Crock Pot Cowboy Soup
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
– 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions
Instructions:
1. In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
2. Transfer the cooked beef to your Crock Pot.
3. Add diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Transfer them to the Crock Pot.
4. Add diced tomatoes (with their juices), kidney beans, black beans, corn, and diced green chilies to the Crock Pot.
5. Pour beef broth over the ingredients in the Crock Pot.
6. Add chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the Crock Pot. Stir to combine all ingredients.
7. Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until flavors meld and vegetables are tender.
8. Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions if desired
tips and variations for your Crock Pot Cowboy Soup:
1. **Additions**: Feel free to customize the soup by adding more vegetables like diced carrots, bell peppers, or celery. You can also throw in some diced potatoes for extra heartiness.
2. **Spice Level**: If you like your soup spicy, consider adding a diced jalapeño pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. Adjust the amount of chili powder and green chilies according to your spice preference.
3. **Beans**: While the recipe calls for kidney beans and black beans, you can use any combination of beans you prefer. Pinto beans or white beans would also work well in this soup.
4. **Meat**: Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian version, you can omit the meat altogether or substitute it with plant-based ground “meat.”
5. **Broth**: Beef broth adds a rich flavor to the soup, but you can also use chicken or vegetable broth if preferred. For a deeper flavor, consider using homemade broth.
6. **Cooking Time**: The cooking time can vary depending on your Crock Pot’s settings and the size of the ingredients. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure that the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well-developed.
7. **Leftovers**: This soup reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for several days. It also freezes well, so you can portion out leftovers for future
1. **Tomato Variations**: Instead of
using canned diced tomatoes, you can try using fire-roasted tomatoes for a smokier flavor. You can also use tomato sauce or tomato paste for a thicker base.
2. **Herbs and Seasonings**: Enhance the flavor of the soup by adding dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or smoked paprika. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also be added at the end for a burst of freshness.
3. **Toppings**: Get creative with your soup toppings! In addition to shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions, consider adding crushed tortilla chips, diced avocado, or a squeeze of lime juice for extra texture and flavor.
4. **Slow Cooker Size**: Make sure your Crock Pot is the right size for the recipe. If you have a smaller slow cooker, you may need to halve the recipe or adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly to prevent overflowing.
5. **Make it Creamy**: For a creamy variation, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of the cooking time. This will add richness and depth to the soup.
6. **Bulk Cooking**: This soup recipe is great for batch cooking. Double or triple the ingredients to make a larger batch, then portion it out into freezer-safe containers for convenient meals later on.
7. **Serve with Cornbread**: Pair your Cowboy Soup with homemade cornbread or cornbread muffins for a classic and satisfying combination.
8. **Garnish Ideas**: Experiment with different garnishes such as sliced jalapeños, crispy bacon bits, or a dollop of guacamole for added flavor and visual appeal.
Certainly! Here are a few more ideas to enhance your Crock Pot Cowboy Soup:
1. **Smoked Meat**: Consider using smoked sausage or smoked brisket instead of ground beef for a rich, smoky flavor. You can also add a few drops of liquid smoke to enhance the smokiness.
2. **Grains**: Add a grain like barley, quinoa, or rice to make the soup even heartier. Just be sure to adjust the amount of broth accordingly, as grains will absorb liquid as they cook.
3. **Tex-Mex Twist**: Give your soup a Tex-Mex twist by adding a can of diced green or red bell peppers, a teaspoon of chipotle powder for smokiness and heat, and a handful of chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.
4. **Italian Variation**: For an Italian-inspired version, swap the chili powder and cumin for Italian seasoning blend and add a can of cannellini beans instead of kidney beans. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.
5. **Vegan or Vegetarian**: Make the soup vegan or vegetarian-friendly by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini, squash, or spinach for added nutrition.
6. **Tangy Twist**: Stir in a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lime juice just before serving to add a tangy kick to the soup.
7. **Slow Cooker Liners**: To make cleanup easier, consider using slow cooker liners before adding the ingredients. These disposable liners can save you time and effort when it comes to washing up.
8. **Meal Prep**: This soup is perfect for meal prep! Divide it into individual portions and store them in airtight containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.
This recipe is perfect for a comforting and flavorful meal, especially during colder weather. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences, and feel free to add any additional vegetables or spices you like.
Enjoy
