Name: Creamy Cowboy Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juice); 1 (15-ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained; 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 cup diced potatoes (peeled or unpeeled); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Sliced green onions; Extra shredded cheese; Crushed tortilla chips

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There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a big bowl of Creamy Cowboy Soup. My first encounter with this dish was during a chilly evening spent at a friend’s ranch. The combined flavors of hearty beef, creamy broth, and fresh veggies created a comforting embrace, perfect for recharging after a long day outdoors. It’s rustic yet refined, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners and gatherings alike. If you’re craving something wholesome and delicious, this soup is your answer.

Why you’ll love this dish

Creamy Cowboy Soup is a true crowd-pleaser, suitable for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a simple weeknight meal, this dish fits the bill. It’s budget-friendly yet maintains that hearty, authentic flavor everyone loves. Picture a cozy evening in with loved ones, serving up bowls of this creamy goodness while laughter fills the air.

“This soup is now a staple in our home! It’s creamy, hearty, and the kids can’t get enough of it.” – Jessica T.

The cooking process explained

Making Creamy Cowboy Soup is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll sauté some aromatics, build the flavorful soup base, and then finish it off with that delicious creamy texture. The whole process is easy, so don’t worry if you’re new to cooking. You’ll have a filling soup ready in no time!

What you’ll need

Gathering your ingredients is a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need to create a perfect batch of Creamy Cowboy Soup:

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups beef broth
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
1 (15-ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 cup diced potatoes (peeled or unpeeled)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Sliced green onions
Extra shredded cheese
Crushed tortilla chips

Feel free to mix things up; you can swap ground beef for turkey or make it vegetarian by using beans instead.

Step-by-step instructions

Cook the Beef: In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. Sauté for a few minutes until the onion is translucent.
Build the Soup Base: Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes with juice, corn, black beans, tomatoes with green chilies, and diced potatoes. Stir well to combine.
Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Make It Creamy: Stir in the heavy cream, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls, and top with shredded cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, and crushed tortilla chips.

Best ways to enjoy it

Creamy Cowboy Soup is delicious on its own, but there are plenty of fun ways to elevate the experience. Serve it with crusty bread for dipping or alongside a fresh green salad to balance out the richness. For added crunch, sprinkle some tortilla chips on top, or provide a variety of toppings like avocado or jalapeños for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

Storage and reheating tips

Storing your leftover soup is simple. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat or microwave individual servings.

If you’d like to keep it longer, this soup freezes beautifully. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and it will last for about 2-3 months. Always thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating to ensure it remains safe to eat.

Pro chef tips

To enhance the flavors even further, consider browning the beef with some spices at the very first stage. Also, using homemade beef broth can elevate the dish to professional levels. For a unique twist, try adding a splash of lime juice just before serving to brighten up the creamy flavors.

Creative twists

Feel free to customize your Creamy Cowboy Soup based on your preferences. Experiment with different beans like pinto or add in some diced bell peppers for extra color and flavor. A sprinkle of cilantro on top can provide a fresh burst that complements the creamy soup. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding in a scoop of your favorite salsa for a kick of flavor.

Common questions

How long does it take to make this soup?

From start to finish, you can have this soup ready in about 45 minutes, making it feasible even on busy weeknights.

Can I use vegetable broth instead?

Absolutely! If you’d prefer a vegetarian version, just substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and adjust the meat accordingly.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well! Just remember to store it in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for about 2-3 months in the freezer.

With this Creamy Cowboy Soup recipe, you’re set for success. Enjoy this delightful dish with friends and family; it’s bound to become a beloved part of your meal repertoire!

Creamy Cowboy Soup Recipe