Crockpot Cowboy Soup

Indulge in a hearty and flavorful soup that’s packed with a combination of meats and vegetables, making it a perfect comfort dish for chilly nights.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 packages (16 ounces each) kielbasa sausage, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) peeled and diced tomatoes, drained
• 4 medium baked potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) pinto beans, with liquid
• 2 cans (15.2 ounces each) whole kernel corn, with liquid
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chiles, with liquid
• 1 package (10 ounces) frozen mixed vegetables
• 4 cups of water
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Methods:

1. Cook the Meats: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, crumble and brown the ground beef. Add the sausage, garlic, and onion. Cook and stir until the meat is no longer pink.
2. Prepare the Base: Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Transfer the meat mixture to a large saucepan.
3. Add Vegetables & Seasonings: Pour the diced tomatoes into the saucepan with the meat mixture. Follow with the potatoes, pinto beans, corn, diced tomatoes with chiles, mixed vegetables, and water. Season the mixture with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer: Cover the saucepan and let the mixture simmer over medium-low heat for at least an hour. It’s important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking. The flavors will meld and intensify the longer you let it cook.
5. Serve: Once cooked to your preference, ladle the soup into bowls, and enjoy a warm, comforting meal!

Tip: This soup can be easily adapted for a slow cooker. After browning the meat in step 1, transfer everything to a crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Adjust the seasonings as necessary before serving.