Cowboy Soup Kind Meal has a way of bringing everyone to the table, doesn’t it? I remember one chilly evening when I first tried making this, and the aroma alone had my family peeking into the kitchen, eager to see what deliciousness was bubbling away. It’s a truly hearty cowboy stew that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Making this easy cowboy soup is surprisingly simple, even for beginners. If you’ve ever wondered how to make cowboy soup that’s both incredibly flavorful and deeply satisfying, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Soup Kind Meal
This Cowboy Soup Kind Meal is a winner for so many reasons! It’s incredibly flavorful, packed with savory ground beef and creamy Velveeta, making it a truly comforting dish. You’ll love how quickly it comes together; the prep time is minimal, meaning you can have a delicious meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a budget-friendly option that uses common pantry staples and ground beef, making it perfect for feeding a family without breaking the bank. This hearty cowboy stew is also a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both kids and adults. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get your veggies in without anyone complaining! For a truly satisfying meal, this hearty cowboy stew is a must-try.
Ingredients for Cowboy Soup Kind Meal
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this incredible cowboy soup with ground beef. I always make sure to have these on hand for a quick and satisfying meal!
- 1 lb lean ground beef – the savory foundation of our cowboy soup
- 16 oz Velveeta, cubed – this is the secret to its creamy, cheesy goodness
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated – for an extra layer of flavor
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped – adds a touch of sweetness and depth
- 4 small potatoes, chopped – these make it a hearty cowboy stew
- 1 red bell pepper, seeds removed, diced – for a hint of color and mild sweetness
- 13.25 oz can corn kernels, rinsed and drained – adds a pop of sweetness and texture
- 13.25 oz can black beans, rinsed and drained – for fiber and heartiness
- 4 oz can green chiles – a little kick to make it interesting
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken or beef broth – the liquid base for our cowboy soup
- 2.5 cups whole milk – essential for that rich, creamy texture
- 0.25 cup all-purpose flour – used to thicken the soup
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter – for sautéing the vegetables and making the roux
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) – for a touch of heat
- Bacon bits (optional, for topping)
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make Cowboy Soup Kind Meal
This simple cowboy soup recipe is surprisingly straightforward, even for a weeknight. Let’s get this hearty cowboy stew simmering!
- Step 1: Start by making a quick roux. In a medium saucepan, melt the 0.25 cup unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Whisk in the 0.25 cup all-purpose flour and cook, whisking constantly, for about 2-3 minutes until it turns a lovely golden color. Slowly whisk in the 2.5 cups whole milk, season with a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper, and continue whisking until smooth and slightly thickened. Set this creamy mixture aside.
- Step 2: Now, let’s brown the beef. In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, cook the 1 lb lean ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s nicely browned. Season it with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Drain off most of the fat, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pot.
- Step 3: Add the aromatics and vegetables. Toss the 1 yellow onion, finely chopped, 4 small potatoes, chopped, and 1 red bell pepper, seeds removed, diced into the pot with the beef drippings. Cook these for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and the onion is translucent. Season this mixture with 1 teaspoon cumin, 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper (if using), and more salt and pepper to taste. This step really builds the flavor for this simple cowboy soup recipe.
- Step 4: Bring it all together. Stir in the 13.25 oz can corn kernels, 13.25 oz can black beans, and 4 oz can green chiles. Return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Pour in the 3 cups low-sodium chicken or beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine.
- Step 5: Let it simmer. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Step 6: Finish and thicken. Stir in the reserved milk mixture from Step 1. Then, add the 16 oz Velveeta, cubed. Continue to stir gently until the Velveeta is completely melted and the cowboy soup has thickened to a wonderfully creamy consistency. Cook for another 10-15 minutes, until everything is hot and bubbly. This is the magic moment where your simple cowboy soup recipe transforms!
- Step 7: Serve it up! Ladle the hot cowboy soup into bowls. Top with the 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated and bacon bits if you like. Enjoy this ultimate cowboy dinner soup!
Pro Tips for the Best Cowboy Soup Kind Meal
Here are a few tricks I’ve picked up to make this cowboy soup truly shine:
- Don’t skip the roux! That butter and flour mixture is key to achieving a perfectly thick and creamy cowboy soup, not watery.
- For an extra smoky flavor, consider using smoked paprika instead of or in addition to cumin. It really elevates this hearty cowboy stew.
- Taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process. Every batch can be a little different, so make sure it’s perfect for your palate.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-diced vegetables from the grocery store to speed up the prep for this easy cowboy soup.
What’s the secret to perfect Cowboy Soup Kind Meal?
The secret to a perfect, old fashioned cowboy soup is the combination of the creamy roux made with butter and flour, and the Velveeta cheese. This creates that signature rich, velvety texture that makes it so comforting and delicious. For more comforting recipes, check out these cheesy scalloped potatoes.
Can I make Cowboy Soup Kind Meal ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire cowboy soup kind meal up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You might need to add a splash more milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cowboy Soup Kind Meal?
A common mistake is not cooking the roux long enough, which can leave a floury taste. Another pitfall is overcooking the potatoes, making them mushy. Ensure you stir the soup frequently once the Velveeta is added to prevent it from sticking or scorching on the bottom of the pot. For more cooking tips, you might find resources on how to make a roux helpful.
Best Ways to Serve Cowboy Soup Kind Meal
This Cowboy Soup Kind Meal is so versatile, it’s perfect for any occasion! I love serving it on a cold evening as a complete cowboy dinner soup. For a truly satisfying meal, pair it with some crusty bread for dipping into that cheesy goodness, or maybe some cranberry feta pinwheels. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette also cuts through the richness beautifully. You could even top it with some extra shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream for an extra decadent touch. It’s a hearty and comforting dish that always hits the spot!
Nutrition Facts for Cowboy Soup Kind Meal
When you’re enjoying a bowl of this delicious Cowboy Soup Kind Meal, here’s what you can expect per serving. It’s a hearty meal that satisfies!
- Calories: Approx. 550 kcal
- Fat: Approx. 35g
- Saturated Fat: Approx. 20g
- Protein: Approx. 25g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 30g
- Fiber: Approx. 5g
- Sugar: Approx. 8g
- Sodium: Approx. 1200mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used. For more information on nutritional guidelines, consult resources like the MyPlate website.
How to Store and Reheat Cowboy Soup Kind Meal
This Cowboy Soup Kind Meal is fantastic for leftovers, making it perfect for when you’ve cooked cowboy soup for a crowd! Once the soup has cooled down slightly, transfer it into airtight containers. For refrigeration, it will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. If you need to store it for longer, this hearty cowboy stew freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just make sure the containers are freezer-safe.
To reheat, you can either thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator and then gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, or microwave individual portions until heated through. You might need to add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to restore its creamy consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cowboy Soup Kind Meal
What is cowboy soup?
Cowboy soup, often called a cowboy dinner soup or hearty cowboy stew, is a thick, flavorful, and comforting soup typically made with ground beef, beans, corn, and sometimes potatoes and cheese. It’s designed to be a filling, one-pot meal that evokes the spirit of the American West, much like a chuckwagon soup recipe. My cowboy soup kind meal recipe is a creamy, cheesy version that’s incredibly satisfying. If you enjoy hearty meals, you might also like these beef and cheese chimichangas.
Can I make this a vegetarian cowboy soup?
Yes, you absolutely can! To make a vegetarian cowboy soup, simply omit the ground beef. You can replace it with extra beans, corn, or even some diced plant-based sausage for added heartiness. Ensure you use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth. This variation still delivers that classic cowboy soup flavor profile you’ll love.
How do I make this cowboy soup spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat in your cowboy soup, there are several ways to amp up the spice! You can add a pinch or two of cayenne pepper along with the cumin and garlic powder. Diced jalapeños, either fresh or canned, can be added with the bell pepper. For a smoky heat, try adding some chipotle pepper in adobo sauce or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the soup base. These additions will give your cowboy soup a delightful kick.
What’s the best way to thicken cowboy soup if it’s too thin?
If your cowboy soup kind meal ends up a little thinner than you like, don’t worry! You can easily thicken it by making a slurry. In a small bowl, whisk together a tablespoon or two of cornstarch or all-purpose flour with an equal amount of cold water or milk until smooth. Stir this slurry into the simmering soup and cook for a few minutes until it reaches your desired thickness. This simple cowboy soup trick works wonders!
Variations of Cowboy Soup Kind Meal You Can Try
This Cowboy Soup Kind Meal is so adaptable, you can easily tweak it to suit your preferences. Exploring different cowboy soup variations is part of the fun! For a lighter option, you can reduce the amount of Velveeta or swap some of the milk for more broth. If you’re looking for a vegetarian cowboy soup, simply omit the ground beef and add an extra can of beans or some plant-based sausage for heartiness. You can also adapt the cooking method; while this recipe is a stovetop wonder, you could try it in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding the Velveeta and cheese at the end. For a smoky cowboy soup, add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce or a bit of smoked paprika. For other hearty dinner ideas, consider these dinner recipes.
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Cowboy Soup Kind Meal: 4 Ingredient Secret
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cowboy Soup is a hearty, cheesy meal that’s easy to make and feeds a crowd. It’s packed with ground beef, vegetables, Velveeta, and flavorful seasonings for a comforting dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 16 oz Velveeta, cubed
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 4 small potatoes, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, seeds removed, diced
- 13.25 oz can corn kernels, rinsed and drained
- 13.25 oz can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 4 oz can green chiles
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken or beef broth
- 2.5 cups whole milk
- 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Bacon bits (optional, for topping)
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium-high heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 2-3 minutes until golden. Whisk in milk, season with salt and pepper, and set aside.
- In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Remove beef, leaving 2 tablespoons of fat in the pot.
- Add onion, potatoes, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook for 10-12 minutes until softened. Season with cumin, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
- Add corn, black beans, and green chiles to the pot. Return ground beef to the pot and stir in broth.
- Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 15 minutes.
- Stir in the prepared milk mixture, then add cubed Velveeta. Cover and cook for another 15 minutes, until cheese is melted and the Cowboy Soup is thick and creamy.
- Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar and bacon bits if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier Cowboy Soup, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- This Cowboy Soup freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approx. 550 kcal
- Sugar: Approx. 8g
- Sodium: Approx. 1200mg
- Fat: Approx. 35g
- Saturated Fat: Approx. 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approx. 15g
- Trans Fat: Approx. 1g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 30g
- Fiber: Approx. 5g
- Protein: Approx. 25g
- Cholesterol: Approx. 100mg