Crockpot Cowboy Soup

This Crockpot Cowboy Soup is a hearty, comforting slow cooker meal loaded with ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and vegetables in a rich, savory broth. It’s an easy dump-and-go recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd.

Crockpot Cowboy Soup

Make hearty Crockpot Cowboy Soup with ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and savory spices. An easy slow cooker dinner perfect for busy weeknights.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 hours hrs

Total Time 6 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 8

Calories: 315

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion diced
• 2 celery stalks diced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 15-ounce can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 15-ounce can corn, drained
• 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes
• 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
• Fresh cilantro chopped, for garnish

Method

 

1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
2. Transfer the cooked beef to the slow cooker.
3. Add the onion, celery, garlic, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
4. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Cover and cook on Low for 6 to 8 hours or High for 3 to 4 hours.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Notes

• Browning the beef first gives the soup a richer flavor.
• Low-sodium broth lets you control the salt level.
• Rinse canned beans to remove excess sodium.
• Stir the soup before serving to evenly distribute the ingredients.
• The flavors become even better after resting for a few minutes.

Variations

• Add diced potatoes for an even heartier soup.
• Use ground turkey instead of beef.
• Stir in black beans or pinto beans.
• Add diced green chiles for extra flavor.
• Top with shredded cheddar cheese or sour cream.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with cornbread.
• Pair with tortilla chips.
• Enjoy with crusty bread.
• Top with sliced avocado.
• Serve alongside a simple green salad.

Tips

• Chop the vegetables into evenly sized pieces.
• Don’t overcook if using frozen vegetables added near the end.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze individual portions for quick lunches.
• Add a splash of lime juice before serving for a fresh finish.

Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 6 hours

Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes

Servings

Serves: 8

Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 315
• Protein: 21g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fat: 14g
• Sodium: 710mg

FAQs

Can I make Cowboy Soup without browning the beef first?

• You can, but browning the beef first develops better flavor and removes excess grease, giving the soup a richer taste.

Can I freeze Crockpot Cowboy Soup?

• Yes. Allow the soup to cool completely, then freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What beans work best in Cowboy Soup?

• Kidney beans are traditional, but black beans, pinto beans, or a combination of beans all work well.

Can I make this soup spicy?

• Absolutely. Add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or extra chili powder for more heat.

What can I serve with Cowboy Soup?

• Cornbread, biscuits, tortilla chips, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad all pair perfectly with this hearty soup.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

• Yes. Assemble all the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before, refrigerate overnight, and start cooking the next day.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Cowboy Soup is a filling, flavorful meal packed with beef, beans, vegetables, and bold seasonings. It’s an easy slow cooker recipe that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, and cozy nights when you need a satisfying bowl of comfort.