Name: Smoky Cowboy Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced; 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Optional toppings: shredded cheese, fresh herbs

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I make Smoky Cowboy Soup when I want a hearty, filling meal with bold, smoky flavor. It’s packed with protein, beans, and vegetables, and it feels like the kind of comforting soup that warms me up from the inside out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, satisfying, and great for feeding a crowd. Everything comes together in one pot, and the smoky spices give it a deep, slow-simmered taste without much effort. I also like how well it works for leftovers, since the flavor only gets better over time.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

smoked sausage, sliced
ground beef
onion, chopped
garlic, minced
olive oil
diced tomatoes
pinto beans, drained and rinsed
black beans, drained and rinsed
corn kernels
beef broth
tomato paste
smoked paprika
chili powder
ground cumin
salt
black pepper
optional toppings like shredded cheese or fresh herbs

Directions

I start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. I brown the ground beef with the chopped onion until fully cooked, then add the garlic and cook for another minute. I stir in the sliced smoked sausage and let it cook briefly to release its flavor.

Next, I add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beans, corn, beef broth, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. I stir everything together and bring the soup to a gentle simmer.

I reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors are well blended and the soup has thickened slightly.

Servings and Timing

I usually get 6 servings from this recipe.
Prep time: about 15 minutes
Cook time: about 30 minutes
Total time: about 45 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add diced potatoes or bell peppers to make the soup even heartier. When I want extra heat, I add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños. I also like swapping ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter version.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, I warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I make smoky cowboy soup ahead of time?

I often make it a day ahead because the flavors deepen overnight.

Can I make this soup in a crockpot?

I brown the meat first, then add everything to the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours.

What makes this soup smoky?

I rely on smoked sausage and smoked paprika to create that deep smoky flavor.

Can I make this soup without beef?

I skip the ground beef and add more beans or sausage when I want a meat-free option.

What should I serve with cowboy soup?

I like serving it with cornbread, crusty bread, or crackers.

Conclusion

I keep Smoky Cowboy Soup in my meal rotation because it’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make. With simple ingredients and bold seasoning, this soup gives me a comforting, filling meal that’s perfect for any time of year.

Smoky Cowboy Soup

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A hearty, smoky cowboy soup loaded with protein, beans, and vegetables, delivering bold, comforting flavor in a single pot.

Author: Mayaa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Lactose

Ingredients

12 oz smoked sausage, sliced
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels
4 cups beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, fresh herbs

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add ground beef and chopped onion and cook until browned and fully cooked.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Add sliced smoked sausage and cook for 2–3 minutes to release flavor.
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beans, corn, beef broth, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
Simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and well blended.
Serve warm with optional toppings if desired.