Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Soup 

This Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines ground beef, a variety of vegetables, and hearty beans. Perfect for busy days, it requires minimal preparation and allows the slow cooker to do the work, resulting in a rich and satisfying meal. Whether you're feeding a crowd or preparing leftovers, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 medium potatoes, diced

• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced

• 2 stalks celery, chopped

• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes

• 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

• 4 cups beef broth

• 1½ cups frozen mixed vegetables

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 2 bay leaves

Directions

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is softened. Drain any excess fat.

2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, chopped celery, diced tomatoes (with juice), drained corn, kidney beans, pinto beans, tomato sauce, and beef broth.

3. Add Seasonings: Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, paprika, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and bay leaves. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

4. Cook the Soup: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the bay leaves before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 405 kcal

• Protein: 30g

• Carbohydrates: 39g

• Fat: 15g

• Fiber: 8g

• Sodium: 1211mg