Creamy Cowboy Soup Recipe

Cook Time: 35 minutes

This rich and comforting soup is packed with smoky bacon, tender beef, vegetables, and a creamy broth. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this recipe makes 8 generous servings. Cooking times remain the same regardless of portion size, though flavors may intensify when scaled.

Ingredients

• 3 slices bacon
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup evaporated milk
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can (15 oz) ranch-style beans
• 1 can (15 oz) corn
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 3/4 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium-high heat until evenly browned, about 8 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain, then chop into small pieces once cooled.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually add the evaporated milk, whisking constantly. Cook for 2 minutes, until slightly thickened, then remove from the heat and set aside.
3. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until nearly translucent.
4. Add the ground beef and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
5. Stir in the chopped bacon, tomatoes with green chilies, beans, and corn. Pour in the beef broth and add the diced potatoes. Mix well.
6. Season with garlic granules, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
7. Stir the prepared evaporated milk mixture into the soup until combined. Serve hot.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Servings: 8

• Calories: 433
• Total Fat: 19g (25%)
• Saturated Fat: 8g (38%)
• Cholesterol: 69mg (23%)
• Sodium: 967mg (42%)
• Total Carbohydrates: 41g (15%)
• Dietary Fiber: 5g (19%)
• Total Sugars: 9g
• Protein: 26g (52%)
• Vitamin C: 13mg (15%)
• Calcium: 122mg (9%)
• Iron: 4mg (22%)
• Potassium: 1110mg (24%)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient data may vary depending on ingredient brands and measurements.

The History and Origins of Creamy Cowboy Soup

Creamy Cowboy Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that has its roots in the American West. Inspired by the meals prepared by cowboys on long cattle drives, this soup combines simple, accessible ingredients such as beef, beans, corn, and potatoes. The addition of evaporated milk for creaminess is a later adaptation, bringing a richer texture while maintaining the rustic, no-nonsense character that made the original cowboy meals practical for life on the range. Over the decades, it evolved from a straightforward stew to a more refined soup suitable for family dinners and modern kitchens.

Regional Variations

Though its origin lies in the western United States, Creamy Cowboy Soup has seen regional adaptations. In Texas and New Mexico, it often incorporates diced green chilies or jalapeos for a subtle heat, reflecting local spice preferences. Midwestern versions emphasize potatoes and beans to create a more filling meal, while some Southern interpretations include a touch of smoked bacon or sausage for additional depth of flavor. Each region tweaks the spices and types of beans used, making the soup both versatile and culturally reflective of local tastes.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional chili, which is typically tomato-based and heavily spiced, Creamy Cowboy Soup is distinguished by its smooth, creamy broth and balance of vegetables, meat, and legumes. While it shares ingredients with other Western-style stews, the key difference is the addition of a lightly thickened evaporated milk mixture, which creates a comforting, velvety texture. This sets it apart from chunky beef-and-bean soups, giving it a more indulgent yet still rustic character.

Typical Serving Occasions

This soup is often served during colder months, making it a popular choice for fall and winter gatherings. It is commonly featured at casual family dinners, potlucks, and even camping trips due to its hearty nature and ease of preparation. In restaurants, it is frequently offered as a starter or main dish in diners and steakhouses, often garnished with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh herbs to enhance its visual appeal and flavor profile.

Interesting Facts

• Cowboys historically relied on dried beans, salted meat, and preserved vegetables, which inspired the combination of ingredients in this soup.
• The use of evaporated milk in soups became popular in the early 20th century as a convenient way to add creaminess without fresh dairy.
• Many modern variations now include ground turkey, lamb, or even vegetarian substitutes while maintaining the signature creamy consistency.
• Some culinary historians consider Creamy Cowboy Soup a symbolic dish representing the ingenuity and resourcefulness of frontier cooking.
• Its popularity has grown beyond the United States, often featured in cooking blogs and family recipe collections worldwide.

FAQ about Creamy Cowboy Soup Recipe

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