Cowboy Hamburger Soup

Cowboy Hamburger Soup is the ultimate hearty comfort food that brings together bold Tex-Mex flavors with wholesome ingredients. This soup is packed with seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a variety of beans and veggies, making it a one-pot meal the whole family will love. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want leftovers that taste even better the next day, this easy-to-make dish is a winner. With a kick of spice from chipotle and chili powder and the richness of beef broth, Cowboy Hamburger Soup is a soul-warming meal perfect for any season.

Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Hamburger Soup

This soup is the definition of satisfying. It combines protein-rich ground beef and beans with a medley of veggies, all simmered in a seasoned tomato-beef broth. The chipotle in adobo adds a smoky heat, while the cumin and chili powder give it that unmistakable cowboy flavor. It’s budget-friendly, freezer-friendly, and meal-prep approved. Plus, it’s ready in under an hour with minimal hands-on time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cold winter days, or when you need a meal that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained
• 12 ounces honey gold potatoes, small diced
• 1 (32-ounce) carton reduced sodium beef broth
• 2 cups frozen mixed veggies
• 1 chipotle in adobo, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Toppings:

• Shredded cheese
• Sour cream

Step-by-Step: How to Make Cowboy Hamburger Soup

1. In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned. Drain the excess fat, leaving about one tablespoon in the pot.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and sugar. Stir and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture is fragrant.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, Rotel, kidney beans, pinto beans, diced potatoes, beef broth, frozen veggies, chipotle in adobo, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine everything thoroughly.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in the tomato paste and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve it hot, garnished with shredded cheese and a generous spoonful of sour cream.

Helpful Tips

• Browning the beef well adds extra flavor depth to the soup.
• Use a potato variety that holds shape well when cooked, like honey gold or Yukon gold.
• Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of chipotle in adobo.
• A squeeze of lime just before serving can brighten up the flavors.

Substitutions And Variations

• Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: A great option if you’re looking for a leaner alternative to beef.
• Try Different Beans: Black beans or white beans can be used depending on your preference or pantry stock.
• Veggies: Add bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
• Spice Level: Add jalapeños or hot sauce if you prefer it spicier.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add extra beans or lentils with vegetable broth.

Storage Instructions

Cowboy Hamburger Soup stores beautifully:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Cool the soup completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store in meal prep containers for grab-and-go lunches.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Protein: 13g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 422mg
• Potassium: 502mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 1g
• Vitamin A: 2406 IU
• Vitamin C: 14mg
• Calcium: 36mg
• Iron: 2mg

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a slice of crusty bread or a piece of warm cornbread for a hearty, complete meal.
• Complement the richness of the soup with a crisp side salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette.
• Offer additional toppings like chopped green onions, avocado, or crushed tortilla chips.
• A dollop of guacamole or a sprinkle of hot sauce can elevate the flavor even more.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cowboy Hamburger Soup

Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes, you can! Start by browning the beef and onions on the stove. Then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.

Is Cowboy Hamburger Soup spicy? It has a mild to medium heat from the chili powder and chipotle. You can adjust the spice to your preference.

Can I freeze Cowboy Hamburger Soup? Absolutely. Allow the soup to cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers. It keeps well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of chipotle in adobo? You can use a dash of smoked paprika or a bit of hot sauce to add a similar smoky heat.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen? Definitely. Just make sure to chop them small so they cook evenly in the soup.

Conclusion

Thank you so much for stopping by to try this Cowboy Hamburger Soup recipe. It’s truly one of those comforting meals that checks all the boxes: easy, filling, flavorful, and family-approved. I love how the spicy-smoky kick pairs with the rich broth and hearty ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner fix or planning ahead for a busy week, this recipe has you covered. I hope you enjoy every spoonful and feel the warmth it brings to your kitchen. Happy cooking, and I appreciate you being part of this food-loving community!

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