Cowboy Soup

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or tortilla chips

Instructions

1. Cook the Meat:
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
   Add chopped onion and garlic to the pot. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Add the Rest of the Ingredients:
   Stir in beans, diced tomatoes, corn, and beef broth. Season with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Simmer:
   Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
5. Serve:
   Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes such as shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or crushed tortilla chips.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with cornbread or fresh dinner rolls for a hearty meal.
• Serve with tortilla chips for extra crunch and flavor.
• Add a side salad for a lighter, balanced meal.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for a convenient make-ahead dinner.

Tips for the Best Cowboy Soup

• Use a mix of beans: Kidney beans, black beans, or pinto beans all work to add texture and protein.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper if you like extra heat.
• Enhance flavor: Brown the meat well and don’t skip the sautéing step for the onions and garlic — it adds depth to the soup.
• Make it vegetarian: Swap the ground beef with extra beans, lentils, or a meat substitute.

A True Comfort Classic

Cowboy Soup is more than just a soup — it’s a bowl of warmth, comfort, and hearty flavor that brings a touch of the Wild West to your kitchen. Perfect for weeknights, game days, or any time you want a meal that satisfies every appetite, this cowboy-inspired recipe proves that simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavors.

One bowl, packed with bold, rustic flavor, and plenty of leftovers for later — that’s the magic of Cowboy Soup.