Slow Cooker Cowboy Soup

Step into the realm of comfort food bliss with our hearty and wholesome Slow Cooker Cowboy Soup recipe. Bursting with the robust flavors of ground beef, tender potatoes, and an array of canned vegetables, this soul-warming soup is a testament to the rustic charm of cowboy cuisine. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a chilly evening or seeking a fuss-free dinner solution, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. So, dust off your slow cooker and prepare to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the timeless appeal of cowboy comfort food.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds of ground beef
• 4 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cans of mixed vegetables, not drained
• 1 can of sweet corn, not drained
• 1 can of condensed tomato soup
• 1 can of cut green beans, not drained
• 1 can of small diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons of sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Transfer the cooked ground beef to a slow cooker.
3. Add Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the slow cooker.
4. Add Canned Vegetables: Pour in the cans of mixed vegetables, sweet corn, cut green beans, and small diced tomatoes, along with their juices.
5. Add Tomato Soup: Stir in the condensed tomato soup until well combined.
6. Season: Season the soup with sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir to evenly distribute the seasonings.
7. Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together.
8. Serve: Once cooked, ladle the cowboy soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or shredded cheese if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations

• Add Bacon: For an extra layer of smoky flavor, consider adding cooked bacon pieces to the soup. Simply crisp up some bacon in a skillet, chop it into bite-sized pieces, and stir it into the soup during the last hour of cooking.
• Spice it Up: If you prefer a bit of heat, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version of this soup, omit the ground beef and substitute vegetable broth for the beef broth. You can also add additional vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

• Keto-Friendly Option: To make this recipe keto-friendly, omit the potatoes and canned vegetables, which may contain higher carb counts. Instead, focus on low-carb vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, and spinach. You can also add extra protein such as diced chicken or sausage for a more filling meal.
• Low-Carb Variation: For a lower-carb version of this soup, reduce the amount of potatoes used or substitute them with low-carb alternatives such as cauliflower or turnips. Additionally, opt for canned vegetables with no added sugar and choose a tomato soup with lower carbohydrate content.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, leftover cowboy soup can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
2. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned? While canned vegetables are convenient for this recipe, you can certainly use fresh vegetables if preferred. Simply chop them into bite-sized pieces and adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are tender.
3. What can I serve with Slow Cooker Cowboy Soup? This soup pairs well with crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple green salad. You can also top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor and texture.
4. Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of using a slow cooker? Yes, you can adapt this recipe for stovetop cooking. Simply follow the instructions as written, but instead of transferring the ingredients to a slow cooker, simmer the soup in a large pot on the stove over low heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Is this soup kid-friendly? Absolutely! This soup is family-friendly and appeals to both kids and adults alike. The combination of ground beef, potatoes, and vegetables in a flavorful broth is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

In conclusion, our Slow Cooker Cowboy Soup recipe is a hearty and wholesome dish that celebrates the comforting flavors of cowboy cuisine. With its tender beef, hearty potatoes, and assortment of vegetables simmered to perfection in a savory broth, this soup is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether enjoyed on a cozy evening at home or served at a casual gathering with friends, this recipe is guaranteed to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and prepare to savor the delicious flavors of cowboy comfort food with every spoonful of this delightful soup.