Why You’ll Love Crockpot Cowboy Soup Recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want something warm and satisfying ready by dinner time. It’s easy to prepare, loaded with protein and fiber, and extremely customizable. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, Crockpot Cowboy Soup is a dependable go-to.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) corn kernels, drained
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
1 packet taco seasoning mix
1 packet ranch dressing mix
4 cups beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions for garnish

Directions

In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
Transfer the beef mixture to a crockpot.
Add the diced tomatoes, all three types of beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, diced green chilies, taco seasoning, and ranch dressing mix.
Pour in the beef broth and stir everything together.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Serve hot with optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 8 servings.
Cooking time is approximately 6–8 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high.

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
Add chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor and heat.
Stir in cooked pasta or rice toward the end for a thicker, stew-like consistency.
Swap ranch mix for a fajita seasoning blend for a different twist.
Make it vegetarian by omitting the beef and adding extra beans or a meat substitute.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
This soup also freezes well—store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How spicy is Crockpot Cowboy Soup?

It has a mild to moderate spice level, thanks to the diced tomatoes with green chilies. You can adjust the heat by using mild or hot versions of the canned chilies.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the ground beef and use an extra can of beans or a plant-based meat substitute.

What can I use instead of ranch dressing mix?

You can make a homemade version with dried herbs like dill, parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of a crockpot?

Yes, simmer everything in a large pot over low heat for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

Is it okay to use frozen corn instead of canned?

Absolutely. Use about 1½ cups of frozen corn in place of the canned version.

Can I prepare this soup the night before?

Yes. You can cook the beef mixture and add everything to the crockpot insert, cover it, and refrigerate. In the morning, just set it to cook.

What toppings go best with this soup?

Cheddar cheese, sour cream, and green onions are classic, but avocado, tortilla strips, or jalapeños are great too.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, as long as your crockpot is large enough. This recipe scales well for a crowd.

What’s the best way to freeze this soup?

Cool completely, then ladle into freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave space for expansion and label with the date.

How do I thicken the soup if it’s too brothy?

Let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and cook until thickened.

Conclusion

Crockpot Cowboy Soup is the perfect combination of hearty ingredients and bold flavors, made effortlessly in the slow cooker. It’s ideal for meal prepping, feeding a family, or just enjoying a warm, satisfying bowl after a long day. Give it a try, and you might just find it becomes a staple in your meal rotation.