Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Cowboy Soup Recipe: Hearty Comfort in Every Bowl

Recipe by Evelyn Marcella Rivera

This hearty cowboy soup combines tender beef, creamy cheese, and colorful vegetables into a one-pot wonder that satisfies the heartiest appetite. With roots in rustic, campfire-style cooking, this modern version brings together pantry staples and fresh ingredients for bold flavors and satisfying texture in every spoonful—perfect comfort food for busy weeknights.


  • Total Time1 hour
  • Yield8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale

Protein & Dairy

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 package Velveeta cheese (cubed)
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (grated)
  • 2.5 cups whole milk

Vegetables

  • 1 medium yellow onion (finely chopped)
  • 4 small potatoes (chopped)
  • 1 red bell pepper (seeds removed and diced)

Canned Goods

  • 1 can whole kernel corn (rinsed and drained (13.25 oz))
  • 1 can black beans (rinsed and drained (13.25 oz))
  • 1 can green chiles ((4 oz))

Liquids & Base

  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken or beef broth
  • 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
  • 0.25 cup unsalted butter

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Toppings

  • bacon bits (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Create the Creamy Roux Base: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter until it begins to foam. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden. Slowly whisk in the whole milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat and set aside.
  2. Brown the Beef: In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, for 5-7 minutes until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Transfer to a plate and drain all but 2 tablespoons of fat.
  3. Soften the Vegetables: Add the onion, potatoes, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables soften and potatoes show slight translucency around edges.
  4. Add Spices and Beans: Season with cumin and cayenne (if using). Add the corn, black beans, and green chiles. Stir to combine.
  5. Build the Soup Base: Return the cooked beef to the pot. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
  6. Simmer: Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
  7. Make It Creamy and Cheesy: Stir in the milk roux mixture, then add the cubed Velveeta. Cover and cook another 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cheese is melted and soup is thick and smooth.
  8. Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with sharp cheddar cheese and bacon bits if desired. Let rest 5 minutes before serving for best texture.

Notes

The roux is essential for creating the soup’s creamy, velvety texture. Don’t skip this step or try to add flour directly to the soup. For best results, use low-sodium broth so you can control the final seasoning. The soup thickens as it sits, so add a splash of broth or milk when reheating leftovers.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Main Course, Soup
  • Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex

Nutrition

  • Calories: 425
  • Sugar: 8
  • Sodium: 780
  • Fat: 22
  • Saturated Fat: 11
  • Carbohydrates: 32
  • Fiber: 5
  • Protein: 24