Introduction
Creamy Cowboy Soup is the kind of meal that feels like a warm blanket on a cold day. It is rich, filling, and deeply comforting, combining tender meat, vegetables, and a creamy broth into one satisfying bowl. What I love most about this soup is how it transforms simple, pantry-friendly ingredients into something bold and nourishing. The first time I made it, I was looking for a one-pot dinner that could feed everyone without much effort, and this recipe delivered perfectly. The creamy base softens the spices and ties all the ingredients together, while the hearty additions make it substantial enough to stand alone as a full meal. This soup is ideal for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or meal prep, as it reheats beautifully. Creamy Cowboy Soup is rustic, generous, and designed to please even the heartiest appetites.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup is rich and filling without being complicated. It is made in one pot, packed with flavor, and easy to customize based on what you have on hand. The creamy texture balances the savory ingredients perfectly, making it a dependable comfort food favorite.
Print
Creamy Cowboy Soup (Hearty, Comforting, and Full of Flavor)
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A rich and hearty Creamy Cowboy Soup loaded with ground beef, potatoes, beans, corn, and a creamy broth, perfect for a comforting and filling meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add potatoes, corn, pinto beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
- Season with smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning, add cheddar cheese if using, and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Add jalapeños for extra heat.
- Serve with crusty bread or cornbread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground beef
Ground beef provides the hearty, savory foundation of the soup, making it filling and protein-rich.
Onion
Onion adds sweetness and depth, forming the aromatic base of the soup.
Garlic
Garlic enhances the savory profile and brings warmth to the broth.
Potatoes
Potatoes add substance and texture, absorbing the flavors of the soup as they cook.
Corn
Corn adds subtle sweetness and a pleasant contrast to the creamy base.
Kidney beans
Kidney beans contribute protein and a creamy bite that complements the beef.
Diced tomatoes
Tomatoes add acidity and balance, preventing the soup from feeling too heavy.
Beef broth
Beef broth forms the savory backbone of the soup and ties all the ingredients together.
Heavy cream
Heavy cream creates the signature creamy texture and richness.
Cheddar cheese
Cheddar cheese melts into the soup, adding sharpness and depth.
Paprika
Paprika adds mild warmth and a subtle smoky note.
Salt
Salt enhances all the flavors and should be adjusted to taste.
Black pepper
Black pepper adds gentle heat and balance.
Fresh parsley
Parsley is used as a garnish, adding freshness and color before serving.
Directions
Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, then stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Add the diced potatoes, corn, kidney beans, and diced tomatoes to the pot, stirring to combine. Pour in the beef broth and season with paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender.
Once the vegetables are cooked, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Allow the soup to simmer gently until the cheese is fully melted and the soup thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 40 minutes, making the total time around 55 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or milk if the soup thickens too much.
Variations and Customizations
Creamy Cowboy Soup is easy to adapt. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. I have also tried adding bell peppers and carrots for extra vegetables, which worked very well. For a spicier soup, add chili powder or a pinch of cayenne. If you prefer a thicker texture, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot before adding the cream. You can also replace cheddar with pepper jack for extra heat or use a blend of cheeses for more depth. This soup is forgiving and welcomes creativity.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 |
| Protein (g) | 28 |
| Carbs (g) | 36 |
| Fat (g) | 26 |
| Saturated Fat (g) | 12 |
| Fiber (g) | 6 |
| Sugar (g) | 6 |
| Sodium (mg) | 820 |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Brown the beef well
Proper browning adds depth and richness to the soup.
Simmer gently
Avoid boiling after adding cream to maintain a smooth texture.
Adjust thickness
Add extra broth or mash potatoes to control consistency.
Taste before serving
Cheese and broth vary in saltiness, so adjust seasoning at the end.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day.
Can I freeze Creamy Cowboy Soup?
Yes, freeze without garnish for up to two months.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the soup will be less rich.
What potatoes work best?
Yukon gold or russet potatoes are ideal.
Is this soup spicy?
No, it is mild but easy to spice up.
Can I add pasta?
Yes, small pasta shapes work well.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives.
How do I thicken the soup?
Simmer longer or mash some potatoes.
Can I use canned potatoes?
Fresh potatoes are recommended for best texture.
What should I serve with this soup?
Crusty bread or cornbread pairs perfectly.
Conclusion
Creamy Cowboy Soup is a comforting, satisfying dish that brings bold flavors and hearty ingredients together in one pot. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy evenings at home. This recipe delivers warmth, richness, and reliability every time.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!