Hi, I’m Clara, your friendly kitchen companion, and today I’m so excited to share one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights: Cowboy Soup! As moms, women, and families, we all crave meals that are not only delicious but also quick, easy, and budget-friendly. That’s exactly what this hearty cowboy soup delivers. Ready in about 30 minutes, this recipe is packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients, perfect for a comforting family dinner.
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Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Soup Recipe
This cowboy soup recipe isn’t just good; it’s the best! I’ve perfected it to be:
- Quick & Easy: From start to finish, this soup is ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings. For another fantastic and [quick and easy lasagna soup recipe] that delivers big on flavor, you’ll love this one too.
- Smoked Beef Bacon Magic: The smoked beef bacon adds a unique, smoky flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- Simple Cleanup: One pot means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your family.
- Budget-Friendly: This recipe uses affordable ingredients that won’t break the bank.
What is Cowboy Soup?
Cowboy soup, also known as hobo stew, is a hearty, one-pot meal that’s been around for ages. The name “cowboy soup” comes from the fact that it’s a simple, filling meal that cowboys could easily make while out on the range. A good cowboy soup is all about using readily available ingredients, packing in lots of flavor, and providing a nourishing meal after a long day. It’s the kind of meal that sticks to your ribs and warms you from the inside out. For another incredibly comforting and [hearty crockpot chicken tortilla soup], be sure to check out our recipe.
Ingredients for Cowboy Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious cowboy soup:
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 3 stalks celery (diced)
- 4 cloves garlic (mined)
- 2 lbs ground smoked beef bacon
- 1 lb yukon gold potatoes (cut into 1-inch pieces (4 medium potatoes))
- 4 carrots (peeled and sliced into rounds)
- 1 (14.5 -ounce) can green beans (drained)
- 3 Tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 (15-ounce) can black eyed peas (drained and rinsed)
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn (drained)
- 4-6 cups beef broth (I used 6 cups)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste
- Toppings as desired (see notes)
Ingredient Notes for the Best Cowboy Soup
Let’s talk about making this soup the absolute best it can be! For the beef broth, I like to make sure it’s a high-quality broth for the richest flavor. When it comes to the smoked beef bacon, sourcing it from a local butcher or specialty store can make a huge difference in taste.
Selecting fresh vegetables is also key. Look for firm, brightly colored carrots and celery. Yukon gold potatoes hold their shape well in soups and add a creamy texture. I always opt for organic when I can to ensure the best quality and flavor!
How to Make Cowboy Soup: Step-by-Step
Okay, let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make this incredible cowboy soup, step by easy step:
- Heat the olive oil in a large dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the onion and celery and cook for 2-3 minutes, until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the ground smoked beef bacon and brown until cooked. Stir in the rest of the ingredients, spices, and 4 cups of beef broth until combined. Add up to 2 cups more broth to reach desired consistency.
- Turn the heat up to high and bring it to a boil. Once it’s boiling, turn the heat down to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 14-16 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender. Taste and add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed.
- Serve hot with desired toppings. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or covered in the microwave until heated through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Cowboy Soup
Even the simplest recipes can have a few pitfalls, but don’t worry, I’m here to help you avoid them! One common mistake is overcooking the potatoes, which can make them mushy. Make sure to cut them into uniform pieces and check for doneness around the 14-minute mark. Another mistake is not browning the beef bacon properly. This step is crucial for developing a rich, savory flavor. Finally, don’t be afraid to season generously. Taste as you go and adjust the salt, pepper, and spices to your liking.
Variations on Cowboy Soup
Want to mix things up? Here are a few fun variations you can try:
| Variation | Ingredient Substitution | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetarian/Vegan | Lentils for beef bacon | Use vegetable broth. Add extra smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. |
| Lower Sodium | Low-sodium broth, no-salt-added beans | Adjust seasonings carefully. |
| Spicy | Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper | Adjust amount to your preference. |
For those exploring other delicious and quick vegetarian soup options, a [quick Thai coconut red lentil soup] is a wonderful choice.
What to Serve with Cowboy Soup
This cowboy soup is a meal on its own, but it’s even better with the right accompaniments! I love serving it with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping. A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds a refreshing contrast. For toppings, consider shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
How to Store and Reheat Cowboy Soup
To store your cowboy soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, but be aware that the potatoes may become slightly mushy upon thawing. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat or microwave it in a covered dish until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I thicken this for a homemade Cowboy Stew? A: To thicken your cowboy soup into a stew, you can add a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water) to the soup while it simmers. Stir it in and let it cook for a few minutes until thickened.
Q: Can I make cowboy soup in a slow cooker? A: Absolutely! Brown the beef bacon and sauté the onions and celery first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Nutrition Information
Each serving of this cowboy soup contains approximately:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
Cowboy Soup Recipe Card
The Ultimate Cowboy Soup: Quick & Easy Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the onion and celery and cook for 2-3 minutes, until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the ground smoked beef bacon and brown until cooked. Stir in the rest of the ingredients, spices, and 4 cups of beef broth until combined. Add up to 2 cups more broth to reach desired consistency.
- Turn the heat up to high and bring it to a boil. Once it’s boiling, turn the heat down to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 14-16 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender. Taste and add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed.
- Serve hot with desired toppings. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or covered in the microwave until heated through.
Notes
Conclusion
I truly hope you enjoy this incredibly delicious and easy cowboy soup recipe as much as my family does. It’s a fantastic way to get a hearty, flavorful meal on the table in no time. Now, I’d love to hear from you! What are your favorite toppings for cowboy soup? Do you have any secret ingredients that make it extra special? Please leave a comment below and share your thoughts and photos! I can’t wait to see your creations!
