If you’ve ever wished for a recipe that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, this Cowboy Soup is it. This hearty beef soup is brimming with tender meat, garden-fresh vegetables, and a rich broth that tastes like it simmered all day (even though it’s ready in just 30 minutes!). It’s the kind of comfort food that satisfies cowboys and city folks alike—perfect for busy weeknights or when you simply want a bowl of something cozy and nourishing.
I created this recipe for those days when life feels a bit too fast-paced, and you crave a homemade meal that doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup—can I get an amen? Whether you serve it with crusty bread or a slice of cornbread, this American stew promises big flavor and happy bellies.
Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Soup
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Ready in just 30 minutes—no need to babysit the pot all day.
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Packed with protein, veggies, and cozy spices.
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Family-friendly and freezer-friendly.
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The perfect mix of simplicity and old-fashioned charm.
Cowboy Soup
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
Cowboy Soup is a hearty, one-pot beef and vegetable soup that delivers rustic comfort in every spoonful. Loaded with tender beef, carrots, celery, tomatoes, and smoky spices, this cozy dish comes together in just 30 minutes for a meal that tastes like it simmered all day. Perfect for busy weeknights, chilly evenings, or whenever you need a bowl of wholesome, old-fashioned comfort food.
Ingredients
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450 g (1 lb) beef stew meat, cubed
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1 medium onion, diced (about 150 g)
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3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced (about 200 g)
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2 celery stalks, sliced (about 100 g)
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2 cans (410 g each) diced tomatoes
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950 ml (4 cups) beef broth
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30 ml (2 tbsp) Worcestershire sauce
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5 g (1 tsp) garlic powder
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5 g (1 tsp) smoked paprika
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1 g (1 tsp) dried thyme
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Optional garnish: chopped parsley or cilantro
Instructions
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Brown the Beef: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned on all sides.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
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Add Liquids & Seasoning: Stir in diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, and thyme. Mix well.
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Simmer: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beef is tender and flavors meld together.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste and add salt and black pepper as needed. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne or a few drops of hot sauce.
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Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve with cornbread or crusty bread for the perfect cowboy-style meal.
Notes
Add corn, beans, or potatoes for extra heartiness.
Substitute ground beef for a faster version.
For a slow-cooker method: brown the beef first, then cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Freezes beautifully—cool completely before freezing for up to 3 months.
Reheat slowly with a splash of broth to restore consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course / Soup
- Method: One-Pot / Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
-
450 g (1 lb) beef stew meat, cubed
-
1 medium onion, diced (about 150 g)
-
3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced (about 200 g)
-
2 celery stalks, sliced (about 100 g)
-
2 cans (410 g each) diced tomatoes
-
950 ml (4 cups) beef broth
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30 ml (2 tbsp) Worcestershire sauce
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5 g (1 tsp) garlic powder
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5 g (1 tsp) smoked paprika
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1 g (1 tsp) dried thyme
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Optional: chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish
How to Make Cowboy Soup
1. Brown the beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed beef and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides.
2. Sauté the vegetables:
Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant—your kitchen should start smelling amazing by now!
3. Add liquids and seasonings:
Pour in diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in garlic powder, smoked paprika, and thyme. Mix everything like you mean it.
4. Simmer the soup:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 20–25 minutes. The beef will turn tender, and the flavors will meld beautifully.
5. Adjust seasoning:
Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Feeling bold? Add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce.
6. Serve:
Ladle into bowls and garnish with parsley or cilantro. Pair it with cornbread or crusty bread for the ultimate cowboy-style meal.
Olivia’s Cooking Tips for Perfect Cowboy Soup
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Use leftover veggies: Got zucchini or potatoes lying around? Toss them in! This soup welcomes all.
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Make it heartier: Add a can of drained corn or beans for extra texture and flavor.
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Low and slow option: If you’ve got time, let it simmer longer—the flavors deepen beautifully.
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Freezer tip: Cool completely before freezing. Reheat gently on the stove for best results.
And don’t stress if your soup looks a little rustic. Remember, real cowboys didn’t have Instagram—just big appetites and hearty meals!
A Personal Story from My Kitchen
This Cowboy Soup recipe was born on a chilly Sunday afternoon when my family came home from a long day outdoors—muddy boots, red noses, and all. I wanted something filling yet quick. As I rummaged through the pantry, I found beef, carrots, and a couple of tomato cans. Within 30 minutes, the house smelled like a homestead kitchen, and everyone gathered around the table before I even called them.
Now, it’s become our go-to when the weather turns cool or when I need a comforting meal without much fuss. It reminds me that simple ingredients and a big pot can create the kind of magic that brings people together—no fancy equipment required.
What to Serve with Cowboy Soup
This hearty beef soup pairs wonderfully with:
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Cornbread — its sweetness complements the smoky flavor.
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Garlic bread — for a savory twist.
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Simple green salad — to balance the richness.
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Mashed potatoes — spoon some soup right on top for extra comfort!
And if you’re hosting, serve it in rustic bowls with a sprinkle of herbs—it’s comfort food with charm.
How to Store Cowboy Soup
Let leftovers cool completely before storing. Place in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.
When reheating, warm it slowly over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. The flavors actually deepen after a day or two—making it one of those rare dishes that tastes even better the next time around!
FAQs About Cowboy Soup
Can I make Cowboy Soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef first, then toss everything into your slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Can I use ground beef instead of stew meat?
Yes, you can. It’ll cook faster and still deliver plenty of flavor—just brown it well for that savory depth.
What if I want it spicier?
Add chili powder or a diced jalapeño for a fiery kick.
Is Cowboy Soup gluten-free?
It is—just make sure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
There’s something timeless about Cowboy Soup—a simple, rustic dish that feels like home with every bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just want an easy one-pot meal that fills your kitchen with warmth, this recipe delivers. So grab your pot, tie on your apron, and let this comfort food classic remind you that the best meals don’t have to be complicated—they just have to be made with love.
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