creamy Cowboy Soup

Creamy Cowboy Soup is a hearty, comforting soup loaded with ground beef, vegetables, beans, and a creamy base. It’s perfect for a cozy meal that feels like a warm hug! Here’s a simple recipe to make this delicious soup:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed (or pinto beans)
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (4 oz) green chilies (optional for a little heat)
• 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Crumbled tortilla chips (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Brown the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Drain excess fat: If there’s excess fat, drain it off.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Spices

1. Add onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent.
2. Add spices: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the spices cook for 1 minute to release their flavors.

Step 3: Add the Liquids and Beans

1. Add tomatoes and broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, and green chilies (if using). Stir well.
2. Add beans and corn: Stir in the kidney beans and corn. Bring the soup to a simmer, and cook for 10-15 minutes, letting all the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Add the Cream

1. Stir in the cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half). Stir until the soup is creamy and well combined.
2. Taste and adjust: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed (more salt, pepper, or spices).

Step 5: Serve

1. Top with cheese: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
2. Garnish: Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley and crumbled tortilla chips for an extra crunch.

Tips and Variations:

• Add veggies: You can add extra veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for added nutrition.
• Spicy version: For a spicier soup, add a diced jalapeño or more green chilies.
• Serve with bread: Pair the soup with some crusty bread or cornbread to soak up all the creamy goodness.
• Make it a freezer meal: This soup freezes well, so you can make a large batch and freeze it in airtight containers for future meals.

This Creamy Cowboy Soup is rich, flavorful, and packed with comfort. Enjoy it on a chilly day for a satisfying meal!