If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty, and absolutely delicious soup to warm you up on a chilly day, then Million Dollar Soup is just what you need. This soup has earned its name for a reason. It’s packed with flavors, textures, and a luxurious creaminess that will make you feel like you’re indulging in something truly special, but it’s surprisingly easy to make! It’s the kind of dish that will leave your family or guests asking for the recipe.
What makes this soup so special is the balance of rich, savory ingredients combined with a smooth and creamy base. It’s got the kind of flavors that hit every note – from the earthy depth of vegetables to the silky texture of the cream, all wrapped up in a bowl of absolute comfort. It’s versatile, easy to customize, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering.
Million Dollar Soup Recipe
This recipe is the epitome of comfort food. It’s rich, decadent, and packed with flavor. It’s not just a regular soup – it’s a luxury in a bowl. The combination of fresh vegetables, tender chicken, flavorful herbs, and a creamy broth is what sets this soup apart. Add in some bacon for a smoky crunch, and you’ve got yourself a million-dollar meal!
Ingredients Needed
To create the magic that is Million Dollar Soup, you’ll need:
- Chicken breasts or thighs (boneless and skinless) – About 2 medium breasts or thighs, diced into bite-sized pieces.
- Bacon – 4-5 slices, diced for a smoky, crispy element.
- Carrots – 2 medium carrots, chopped into small rounds or half moons.
- Celery – 2 stalks, chopped finely for crunch and flavor.
- Onions – 1 medium onion, diced to provide that aromatic base.
- Garlic – 4 cloves, minced for that delicious garlicky punch.
- Chicken broth – 6 cups, preferably low-sodium, as the base for your soup.
- Heavy cream – 1 cup, to add richness and creaminess.
- Cheddar cheese – 1 ½ cups shredded, to melt into the soup and create that velvety texture.
- Frozen peas – 1 cup, for sweetness and color.
- Frozen corn kernels – 1 cup, for a pop of sweetness and texture.
- Potatoes – 2 medium, peeled and cubed, for a hearty base and added thickness.
- Seasonings – Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and dried thyme, to taste. You can adjust these to your liking or even swap for other herbs like rosemary or sage.
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons for sautéing the vegetables and chicken.
Cooking Instructions
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this glorious soup!
- Sauté the bacon: Start by heating a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving some of the rendered fat in the pot.
- Cook the chicken: Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, and add it to the pot with the bacon fat. Cook the chicken until it’s lightly browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside with the bacon.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the olive oil. Once heated, throw in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften and the onions become translucent. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the broth and potatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and add the cubed potatoes. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Add the cream and cheese: Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Then, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the soup.
- Add the frozen peas and corn: Stir in the frozen peas and corn, followed by the cooked chicken and bacon. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to heat everything through.
- Season to taste: Taste your soup and adjust the seasonings. Add salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and thyme to your preference. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick if you like a little heat.
- Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs or extra cheese, if desired. Serve it with some crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Ingredient Insights
- Chicken: The chicken is the heart of this soup, providing protein and a neutral base that absorbs all the delicious flavors from the broth and seasonings. Chicken thighs, if used, will make the soup a bit more rich and flavorful, while chicken breasts are leaner and a bit lighter.
- Bacon: Adding bacon not only infuses the soup with a smoky, savory flavor but also adds a crispy texture contrast to the otherwise creamy soup. It’s the perfect balance of flavors.
- Cream & Cheese: The heavy cream and shredded cheddar combine to make the soup decadently creamy. The cheese not only thickens the soup but also provides a subtle tanginess that balances the richness.
- Frozen peas & corn: The peas and corn add sweetness and bright pops of color, making the soup not just tasty but visually appealing too.
- Potatoes: These act as a natural thickener for the soup. They help create a creamy, substantial texture and a comforting base that makes each spoonful feel like a warm hug.
Expert Tips
- Use high-quality chicken broth: A good broth is the foundation of any great soup. For the best flavor, opt for homemade chicken broth, or use a low-sodium store-bought version to control the salt levels.
- Cheese tips: Shred the cheese yourself rather than buying pre-shredded. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of your soup.
- Adjust cream levels: If you prefer a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of cream or swap it for half-and-half or milk. However, keep in mind that it will change the richness of the soup.
- Double the recipe: This soup freezes really well, so you might want to make a double batch to have some leftovers for a rainy day. Just store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Add fresh herbs: While dried herbs work well, fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley can elevate the flavor profile even more. Just be sure to add fresh herbs near the end of cooking to preserve their aromatic qualities.
Recipe Variations
This soup is highly customizable, and you can make it your own with a few simple swaps:
- Swap out the meat: If you’re not a fan of chicken, try using turkey or even sausage for a different flavor profile. Ground beef or pork would work well, too.
- Vegetarian version: Skip the meat entirely and load up on extra veggies. Add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra texture and flavor. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Make it spicier: If you love a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the soup while it simmers.
- Add some beans: For extra protein and texture, throw in a can of drained and rinsed white beans or black beans. They pair wonderfully with the creamy base.
Final Words
Million Dollar Soup isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Every spoonful is a comforting mix of textures and flavors, and it’s a great recipe to have in your back pocket for any season. It’s filling, flavorful, and doesn’t take hours of preparation or fancy ingredients. Plus, it’s easy to customize, which makes it perfect for different dietary preferences or what you have on hand in your pantry.
The beauty of this soup lies in its ability to be both indulgent and adaptable. You can make it as rich as you like, or dial it back depending on your preferences. It’s the kind of dish that turns a simple evening into something a little more special.
FAQs
What Is A Million Dollar Soup Recipe?
A million dollar soup recipe typically refers to a rich, creamy, and flavorful soup made with a variety of ingredients such as cream cheese, cheddar cheese, broth, vegetables, and sometimes meat. The name ’million dollar’ suggests that the soup has an indulgent and luxurious taste.
What Are The Main Ingredients In A Million Dollar Soup Recipe?
The core ingredients in a million dollar soup recipe often include cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chicken broth, onions, garlic, and vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, or corn. Some variations might include bacon, sausage, or chicken for added flavor.
Can I Make A Vegetarian Version Of Million Dollar Soup?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of million dollar soup by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and omitting any meat. You can substitute the meat with extra vegetables, beans, or tofu for protein.
How Do I Make The Soup Extra Creamy?
To make the soup extra creamy, you can add more cream cheese, sour cream, or heavy cream. These ingredients help achieve a rich, velvety texture. Blending part of the soup also creates a smoother, creamier consistency.
Can I Freeze Million Dollar Soup?
Yes, million dollar soup can be frozen, but it’s important to note that the texture of the cream cheese and heavy cream may change after thawing. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. When reheating, stir well to bring back some of the original texture.
How Long Does Million Dollar Soup Last In The Fridge?
Million dollar soup typically lasts for about 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Make sure to cool the soup before storing to avoid bacterial growth.
Can I Add Meat To Million Dollar Soup?
Yes, many variations of million dollar soup include meats like chicken, bacon, or sausage. You can add cooked chicken or bacon for extra flavor, or ground sausage for a heartier meal.
What Vegetables Work Best In Million Dollar Soup?
Common vegetables used in million dollar soup include potatoes, carrots, corn, and onions. You can also add bell peppers, celery, and green beans depending on your preference.
What Is The Best Way To Serve Million Dollar Soup?
Million dollar soup is best served hot, topped with extra shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, or fresh herbs for garnish. It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple salad.
Can I Make Million Dollar Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can make million dollar soup in a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients (except for the cream cheese) and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the cream cheese towards the end to ensure it melts smoothly into the soup.