Cowboy Soup is a hearty, comforting bowl filled with beans, ground beef, tomatoes, and a mix of flavorful spices. It’s a classic meal that brings together rich textures and a warm, smoky taste that makes you feel right at home. This soup is perfect for a chilly day when you want something filling and satisfying.
I love making Cowboy Soup because it’s so easy to throw together, and it fills the house with a cozy aroma that everyone can’t wait to dig into. I often add a little extra chili powder to give it a nice kick, but you can keep it mild if that’s what you prefer. It’s one of those recipes that always turns out great, even if you’re in a rush.
My favorite way to serve this soup is with some warm cornbread on the side or topped with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream. It’s a simple combo, but it makes every spoonful taste even better. When I bring this to gatherings, it tends to disappear fast, which says a lot about how well it hits the spot!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives Cowboy Soup its hearty base and rich flavor. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you want a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try plant-based crumbles or extra beans.
Potatoes: They add nice texture and make the soup filling. Yukon gold or russet potatoes work well. Sweet potatoes are a tasty alternative that bring natural sweetness.
White Beans: These add protein and creaminess. Canned beans are a time saver, but dried beans soaked overnight work too. Pinto or black beans can replace white beans for a different twist.
Jalapeños: They provide a fresh, spicy kick. You can use fewer to keep it mild or substitute with bell peppers for no heat. Pickled jalapeños are a good option if you want extra tang.
Spices (Chili Powder, Cumin, Oregano): These create the classic cowboy soup flavor. If you don’t have all of them, chili powder alone still gives great taste. Adjust amounts to fit your spice comfort level.
How Can I Get Tender Potatoes Without Overcooking Other Ingredients?
Potatoes need enough time to cook but you don’t want other ingredients to get mushy. Here’s how I handle it:
- Dice potatoes evenly for even cooking, about 1-inch pieces.
- Add them after the broth and tomatoes, once spices are toasted.
- Simmer gently—not a rolling boil—to prevent breaking apart.
- Test for doneness by piercing with a fork after about 25-30 minutes.
This method keeps potatoes tender but firm, keeping the soup’s texture balanced. Adjust simmer time based on your potato size and type.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large Soup Pot – I prefer a wide, heavy-bottomed pot that heats evenly and holds plenty of ingredients.
- Wooden Spoon or Stirring Spatula – Perfect for breaking up the beef and stirring the soup without scratching the pot.
- Chopping Board and Sharp Knife – Essential for chopping vegetables into even pieces for consistent cooking.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups – Helps keep the spices and liquids just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for shredded cooked chicken or turkey for a different protein twist.
- Add chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime at the end for a fresh, bright flavor.
- Include extra vegetables like chopped carrots, celery, or zucchini for more texture and nutrition.
- Use smoked paprika or chili flakes to boost the smoky or spicy notes.
How to Make Cowboy Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 cup cooked or canned white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, sliced (adjust heat to taste)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 40 minutes total to cook. You’ll do some chopping and browning at the start, then let the soup simmer until everything is tender and flavors are melded perfectly. It’s a great weeknight meal that feels cozy and filling!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Heat the oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you get a lovely smell.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot with the onions and garlic. Use a spoon to break it up and cook until the beef turns brown and no longer pink. If there’s extra fat, carefully drain it off.
3. Add Spices and Liquids:
Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture well and cook for about 1 minute so the spices become fragrant. Then, pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the beef broth.
4. Add Vegetables and Simmer:
Carefully add the diced potatoes, chopped red bell pepper, corn, white beans, and sliced jalapeños to the pot. Raise the heat until the soup comes to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Final Taste and Serve:
Give the soup a taste. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder if you want a bolder flavor. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and enjoy! Top with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or some fresh cilantro if you like. Serving it with cornbread makes it perfect.
Can I Use Frozen Corn or Beans in Cowboy Soup?
Absolutely! Frozen corn can be added straight from the freezer without thawing. For canned beans, just drain and rinse them well before adding. If using frozen beans, thaw them first to avoid extra liquid in the soup.
How Do I Make This Soup Spicier or Milder?
To make it spicier, add more jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For milder soup, reduce or omit the jalapeños and use mild chili powder. You can always serve spicy toppings on the side for those who want extra heat.
Can I Prepare Cowboy Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! The flavors actually deepen if you let the soup sit in the fridge overnight. Just cool it completely before refrigerating, then reheat gently on the stove when ready to serve.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot. You can also freeze leftover soup for up to 2 months—thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
