Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Soup

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Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Soup: A Warm Hug in a Bowl

Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together tender ground beef, hearty potatoes, and a medley of vegetables in a rich tomato-based broth. This recipe has been passed down through generations, each adding their own touch to make it uniquely delicious. Perfect for chilly days or when you want a hearty meal ready without much fuss, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

This soup holds a special place in my heart, reminiscent of cozy family gatherings where the aroma of simmering soup filled the kitchen. The addition of sugar, a secret from my grandma Hazel, adds a touch of sweetness that balances the flavors perfectly. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this cowboy soup promises to warm hearts and satisfy appetites.

Ingredients and Their Roles

Main Ingredients:

2 lbs Ground beef: Provides hearty protein and flavor to the soup.

4 Yukon Gold Potatoes: Adds substance and texture to the soup.

2 Cans Mixed vegetables (Undrained): Contributes a variety of vegetables without losing the flavor from the canning liquid.

1 Can Sweet corn (Undrained): Adds sweetness and crunch to the soup.

1 Can Condensed tomato soup: Provides a rich, tomatoey base for the soup.

1 Can Petite diced tomatoes: Adds texture and acidity to balance the flavors.

1 Can Cut green beans (Undrained): Adds another layer of vegetables and flavor to the soup.

Pinch of Salt: Enhances the overall flavors.

Dash of Pepper: Adds a hint of spice.

2 Tablespoons Sugar: Grandma Hazel’s secret ingredient that adds a touch of sweetness and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation:

Prepare Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into small cubes. This ensures they cook evenly and become tender without disintegrating.

Cook Ground Beef:

Brown and Drain: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain off any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy. Browning the beef adds a depth of flavor through caramelization.

Combine Ingredients:

In the Slow Cooker: Place the cooked ground beef and cubed potatoes into a large slow cooker. The slow cooker will meld all the flavors together beautifully.

Add Vegetables and Soup:

Combine Canned Ingredients: Add the undrained cans of mixed vegetables, sweet corn, condensed tomato soup, petite diced tomatoes, and cut green beans to the slow cooker. Keeping the liquid from the cans helps enhance the soup’s flavor and provides the right consistency.

Seasoning:

Salt and Pepper: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a pinch and a dash, and adjust as needed at the end of cooking.

Add Sugar:

Grandma’s Touch: Sprinkle in the sugar, which adds a delightful hint of sweetness to the savory soup. This balances the acidity of the tomatoes and creates a more rounded flavor.

Mix and Cook:

Combine Well: Mix all the ingredients together well in the slow cooker to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Cooking Time:

Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 2-3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and the potatoes to become tender. The slow cooking process ensures a deep, rich flavor that develops over time.

Recipe Notes

Substitutions and Variations:

Fresh or Frozen Vegetables: Feel free to substitute fresh or frozen vegetables instead of canned ones. If using fresh vegetables, consider adding a can or two of beef stock to maintain the soup’s liquid and flavor balance.

Canned Vegetables: Using canned vegetables with their liquid enhances the flavor of the soup without needing additional broth.

Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and sugar according to your preferences.

Storage:

Refrigeration: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for a few days.

Freezing: It can be frozen for longer storage. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Conclusion

Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that celebrates the simplicity and heartiness of a well-made soup. With its tender beef, wholesome potatoes, and a variety of vegetables in a savory tomato broth, every spoonful is a taste of home. This soup not only fills the stomach but also warms the soul, making it perfect for cold winter nights or when you need a bit of comfort food.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and ease. It requires minimal preparation, making it ideal for busy days. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing you to enjoy the day while a delicious meal simmers away. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use pantry staples and create something truly special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: Minimal chopping and prep work make this soup a breeze to prepare.

Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of beef, potatoes, and a variety of vegetables in a rich tomato base creates a hearty and flavorful meal.

Versatile: Adapt the recipe to your liking with different vegetables or seasonings.

Great for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day and freezes well for future meals.

Family Favorite: Passed down through generations, this recipe has a special place in the hearts of many, promising to become a staple in your home too.

Enjoy this soup on its own or paired with crusty bread for a complete meal that warms both body and soul. Share it with loved ones and create lasting memories around a bowl of delicious homemade soup