Are you looking for a warm and comforting meal that’s perfect for weeknights?
Look no further! This Creamy Cowboy Soup is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a great option for those chilly evenings. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also easy to prepare, ensuring you’ll have more quality time with family or friends.
Why Make This Recipe
This soup is a crowd-pleaser with its rich, creamy base and a blend of wholesome ingredients. It’s versatile, allowing for easy substitutions based on your dietary preferences, whether you choose beef, turkey, or a vegetarian alternative. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means fewer dishes to wash!
How To Make Creamy Cowboy Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Ground Beef (or turkey or meat alternative)
- 1 large Onion (yellow or white for best flavor)
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 4 cups Beef Broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 14.5 oz Diced Tomatoes (canned with juice)
- 1 cup Corn (canned or frozen)
- 15 oz Black Beans (drained and rinsed if canned)
- 2 medium Potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet, diced small)
- 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika
- 1 tbsp Chili Powder (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Salt (adjust to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (fresh cheese preferred)
3-Step Directions:
- Brown the Beef & Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion turns translucent.
- Simmer the Soup: Stir in beef broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), corn, black beans, and diced potatoes. Season with smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
- Finish & Serve: Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, allowing the cheese to melt into the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve hot.
Prep Time And Nutrition Facts
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making a total of 30 minutes. It serves 4 people, and each serving has about 350 calories, 20g of protein, and 22g of fat.
How To Serve Creamy Cowboy Soup
Serve this delicious soup warm, garnished with a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese and perhaps some fresh cilantro or green onions for added flavor. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
How To Store Creamy Cowboy Soup
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Remember to let it cool before transferring to the freezer, and thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips To Make Creamy Cowboy Soup
- For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or use spicy chili powder.
- For added nutrition, toss in some chopped spinach or kale just before serving.
- If you like it thicker, mash some of the potatoes in the soup before adding the cream and cheese.
Health And Benefits Of This Recipe
This Creamy Cowboy Soup is not only hearty but also nutritious. It provides a good source of protein from the meat and beans, while the vegetables offer essential vitamins and minerals. The inclusion of creamy dairy or coconut milk adds healthy fats, making it a balanced and satisfying meal option.
Variation (If Any)
You can easily make this soup vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. Additionally, feel free to swap in other vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, chicken works well in this soup! Ground chicken or shredded cooked chicken are great options.Is there a way to make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding a splash of hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or fresh herbs like thyme or oregano.Can I use different beans?
Yes, feel free to swap black beans with kidney beans, pinto beans, or any preferred variety.How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Replace the meat with lentils or plant-based meat and use vegetable broth.How long does it take to cook the potatoes?
The potatoes should simmer for about 15 minutes or until fork-tender.Can I double this recipe for a bigger serving?
Absolutely! Just make sure you have a large enough pot to hold all the ingredients.
Enjoy making your Cozy Weeknight Delight with this Creamy Cowboy Soup!
Creamy Cowboy Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion turns translucent.
- Stir in beef broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), corn, black beans, and diced potatoes. Season with smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, allowing the cheese to melt into the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve hot.
