Hearty, flavorful, and easy — this cowboy soup is packed with beef, beans, veggies, and spices, slow-cooked to perfection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Slow Cooker Meal: Set it and forget it for busy days.

• Hearty & Filling: Loaded with beef, beans, and veggies to satisfy hunger.

• Flavorful & Spiced: Classic southwestern spices give it a smoky, savory kick.

• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or extra heat as you like.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)

• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained

• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional)

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack, for serving)

• Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish (optional)

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6–8 hours (low)
Total Time: 6–8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Directions

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook 3–5 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Transfer to Crockpot

Move the cooked meat and veggies to the crockpot.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Add beef broth, diced tomatoes with juices, black beans, corn, green chilies (if using), chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 5: Add Optional Veggies

Stir in frozen mixed vegetables if desired.

Step 6: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 8: Serve

Serve soup topped with shredded cheese and garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Add Heat: Stir in diced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra spice.

• Make it Vegetarian: Swap beef for extra beans and vegetable broth.

• Extra Creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or sour cream before serving.

• Leftovers: Soup keeps well refrigerated for 3–4 days and freezes beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned ground beef instead of fresh?

Fresh browned beef is recommended for best flavor and texture.

Can I prepare this soup without browning the meat first?

Yes, but browning adds extra depth and richness to the soup.

What can I substitute for beef broth?

Chicken broth or vegetable broth work fine as substitutes.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Cowboy Soup is the ultimate easy, comforting meal for chilly days or anytime you want a fuss-free, hearty dinner. The slow cooker does the work while you relax, delivering rich flavor and satisfying texture every time.