Description

Creamy Cowboy Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish combining ground beef, potatoes, beans, corn, and a blend of smoky spices simmered to perfection in a rich beef broth, finished with creamy cheddar cheese and topped with fresh green onions and crunchy tortilla chips. This comforting soup is perfect for a filling meal that warm your soul.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Aromatics

1 lb Ground Beef (You can substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.)
1 medium Onion (Yellow or white onions work great.)
2 cloves Garlic (Fresh is best; garlic powder can be used if necessary.)

Liquid and Vegetables

4 cups Beef Broth (Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.)
14.5 oz Diced Tomatoes (Fire-roasted tomatoes can add extra flavor.)
1 cup Corn (Frozen or canned corn works beautifully.)
15 oz Black Beans (You can substitute any canned bean.)
3 medium Potatoes (Waxy potatoes are best for consistency.)

Spices and Seasonings

2 tbsp Smoked Paprika (Regular paprika can be used for a milder taste.)
1 tbsp Chili Powder (Adjust based on your heat preference.)
1 tsp Cumin (An essential flavor component.)
1 tsp Salt (Essential for flavor balancing.)
1 tsp Black Pepper (Essential for flavor balancing.)

Finishing Ingredients

1 cup Heavy Cream (Use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.)
1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Fresh cheese will melt beautifully.)
2 tbsp Green Onions (Adds freshness and crunch.)
1 cup Tortilla Chips (Perfect for scooping or topping.)

Instructions

Brown the beef: In a large Dutch oven, heat a splash of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it into smaller pieces as it cooks, stirring continuously. Sauté until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess grease.
Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, stirring well to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Add broth and vegetables: Pour in the beef broth and stir in the diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, and diced potatoes. Ensure all ingredients are coated with the liquid. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Season the soup: Add the smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Simmer the soup: Increase the heat to bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce it to low heat. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until the potatoes are tender.
Add cream and cheese: Once the potatoes are ready, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes over low heat to melt the cheese and create a creamy texture.
Serve and garnish: Ladle the warm Creamy Cowboy Soup into bowls, and if desired, top with sliced green onions or a handful of crunchy tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.

Notes

Substitute ground turkey for a leaner protein option.
Vegetarian adaptation can be made by using vegetable broth and omitting the meat, possibly substituting with an extra mix of beans or lentils.
Fire-roasted diced tomatoes add a smoky depth to the soup.
Use waxy potatoes such as Yukon Gold to maintain consistency and texture.
For dairy-free, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and omit or use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Adjust chili powder to control soup spiciness.
Tortilla chips can be crushed into the soup or used as a garnish on top.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Creamy Cowboy Soup, ground beef soup, hearty soup, cheesy soup, smoked paprika soup, cowboy recipe, beef soup, comfort food