Hearty Crock Pot Cowboy Soup (Hamburger Soup)
Introduction
Hearty Crock Pot Cowboy Soup, often called Hamburger Soup, is a comforting, slow-cooked meal inspired by rustic ranch cooking. Packed with ground beef, vegetables, and savory seasonings, this soup delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. It’s the kind of dish that warms the soul, feeds a crowd, and makes your home smell incredible all day long.
Ingredients & Quantities
1 lb (450 g) ground beef (hamburger meat)
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups potatoes, diced
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 cup celery, chopped
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) corn, drained
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) kidney beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups beef broth
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp chili powder (optional)
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Instructions
1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
2. Add diced onion and garlic to the beef and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Transfer the beef mixture to a crock pot (slow cooker).
4. Add potatoes, carrots, celery, tomatoes, tomato sauce, corn, beans, and beef broth.
5. Stir in all seasonings and add the bay leaf.
6. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until vegetables are tender.
7. Remove bay leaf before serving. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Cowboy Soup originates from American Western and ranch culture, where simple, hearty meals were essential for long days of labor. Using affordable pantry staples and slow cooking methods, this soup reflects the practical yet flavorful traditions of cowboy and homestead cooking across the United States.
Description
This soup is rich, savory, and deeply comforting, with tender vegetables, juicy beef, and a tomato-based broth that balances warmth and heartiness. Each spoonful delivers classic home-style flavor, making it ideal for family dinners or cold-weather meals.
Optional Additions
Green beans or peas for extra veggies
Jalapeños or cayenne for heat
Macaroni or small pasta for a heartier texture
Shredded cheddar cheese on top
Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Tips for Success
Brown the beef first for deeper flavor
Cut vegetables evenly for consistent cooking
Taste and adjust seasoning near the end
Let the soup rest 10 minutes before serving for best flavor
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
Calories: 320–350
Protein: 22 g
Fat: 14 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fiber: 6 g
Sodium: Moderate (depends on broth and seasoning)
Conclusion
Hearty Crock Pot Cowboy Soup is a timeless, satisfying recipe that brings warmth, nourishment, and comfort to the table. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s a meal that never goes out of style.
Recommendation
Serve this soup with crusty bread, cornbread, or warm dinner rolls for a complete and filling meal. It also stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Cowboy Soup proves that comfort food can be both wholesome and nourishing. Packed with protein, vegetables, and slow-simmered flavor, it allows you to indulge in rich taste while still supporting a balanced lifestyle.