If you are looking for a simple recipe that delivers lots of flavor, try this Slow Cooker Cowboy Soup! It combines ground beef, kielbasa, potatoes, beans, and corn in a flavorful tomato broth, seasoned with garlic and chili powder. Not only is it deliciously hearty, but the slow cooker does most of the work, so you can come home to a ready-to-serve, satisfying meal! I plan on putting this recipe on repeat, especially during the cooler months. If you love how hearty and satisfying this cowboy soup is, you will definitely want to try my Cowboy Stew, too!

Slow Cooker Cowboy Soup in a crock pot on a wooden table from overhead.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef: The only ‘work’ you have to do for this soup is to brown the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker. If you don’t have ground beef, try ground turkey or chicken.
Kielbasa: Kielbasa (sometimes also called ring sausage) is a flavorful, lightly smoked sausage that is pre-cooked. I love using it in recipes and have a collection of Kielbasa recipes you may want to check out! You could also use Andouille sausage, Mexican Chorizo, or other sausages as substitutes.
Potatoes: I peeled and cut the Russet potatoes into cubes before adding them to the slow cooker. You can certainly leave the skins on, too! (I like the extra texture from the skins.) Yukon gold or sweet potatoes would be a couple of other options.
Tomatoes: Look for two cans of diced tomatoes. Do not drain them–the juices will help make the broth extra flavorful!
Beans: I added kidney beans to the soup, but it’s easy to substitute with your favorite kind of beans. Canned black beans or pinto beans would also be delicious.
Corn: I like the pop of color and sweetness the corn adds to the soup. Frozen corn or fresh corn (right off of the cob) would also work.
Chili Powder: For depth of flavor and a little spice, I added chili powder. Taco seasoning, paprika, or a mix of cumin and cayenne pepper would also add lots of flavor.

Can I Cook Cowboy Soup On The Stovetop?

Yes! You can get the soup made in about 30-45 minutes if making it on the stovetop (without a slow cooker). Brown the beef in a large pot. Then, add the kielbasa (which is already cooked), diced onions and minced garlic. Stir in diced potatoes, tomatoes, kidney beans, sweet corn, chili powder, salt, and pepper, along with broth to cover. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 25-30 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

How To Store Slow Cooker Cowboy Soup

To store cowboy soup, first, let it cool to room temperature. Next, keep it in an airtight container (or divide it into smaller portions) in the refrigerator. It will last up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in on the stovetop or microwave. For longer storage, freeze the soup.

Bowls of Slow Cooker Cowboy Soup on a wooden table from overhead.

Freezing Cowboy Soup

To freeze cowboy soup, first, let it cool to room temperature. Next, place it in freezer-safe containers or bags. (I like to freeze it in individual or family-sized portions for easier reheating later.) Label and date the containers; it will last up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.