Slow Cooker Cowboy Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for a cozy family dinner. Packed with ground beef, vegetables, and flavorful broth, this soup is easy to prepare and is perfect for a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, and tips for making the perfect Slow Cooker Cowboy Soup. Additionally, we’ll provide variations and address frequently asked questions to ensure you achieve the best results.
Ingredients
For the Slow Cooker Cowboy Soup:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 4 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cans mixed vegetables, not drained
- 1 can sweet corn, not drained
- 1 can condensed tomato soup
- 1 can cut green beans, not drained
- 1 can small diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Dice Potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes.
- Brown Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Assemble the Soup
- Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: In your slow cooker, add the browned ground beef, diced potatoes, mixed vegetables (with their liquid), sweet corn (with its liquid), condensed tomato soup, cut green beans (with their liquid), and small diced tomatoes.
- Season: Add the sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 3: Cook the Soup
- Set Slow Cooker: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The soup is ready when the potatoes are tender and the flavors are well combined.
Step 4: Serve
- Stir and Taste: Before serving, stir the soup well and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve Hot: Ladle the Cowboy Soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes
- Meat Option: You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different flavor.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
Variations
- Spicy Cowboy Soup: Add 1-2 diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Cowboy Soup: Stir in 1-2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a cheesy version.
- Bean Cowboy Soup: Add a can of kidney beans or black beans (drained and rinsed) for added protein and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a pot on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.
Q2: Can I freeze Cowboy Soup?
A: Yes, Cowboy Soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q3: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use fresh or frozen vegetables instead of canned. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the vegetables are tender.
Q4: What can I serve with Cowboy Soup?
A: This soup pairs well with cornbread, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad.
Q5: How do I thicken the soup?
A: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes with a fork or use a potato masher to achieve the desired consistency.
Slow Cooker Cowboy Soup is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its hearty ingredients and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Follow these simple steps and tips to create a comforting and satisfying meal that your loved ones will enjoy. Serve this hearty soup with your favorite sides for a complete and delightful meal!
