Are you in search of a hearty and satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor? Look no further than this Crockpot Cowboy Soup Recipe! Packed with wholesome ingredients like ground beef, beans, corn, and savory spices, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s made effortlessly in the slow cooker, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the steps to create this comforting soup, answer some frequently asked questions, provide variations, and even offer keto and low-carb versions for those watching their carb intake.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, you can easily swap out the ground beef for ground turkey if you prefer. Just be aware that ground turkey may result in a slightly different flavor and texture compared to ground beef.
Q: How long does this soup need to cook in the crockpot? A: This soup typically cooks on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours in the crockpot. However, cooking times may vary depending on your specific slow cooker and desired level of tenderness.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this soup? A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables. Diced bell peppers, carrots, or celery would all be delicious additions to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the soup.
Q: Is this soup spicy? A: The level of spiciness can be adjusted to suit your preferences. The chili powder adds a subtle heat, but you can increase or decrease the amount according to your taste. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions
Instructions:
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease.
- Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Transfer the cooked beef mixture to the crockpot. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, corn kernels, tomato sauce, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the flavors are well combined and the soup is heated through.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly option. You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
- Spicy Variation: If you prefer a spicier soup, add a diced jalapeño pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup mixture before cooking.
- Low-Carb Version: For a low-carb option, omit the beans and corn from the recipe. You can add extra vegetables or protein sources like diced chicken or tofu to make the soup more filling.
Keto Version:
For a keto-friendly version of this soup, simply omit the beans and corn and replace them with low-carb vegetables like cauliflower florets or chopped spinach. You can also use ground turkey instead of ground beef for a leaner option.
Crockpot Cowboy Soup is the perfect meal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a delicious and comforting dish with minimal effort. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a bowl of warm and comforting goodness any time of the year!
