This heartwarming and nostalgic soup takes me back to my happy and cozy childhood memories. Fondly known as “Hamburger Stew” in our home, my Mom would whip up this delightful dish, especially during the chilly autumn and winter months. Whether I came home from school or returned from playing outside in the cold, the aroma wafting from the kitchen was always a source of comfort.
Despite my love for the soup, I never asked my Mom for the recipe. Somehow, I convinced myself that only she possessed the magic touch to create something so wonderful. As life moved forward, my children developed the same fondness for this soup, and whenever we visited Grandma, she would lovingly prepare it for us, reaffirming their belief that only she could make it perfectly.
One day, determined to carry on the tradition, I stumbled upon the long-lost recipe. I decided to take on the challenge and try making the soup myself. And to my surprise, I succeeded! As the familiar and comforting aroma filled my house, I couldn’t wait to share the news with my Mom. When I called her, laughing and excited, she chuckled and revealed that it was one of the easiest recipes to make. It turns out, the secret ingredient was simply love and care.
Now, this heartwarming soup has become a regular feature in our home. My children no longer believe that only Grandma holds the key to its deliciousness. With joy and pride, I now prepare it about once a week, knowing that the tradition lives on and the memories of my Mom’s lovingly made “Hamburger Stew” will forever warm our hearts.
Ingredients
2 lbs. Ground beef
4 Yukon Gold Potatoes – Peeled and cut into small cubes
2 Cans Mixed Vegetables (15.25 oz. each) – Not drained
1. can Whole Sweet Corn (15.25 oz.) – Not drained
1 Can Condensed Tomato Soup (10.75 oz.)
1 Can Petite Diced Tomatoes (15.25 oz.) – Not drained
1 Can Cut Green Beans (15.25 oz.) – Not drained
Pinch Salt
Dash Pepper
2 Tablespoons Sugar
Directions
In a heated skillet, add ground beef and season with a little salt and pepper. Brown the ground beef and then drain the fat.
Place beef and potatoes in a large slow cooker. Then add all the cans of vegetables and the can of tomato soup.
Finally, add the sugar. (Have faith, it really takes it up a level!)
Stir well, cover with the slow cooker lid, and cook on low for 2-3 hours.
Add more salt and pepper to taste if desired.
Serve with crusty bread or crackers, if desired.
Enjoy!
Notes
* You can use any type of ground beef. If you choose one with a higher fat content, make sure you drain the fat off well to avoid a greasy broth. I prefer a lower fat ground beef to reduce the amount of fat I need to drain.
* If you prefer fresh or frozen vegetables, just substitute equivalent quantities of vegetables, and add a can or two of beef broth or stock (14.5 oz.) This extra liquid when using fresh or frozen vegetables replaces the liquid from the undrained canned vegetables.
* If you only have chicken broth or stock, do not worry – use it! Personally, I love the flavor of chicken stock in beef soups and stews.
* You can decide how much of the broth or stock you add based on your preference – using less broth or stock will make a more stew-like consistency. Sometimes I want a soup and other times I want stew. Feel free to adjust the liquid to the consistency you are craving!
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Soup is a true culinary delight that warms both the body and the soul. This wholesome and comforting dish takes us on a journey through time, evoking memories of rustic campfires and the rugged charm of the Old West. The combination of tender beef, robust vegetables, and flavorful spices simmering together in a slow cooker creates a symphony of taste that leaves a lasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to savor it.
With its ease of preparation and rich, hearty flavors, this Cowboy Soup has earned its place as a family favorite, perfect for gatherings and weeknight dinners alike. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its deliciousness but also in its versatility – it can be easily adapted to suit individual preferences or dietary needs.
As we gather around the table and enjoy this nourishing soup, we are reminded of the love and care that goes into preparing meals for our loved ones. Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Soup has the power to bring people together, creating cherished moments and forging new memories. Whether shared with family, friends, or enjoyed in solitude, this comforting soup is a culinary treasure worth passing down through generations.
So, let the aroma of this heartwarming Cowboy Soup fill your kitchen, and let it bring a sense of joy and contentment to your heart. From its humble origins to becoming a beloved family tradition, this recipe will continue to bring comfort and happiness to all those who taste its delightful flavors. Embrace the warmth and nostalgia it brings, and let this timeless soup become a staple in your own culinary journey.