Winter is here and the nights are getting chilly. You need a meal that feels like a warm hug. This Easy Creamy Cowboy Soup is the perfect solution for your family. It is thick, hearty, and full of bold flavors. You can have a steaming bowl ready in under an hour. Your whole family will feel cozy and full after every bite.
There is nothing quite like the smell of a savory soup on the stove. This recipe brings together the best of southwestern flavors. It is a meal that satisfies even the biggest appetites. You will love how the creamy broth coats every ingredient. It is a simple way to bring everyone to the table. Let’s get cooking this comforting winter favorite.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This soup is a dream for busy parents everywhere. It is a one-pot wonder that saves you from doing extra dishes. The combination of beef and potatoes is very filling. It is also quite budget-friendly for large families. Your kids will love the creamy, cheesy broth. It is the ultimate comfort food for a snowy day.
This recipe uses simple pantry staples you likely have already. You won’t need a special trip to the store for fancy items. The potatoes provide a wonderful, natural thickness to the broth. Black beans and corn add great texture and bright color. It is a balanced meal served in just one bowl. You get protein, fiber, and veggies all at once.
Simple Cooking Steps
You will love how simple this recipe is to follow. First, you brown your meat and onions together in the pot. Then, you let the veggies simmer until they are tender. Finishing with cream cheese makes the texture incredibly silky. Even a beginner cook can master this dish easily. It is a foolproof way to make a delicious dinner.
The prep work is very minimal and fast for you. You only need about fifteen minutes of chopping. Most of the time is spent letting the soup simmer. This gives you time to help with homework. Or you can simply relax for a few minutes. The one-pot method keeps your kitchen clean and tidy all night.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on fresh produce and simple canned goods for the best flavor.
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups russet potatoes, peeled and cubed into 1/2-inch pieces
- 15 oz canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 15 oz canned whole kernel corn, drained
- 10 oz canned diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step Directions
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion until the beef is fully cooked and onions are translucent.
- Drain any excess grease from the pot using a colander or spoon.
- Stir in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper and cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the cubed potatoes, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Reduce heat to low and add the cubed cream cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the broth is creamy.
- Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this Easy Creamy Cowboy Soup hot in deep bowls. You can top it with a little extra cheddar. A dollop of sour cream adds a nice tang. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping. Set the table and enjoy a quiet moment. This is perfect for a casual winter gathering.
For a fun twist, try serving it in bread bowls. This makes the meal feel extra special for kids. You can also set out a toppings bar. Let everyone choose favorites like avocado or cilantro. It makes dinner feel like a fun family event. Everyone gets exactly what they like in their bowl.
How to Store Easy Creamy Cowboy Soup
Leftovers of this soup taste even better the next day. Store it in the fridge for three days. Use a sealed container to keep it fresh. When you reheat it, use the stove on low. You might need to add a splash of milk. This makes it a great meal prep option. It is so easy to grab for lunch.
Make sure the soup cools down before you lid it. This prevents too much moisture from building up inside. If the soup thickens too much, don’t worry. A little extra beef broth will thin it out. It reheats beautifully in the microwave for a quick bite. This is a lifesaver for busy afternoons.
Tips for Best Results
- Cut potatoes into small, even pieces for fast cooking.
- Don’t skip draining the beef to avoid greasy soup.
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth finish.
- Add the cheddar slowly so it melts evenly.
- Keep the heat low at the end to prevent curdling.
- Peel the potatoes fully for a smoother mouthfeel.
- Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pot.
- Double the recipe if you are feeding a holiday crowd.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Use ground turkey for a leaner, lighter meal.
- Add jalapeños if you want a spicy kick.
- Try pinto beans instead of black beans.
- Stir in some spinach for extra greens.
- Swap russet potatoes for sweet potatoes in the fall.
Common Questions
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can brown the beef and then slow cook. Add the cheeses at the very end of cooking. This keeps the broth from separating over time.
What potatoes are best for this soup?
Russet potatoes are great because they add natural thickness. Yukon Gold potatoes also work well for a creamier texture. Just be sure to cut them into small cubes.
Is this soup freezer friendly?
I do not recommend freezing this specific recipe. The cream cheese and cheddar can change texture when frozen. It is best enjoyed fresh or from the fridge.
I hope this creamy soup brings warmth to your home. It is a favorite in my kitchen during winter. Give it a try and see the smiles tonight!
— Lidia
Easy Creamy Cowboy Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups russet potatoes, peeled and cubed into 1/2-inch pieces
- 15 oz canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 15 oz canned whole kernel corn, drained
- 10 oz canned diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 4 cups low -sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion until the beef is fully cooked and onions are translucent.
- Drain any excess grease from the pot using a colander or spoon.
- Stir in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper and cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the cubed potatoes, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Reduce heat to low and add the cubed cream cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the broth is creamy.
- Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately.
