Soup: If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with water and stir it into the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Variations and Customizations

• Add Beans: Stir in a can of kidney beans or black beans for extra protein and texture.
• Cheesy Twist: Top the soup with shredded cheddar cheese or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
• Swap the Meat: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.

Pairing Suggestions

• Bread: Serve with crusty bread, cornbread, or garlic toast for dipping.
• Salad: Pair with a simple green salad or coleslaw for a balanced meal.
• Beverages: Enjoy with iced tea, lemonade, or a cold beer.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: This soup freezes well! Place it in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Popular Questions

1. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned?
Yes, you can! Use fresh or frozen vegetables, but adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they’re tender.

2. Can I make this soup on the stovetop?
Absolutely! Simmer the soup in a large pot over low heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.

3. How can I make this soup healthier?
Use lean ground beef or ground turkey, low-sodium canned vegetables, and reduce the amount of sugar.

4. Can I add rice or pasta to the soup?
Yes, you can! Add cooked rice or pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

This Crock Pot Cowboy Soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With its hearty combination of ground beef, potatoes, and vegetables, it’s a meal that will warm your soul and fill your belly. Perfect for busy weeknights, chilly evenings, or feeding a crowd, this soup is a must-try recipe. Make it today and enjoy the delicious flavors of the Wild West in every bite!