Introduction to Cowboy Hamburger Soup
As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a meal that everyone will love. That’s where my cowboy hamburger soup comes in! This hearty dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Packed with ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and a medley of spices, it’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something comforting yet quick. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, this cowboy hamburger soup will become a family favorite in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Hamburger Soup
This cowboy hamburger soup is a lifesaver for busy days. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 45 minutes from start to finish. The rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a satisfying meal that warms the soul. Plus, it’s versatile! You can easily customize it with whatever veggies you have on hand. With every spoonful, you’ll feel the love and comfort that comes from a homemade dish.
Ingredients for Cowboy Hamburger Soup
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this cowboy hamburger soup a hit. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Olive oil: This is your base for sautéing. It adds a lovely richness to the soup.
- Onion: A small onion, finely diced, brings sweetness and depth to the flavor.
- Carrots: Three peeled and thinly sliced carrots add a pop of color and natural sweetness.
- Celery: Two celery sticks, thinly sliced, contribute a nice crunch and aromatic flavor.
- Canned corn: A 14-ounce can of corn, drained and rinsed, adds sweetness and texture.
- Canned green beans: Another 14-ounce can, drained and rinsed, for a hearty bite.
- Yukon gold potatoes: Three peeled and chopped potatoes make the soup filling and comforting.
- Ground beef: Two pounds of ground beef provide protein and heartiness to the dish.
- Canned diced tomatoes: A 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes, with juice, adds acidity and flavor.
- Canned diced tomatoes with green chilies: Another 14-ounce can for a spicy kick.
- Canned chili beans: A 14-ounce can, with juice, brings a rich, savory element.
- Garlic: Three cloves, minced, for that aromatic punch that makes everything better.
- Cumin: Two teaspoons of cumin add warmth and earthiness to the soup.
- Chili powder: One teaspoon for a hint of spice and depth.
- Oregano: One teaspoon of oregano brings a lovely herbal note.
- Kosher salt: One and a half teaspoons, or to taste, to enhance all the flavors.
- Ground black pepper: Half a teaspoon, or to taste, for a little kick.
- Beef broth: Four cups of beef broth to create a rich, flavorful base.
- Fresh cilantro or parsley: For garnish, adding a fresh touch to your finished dish.
Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Cowboy Hamburger Soup
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious cowboy hamburger soup. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a hearty meal in no time!
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large stock pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the finely diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery sticks. Sauté these veggies for about 5 minutes, or until they soften. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the 2 pounds of ground beef to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Stir occasionally until the beef is no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes. The browning process adds a rich flavor that makes this cowboy hamburger soup truly satisfying.
Step 3: Add Spices and Aromatics
Once the beef is browned, it’s time to add the magic! Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, oregano, Kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. This allows the spices to bloom, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the canned diced tomatoes, both with and without green chilies, along with the chili beans, corn, green beans, and chopped Yukon gold potatoes. Pour in 4 cups of beef broth to cover all the ingredients. Mix everything well, ensuring the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 15 minutes. This is when the potatoes become tender and the flavors deepen. Stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once your soup is ready, it’s time to serve! Ladle the cowboy hamburger soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley. This adds a lovely touch of color and freshness. Pair it with rustic bread or your favorite sides, and enjoy the comforting warmth of this hearty dish!
Tips for Success
- Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes during cooking.
- Don’t skip the sautéing step; it enhances the flavors of your cowboy hamburger soup.
- Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your family’s taste preferences.
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before adding them.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for easy reheating throughout the week.
Equipment Needed
- Large stock pot: Essential for cooking the soup. A Dutch oven works great too!
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and breaking up the ground beef.
- Cutting board and knife: For chopping vegetables easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure you get the right amounts of ingredients.
Variations of Cowboy Hamburger Soup
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for lentils or black beans for a hearty, meatless version.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra layer of heat.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded cheese just before serving for a creamy, indulgent touch.
- Low-Carb Version: Replace potatoes with cauliflower for a lighter, low-carb alternative.
Serving Suggestions for Cowboy Hamburger Soup
- Rustic Bread: Serve with crusty bread or warm cornbread for dipping.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the soup perfectly.
- Drinks: Pair with a chilled iced tea or a light red wine for a delightful meal.
- Presentation: Garnish with extra cilantro or parsley for a pop of color.
FAQs about Cowboy Hamburger Soup
Can I make cowboy hamburger soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables first. Then, transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
What can I serve with cowboy hamburger soup?
This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, cornbread, or a fresh green salad. You can also enjoy it with a side of tortilla chips for a fun crunch!
Can I freeze cowboy hamburger soup?
Yes! This soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
How can I make this soup spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce while cooking. You can also increase the chili powder for an extra kick!
Is cowboy hamburger soup gluten-free?
Yes! This cowboy hamburger soup is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Just ensure that any canned ingredients you use are labeled gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this cowboy hamburger soup is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will draw your family in, sparking conversations and laughter. Each spoonful is a reminder of the love and care you put into it. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this soup brings comfort and warmth to your table. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and let this hearty dish become a cherished part of your family’s culinary adventures!
Print
Cowboy hamburger soup: A delicious, hearty recipe!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and hearty cowboy hamburger soup that combines ground beef, vegetables, and spices for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 celery sticks, thinly sliced
- 14 ounces canned corn, drained and rinsed
- 14 ounces canned green beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 14 ounces canned diced tomatoes, with juice
- 14 ounces canned diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 14 ounces canned chili beans, with juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Kosher salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste
- 4 cups beef broth
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large stock pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery sticks. Cook until the vegetables soften and become tender, approximately 5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Cook and crumble the beef, stirring occasionally, until it is no longer pink.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, oregano, Kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and the garlic to become aromatic.
- Add the canned diced tomatoes, canned diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili beans, canned corn, green beans, and diced potatoes to the pot. Pour in the beef broth to cover the ingredients. Mix well.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for approximately 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the soup is ready, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve hot, paired with rustic bread or your choice of sides. Enjoy!
Notes
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
