Cowboy Soup Recipe

Name: Cowboy Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1 lb. ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 1 large green bell pepper, chopped; 4 cups beef broth; 1 (14.5 ounce) can mexican flavored diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 (15.5 ounce) can pinto beans, undrained; 1 (15.25 ounce) can corn, drained; 1 large baking potato, peeled and cubed; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; salt and pepper to taste

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 6 generous servings. Quantities are provided for the original version; cooking times and steps remain constant even if you scale the ingredients.

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
1 large green bell pepper, diced
4 cups beef broth
1 (14.5 oz) can Mexican-style diced tomatoes, with juice
1 (15.5 oz) can pinto beans, with liquid
1 (15.25 oz) can corn, drained
1 large baking potato, peeled and cut into cubes
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

Place a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Stir and break up the meat with a spatula until the beef loses its pink color and the onion softens, about 5 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
Add the diced green bell pepper, beef broth, diced tomatoes with juice, pinto beans, drained corn, cubed potato, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and cumin. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 40 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Season the stew with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve hot in bowls and enjoy.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 405
Total Fat: 15g (20% DV)
Saturated Fat: 5g (27% DV)
Cholesterol: 67mg (22% DV)
Sodium: 1211mg (53% DV)
Total Carbohydrate: 39g (14% DV)
Dietary Fiber: 8g (30% DV)
Total Sugars: 8g
Protein: 30g (60% DV)
Vitamin C: 30mg (33% DV)
Calcium: 116mg (9% DV)
Iron: 5mg (30% DV)
Potassium: 1200mg (26% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your caloric needs. Nutrient information is based on available data and may not account for all ingredients. Consult a healthcare professional if you are on a restrictive diet.

The Rich Heritage of Cowboy Soup

Cowboy Soup, a hearty and flavorful dish, traces its origins to the American West during the 19th century. Ranchers, cowboys, and settlers needed meals that were both nourishing and simple to prepare over open fires or camp stoves. The soup evolved from the practical need for a one-pot dish that could combine meat, vegetables, and beans to sustain hard-working hands during long days on the range. Its roots lie in frontier ingenuity, where ingredients were often limited to what could be preserved, carried, or quickly cooked in the wild.

Regional Variations Across the United States

While Cowboy Soup is widely associated with the Southwestern and Western United States, regional variations have emerged. In Texas, for example, the soup may feature spicier chili powders or smoked beef for added depth. In the Midwest, heartier versions with more potatoes, corn, and beans are common, reflecting local agricultural abundance. Some regions even incorporate fire-roasted tomatoes or a splash of barbecue sauce, giving the dish subtle local flair while maintaining its signature robust character.

Distinctive Features Compared to Similar Soups

Cowboy Soup stands apart from chili or minestrone by balancing richness with a variety of textures and flavors. Unlike chili, it is not exclusively thick and heavily spiced; it includes a blend of vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, and potatoes, providing a wholesome, stew-like consistency. Unlike minestrone, which emphasizes pasta and Italian herbs, Cowboy Soup relies on smoky, earthy seasonings like paprika, cumin, and Worcestershire sauce, highlighting its Western American identity.

Where Its Traditionally Served

This comforting soup is commonly found in family kitchens, local diners, and community events across the United States. It is especially popular during colder months and at gatherings such as potlucks, lodge meetings, or ranch-style dinners. Its reputation for being filling and easy to prepare makes it a favorite choice for casual meals where comfort and warmth are key. Leftovers are often reheated, as the flavors deepen over time, enhancing its homey appeal.

Fascinating Facts About Cowboy Soup

The term "cowboy" in the soup's name reflects both its Western heritage and the simplicity valued by ranch hands who relied on one-pot cooking.
Modern variations often include ingredients not available to 19th-century cowboys, such as canned beans and corn, demonstrating how recipes adapt over time.
It is known for being exceptionally freezer-friendly, making it a go-to option for meal prepping families.
Despite its humble origins, Cowboy Soup has gained recognition at food festivals and in cookbooks, celebrated for its robust flavor and versatility.
Some chefs incorporate smoked paprika or roasted peppers to mimic the smoky, open-fire flavors traditionally enjoyed on the range.

In essence, Cowboy Soup is more than a meal; it is a culinary snapshot of American history, capturing the ingenuity, practicality, and bold flavors of the frontier. Its enduring popularity stems from its adaptability, hearty ingredients, and ability to bring warmth and satisfaction to any table.

FAQ about Cowboy Soup Recipe

Yes, you can prepare this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and sauté the onions first, then add all other ingredients and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.

Absolutely. This soup freezes well. Portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Yes. You can substitute pinto beans with red beans or black beans, and green bell peppers with red or yellow peppers. Carrots, celery, or other vegetables can also be added according to taste.

The soup has a mild to medium spice level due to chili powder and paprika. You can adjust the spice by adding more chili powder or using a spicier variety of diced tomatoes.

Yes, you can use low-sodium beef broth and rinse canned beans and corn to reduce sodium. You can also use lean ground beef or turkey to lower fat content.

Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day. Prepare it ahead, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat before serving.

Yes, adding rice or small pasta is possible. Cook them separately and add them to the soup near the end to prevent overcooking and maintain texture.

To make it heartier, you can increase the amount of ground beef, add cubed beef roast, extra potatoes, or additional vegetables like carrots and celery.

Comments

SpeedyFarro4276

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

I haven't made it yet, looks like it would be delicious. Could this be made in a slow cooker?

AlWi

12/24/2024 01:44:15 AM

We loved it! The only thing I did differently was add more ground beef and potatoes. We like our soups pretty hearty. So I doubled everything and used 2.5 lbs of meat and around 4 medium baking potatoes. Delicious flavor!!

Lela

11/19/2024 04:47:07 PM

A great soup for a cold day! I loved the flavors and the soup would be great with cornbread. I did add a teaspoon of garlic and onion powder.

Wendy

08/18/2025 01:41:39 PM

This was simple quick and yummy! I threw it in the slow cooker and let it go! I did add more potatoes.

Christopher

08/22/2025 09:41:16 AM

I have to say this is one of those recipes that once youve had it before, you want it again and the next time its made it seems to get better everytime. I first had this at a Masonic Lodge meeting as one of the men had his wife make this for the meal for the night. All that was said from most of the men was that they wished that there would have been more. So I tried making at home and the results were the same. It very good on a cold day as it will really warm the insides up and its very hearty. The only thing I do differently is I add cubed beef roast to make it a little more meaty and let it slow simmer so that beef meat comes out really tender.

Cristie Burr

10/22/2024 06:41:26 PM

Great flavor and so easy to make. I used small yellow potatoes and added carrots, as I already had these. I have made this 2 times in the past month and will keep in my dinner rotation. Very hearty!

PurpleRind2432

12/29/2024 02:09:19 AM

Very good. I added carrots and garlic. Next time I'll use 1 1/2# of hamburger, and more vegetables.

RubyParm7229

05/26/2025 10:42:21 PM

Made this with some slight modifications for what we had in the pantry and it turned out great. I used fire roasted diced tomatoes, RoTel tomatoes, and fiesta corn. I substituted a red bell pepper instead of green because it’s what I had on hand. Also used red beans instead of pinto. And I added sautéed carrots and celery because I wanted to. 😁 It turned out absolutely delicious and will definitely be a repeat item in our house.

Roseanne Viau-Dolan

03/07/2025 08:23:32 PM

I made this without added salt and substituted red or yellow mini peppers for the green. I also liked ke to use Smoked Sweet Paprika with the beef. So delicious! I freeze half.

SereneTongs2728

05/07/2025 05:34:39 PM

I loved it. I've made is several times now. I use more potatoes than called for and sometimes I add 3/4 cup of rice. It's wonderful.

CleverGhee7313

06/12/2025 07:08:37 AM

I added two cloves crushed garlic to the ground meat and onion along with smoked paprika and spices. I use 90/10 ground beef. Lean and delicious!

DScott

08/26/2025 09:55:10 PM

Husband liked it and would eat again

CleverGhee7313

06/12/2025 07:08:37 AM

I added two cloves crushed garlic to the ground meat and onion along with smoked paprika and spices. I use 90/10 ground beef. Lean and delicious!

FizzySieve1561

04/15/2025 12:28:49 AM

I made a batch and shared some to my sister and her husband. I also shared some to my daughter and her husband. I did not put potato or green pepper in due to sensitive digestive systems. It is very easy to make. I added extra beans and rinsed them. And added extra beef broth. They want the recipe and asked me to make it again!

KAYLA KANE

03/19/2025 09:38:17 PM

Made this for the first time and the family loved it!

Gregg

01/30/2025 05:44:17 PM

easy recipe and hearty

Joyce Diaz

01/06/2025 08:43:25 PM

Made it last night and already planning to make it again.

Michelle Adams

12/22/2024 07:38:10 PM

Turned out super tasty and fresh.

France Cevallos

12/06/2024 04:23:02 PM

Super hearty and filling, perfect for those cold fall and winter days. The seasonings are spot-on, with no need to tweak anything. I froze half the batch for lunches later on. This is really good reheated too!

Carey R

12/01/2024 06:47:19 PM

This was easy to make and very delicious. My husband and I ate it for lunch and dinner. Served with tortillas--yummy!

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