Name: Crispy Beef and Cheddar Cowboy Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 1 (13.25 oz.) can black beans, rinsed and drained; Bacon bits, optional - 1/4 cup; 1 yellow onion, finely chopped; 4 small potatoes, chopped; 1 red bell pepper, seeds removed, diced; 1 (13.25 oz.) can whole corn kernels, rinsed and drained; 1 (4 oz.) can green chiles; 1 (16 oz.) package Velveeta, cubed; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated; 2 1/2 cups whole milk; 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter; 3 cups low-sodium chicken or beef broth; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional; Kosher salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm bowl of hearty soup, and this Crispy Beef and Cheddar Cowboy Soup Recipe hits all the right notes. Loaded with rich cheese, tender beef, and plenty of comforting veggies, it’s pure kitchen magic on a chilly day.

A close-up view of a spoon filled with creamy soup showing three visible layers of ingredients: small orange carrot pieces, yellow corn kernels, and tiny bits of brown meat, all mixed into a thick beige broth. Below, a white bowl holds the same soup with a smooth, creamy surface and small colorful bits scattered throughout. The background shows a red pot and a white marbled surface with a checkered cloth partly visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Beef and Cheddar Cowboy Soup Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Crispy Beef and Cheddar Cowboy Soup Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Crispy Beef and Cheddar Cowboy Soup Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I’ve made this cowboy soup countless times, and every single spoonful reminds me why it’s become a favorite here. It’s downright comforting, easy enough for a weeknight, and rich enough to make you feel like you’re indulging.

Hearty flavor: Ground beef, potatoes, and beans combine for a filling and satisfying base.
Cheesy comfort: Velveeta and sharp cheddar melt into a luscious, creamy broth that’s pure indulgence.
Simple to make: All on the stovetop with straightforward ingredients you can find at any store.
Customizable heat: Easy to tweak with cayenne or jalapeños if you like a little spicy kick.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Let’s talk ingredients before we dive in. I always recommend grabbing fresh vegetables and quality ground beef since they are the foundation of this soup’s rich, hearty flavor. Don't skip the Velveeta for that signature creamy texture!

Flat lay of a small mound of lean ground beef, a stack of yellow Velveeta cheese cubes, a small pile of grated sharp cheddar cheese, one whole yellow onion, four small chopped potatoes, one diced red bell pepper, a small white bowl of whole corn kernels, a small white bowl of black beans, a small white bowl of chopped green chiles, a small white bowl of light golden unsalted butter, a small white bowl of all-purpose flour, a small white bowl of whole milk, a small white bowl of low-sodium broth, a small white bowl of ground cumin powder, a small white bowl of garlic powder, a small white bowl of cayenne powder, clean whole brown eggs with shells, all ingredients fresh and natural, arranged with perfect symmetry on simple white ceramic bowls and plates, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Lean ground beef: Provides the savory, meaty base without excess grease.
Black beans: Adds creaminess and protein while giving the soup hearty body.
Bacon bits (optional): A crunchy, smoky topping that adds an extra layer of flavor.
Yellow onion: Essential for building a fragrant, sweet undertone.
Small potatoes: These give the soup that filling, comforting texture.
Red bell pepper: Adds a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
Corn kernels: For a touch of natural sweetness and classic cowboy soup texture.
Green chiles: Brings gentle heat and depth to the broth.
Velveeta cheese: Creates a creamy, smooth base that's impossible to resist.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Adds tangy bite for a wonderful cheese contrast.
Whole milk: Needed for a rich, velvety roux and creamy broth.
Unsalted butter: Forms the foundation of the roux that thickens the soup beautifully.
Low-sodium chicken or beef broth: Adds savory depth while letting other flavors shine.
All-purpose flour: Combines with butter to thicken the soup perfectly.
Garlic powder: Injects subtle warmth and aroma.
Cumin: A smoky spice that complements the beef and chiles perfectly.
Cayenne pepper (optional): For those who want to turn up the heat just a bit.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: To season everything just right.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

The beauty of the Crispy Beef and Cheddar Cowboy Soup Recipe lies in its flexibility. Feel free to tweak it to fit your tastes or what you have on hand—this soup welcomes all kinds of delicious twists!

Vegetarian Version: For a meat-free alternative, simply omit the ground beef and swap out the chicken or beef broth for vegetable broth. This creates a lighter yet still hearty soup packed with all the flavors you love.
Spice It Up: If you like things with a little more kick, add an extra ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or toss in some diced jalapeños. The warmth of the spices really complements the cheesy richness.
Cheese Swap: I’ve also tried substituting Velveeta with a combination of sharp cheddar and cream cheese. It adds a slightly tangier, creamier texture that’s equally satisfying.
Lower Fat Option: Using low-fat milk in place of whole milk reduces calories without sacrificing too much creaminess—just keep in mind the soup won’t be quite as indulgent.
Extra Crunch: For a fun variation, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions on top when serving. It adds a nice texture contrast with the velvety soup.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Beef and Cheddar Cowboy Soup Recipe

A creamy soup fills a white bowl, showing a thick, smooth yellow base mixed with small pieces of brown meat, orange carrot bits, and yellow corn kernels. On top, there are small strips of crispy bacon adding a dark reddish-brown color and crunchy texture. Next to the bowl is a larger pot, also with the same creamy soup inside, placed on a white marbled surface with a beige and white checkered cloth partially under the pot. The whole scene is bright with a warm feeling, focusing on the rich creamy soup and its toppings photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Create a Rich, Velvety Roux

Start by melting the butter over medium-high heat in a medium saucepan. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook this roux for 2 to 3 minutes until it turns a lovely golden brown—this develops a toasty, nutty flavor that forms the creamy base of your soup. Slowly whisk in the whole milk to keep the mixture smooth, seasoning with salt and pepper. Set it aside in the fridge while you work on the other ingredients. Having this roux ready upfront saves time later and guarantees that silky cheesy texture we’re after.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef with Seasoning

Heat a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add your lean ground beef. Break it up gently with a wooden spoon as it cooks until fully browned. Season generously with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a good sprinkle of garlic powder for depth. Once cooked, transfer the beef to a plate but leave 2 tablespoons of that delicious fat in the pot — it will add flavor to the veggies in the next step.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies to Perfection

Into the pot with reserved beef fat, add finely chopped yellow onion, chopped potatoes, and diced red bell pepper. Cook them for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the peppers and onions soften into sweet, fragrant goodness. Season this mix with salt, pepper, cumin, and if you’re feeling adventurous, the optional cayenne pepper. This combo gives the soup its signature southwestern warmth.

Step 4: Bring on the Beans, Corn, and Chiles

Stir in the rinsed black beans, whole corn kernels, and green chiles. Then return the browned beef to the pot, folding everything together evenly. The varied textures and colors at this stage make it feel really hearty and satisfying already!

Step 5: Simmer with Broth to Develop Flavor

Pour in 3 cups of low-sodium chicken or beef broth and bring everything to a boil. Then reduce the heat and let it gently simmer for 15 minutes. This resting time is key—flavors meld, the potatoes soak up the spices, and the whole pot transforms into a cohesive, comforting stew.

Step 6: Stir in the Roux and Melt in the Cheese

Next, stir your chilled roux mixture into the soup to thicken it beautifully. Add the cubed Velveeta cheese, then cover the pot and let everything cook for another 15 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally—the Velveeta will melt down into the broth, creating that ultra creamy texture you’re craving.

Step 7: Serve with a Cheesy, Crispy Finish

Ladle your hot Cowboy Soup into bowls and top generously with freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese. For an extra touch of savory crunch, sprinkle on bacon bits if you like. Dive in immediately while it’s warm and gooey—you’re in for a bowl of pure comfort that feeds both body and soul.

Top Tip

Mastering the Crispy Beef and Cheddar Cowboy Soup Recipe can be a breeze when you keep a few helpful tips in mind. These little tricks will elevate your soup’s flavor and texture, while making the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Perfect Roux: Make sure to cook your roux just until it turns golden brown. This step is crucial for adding a deep, nutty flavor without any raw flour taste.
Season in Layers: Season your beef generously as it browns and adjust seasoning again after adding vegetables and broth to build complexity and balance.
Veggie Texture: Don't rush the sautéing of onions, potatoes, and bell peppers — cooking them until fork tender ensures a hearty bite without any crunch.
Cheese Melting: Add the Velveeta last, cover the pot, and cook gently. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and get that perfectly smooth, cheesy soup.

How to Serve Crispy Beef and Cheddar Cowboy Soup Recipe

A white pot filled with a mix of diced orange carrots, pale green celery, and white onions covers the bottom layer, topped by two layers of raw ground meat, one side dark red and the other pinkish brown. A teal spatula with a wooden handle rests inside the pot on the right side, and the pot is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

When serving your Cowboy Soup, simple garnishes can add extra flair and flavor. Sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top to add crunch and smoky depth. A handful of freshly chopped green onions or chives brings a pop of color and freshness. For an extra kick, add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce—perfect for those who like a touch of heat!

Side Dishes

This stew-like soup pairs beautifully with warm, crusty bread or buttery cornbread to soak up every last cheesy drop. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette helps to balance the richness, while simple roasted vegetables add heartiness to the meal. For casual gatherings, serve with tortilla chips for scooping — because who doesn’t love a little extra crunch?

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your hearty soup, store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind this soup thickens as it cools, so you might want to loosen it with a splash of broth or milk when reheating.

Freezing

This Cowboy Soup freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup is too thick, add a bit of broth or milk to return it to a creamy consistency. This slow reheating preserves the rich flavor and silky texture.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make the Crispy Beef and Cheddar Cowboy Soup Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and bacon bits, and swap the broth for vegetable broth. You can add extra beans or vegetables to keep the soup hearty and satisfying.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add an additional ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables to give your Cowboy Soup an extra spicy kick.

Is Velveeta necessary for the soup?

Velveeta provides the creamy melt that makes this soup special, but you can substitute it with processed cheese or a blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese for a different texture and flavor.

Why did my soup thicken upon standing and how can I fix it?

The soup naturally thickens as it cools because of the cheese and roux. Simply stir in a splash of broth or milk while reheating to bring back that perfect creamy consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Beef and Cheddar Cowboy Soup Recipe is one of those cozy comforts that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or craving a quick, satisfying meal, it promises rich flavors and hearty goodness every single time. Don’t forget to share it with friends and enjoy the smiles that come with such simple, delicious food made from the heart.