Introduction: Have you ever craved a soup that’s not just comforting but also bursting with rich flavors and creamy textures? The Million Dollar Soup is exactly that—a savory bowl of perfection that blends hearty vegetables, creamy cheese, and just the right amount of savory seasoning to elevate your mealtime. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself to something extraordinary, this soup is guaranteed to delight. In this article, we will explore everything there is to know about Million Dollar Soup, including its origin, ingredients, step-by-step preparation, variations, and much more. So, let’s dive in!
What is Million Dollar Soup?
Million Dollar Soup is a decadent, creamy vegetable-based soup that combines classic ingredients like onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes with rich cheeses such as cheddar and Parmesan. The soup’s velvety texture and indulgent flavors make it feel like a luxurious dish, worthy of its name. This soup isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about the experience of enjoying something special with every spoonful. Whether served as a comforting dinner or an elegant appetizer, Million Dollar Soup is the perfect way to elevate your mealtime.
The Origin of Million Dollar Soup
The Million Dollar Soup has become a favorite in many kitchens, but its origins are somewhat mysterious. Some say it’s a modern twist on traditional creamy vegetable soups that have been around for generations. Others speculate that the name “Million Dollar” refers to the soup’s luxurious combination of ingredients that make it taste as though it could cost a fortune. What’s clear is that this soup’s rich, cheesy, and creamy flavors have made it a beloved dish, often featured in family gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients for Million Dollar Soup
Creating the Million Dollar Soup is incredibly easy, and the ingredients are simple yet flavorful. Here’s what you’ll need to make this indulgent soup that’s sure to wow your family and friends:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or more to taste)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Ingredients (For an Extra “Million Dollar” Experience):
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits or crumbled sausage
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (for extra depth)
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method for Million Dollar Soup
The preparation of Million Dollar Soup is straightforward and can be done in under an hour. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to making this creamy, flavorful soup.
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté the onion and garlic for about 2-3 minutes until the onions become soft and fragrant. Next, add the diced carrots and celery to the pot, and sauté everything together for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften.
Step 2: Add Potatoes and Seasoning
Now it’s time to add the diced potato into the pot. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and salt. Stir the mixture well to ensure that the seasoning is evenly distributed among the vegetables.
Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer
Pour the chicken or vegetable broth into the pot and stir everything together. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 4: Blend (Optional)
If you prefer a smoother texture, now is the time to use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup. Blend until you reach the desired consistency. For a chunkier soup, you can skip this step and leave the soup as it is.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Once the soup has reached your desired texture, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and allow it to combine with the other ingredients. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese into the soup, stirring until the cheese melts smoothly into the soup.
Step 6: Stir in Sour Cream
To make the soup even creamier and add a touch of tang, stir in the sour cream. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring that the sour cream is fully incorporated.
Step 7: Final Touches
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or any extra spices such as smoked paprika for additional flavor. If you’re using bacon or sausage, stir it in at this point for added richness and flavor.
Step 8: Serve
Once your soup is perfectly seasoned, ladle it into bowls. Garnish each serving with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot, paired with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
Tips & Variations for Million Dollar Soup
This recipe is highly versatile, and there are several ways you can tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few variations you can try:
- For a Vegan Version: Replace the butter with plant-based butter, use non-dairy cream such as coconut cream or oat cream, and swap the cheeses for plant-based cheese alternatives. You can also opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the soup entirely vegan.
- For a Heartier Meal: If you want to turn this soup into a more filling dish, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to the soup. These protein additions will complement the creamy texture and make the soup more substantial.
- Texture Variations: For a chunkier soup, skip the blending step and leave the vegetables in larger pieces. If you prefer a smooth and velvety texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup until it reaches a creamy consistency.
FAQs about Million Dollar Soup
Can I Make Million Dollar Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, Million Dollar Soup can be made ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Simply store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little extra cream or broth to loosen it if necessary.
Can I Freeze Million Dollar Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Million Dollar Soup for later use. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Million Dollar Soup?
Million Dollar Soup is perfect when served with crusty bread, crackers, or even a grilled cheese sandwich. It can also be paired with a light salad for a complete meal. The creamy, cheesy nature of the soup pairs wonderfully with these sides for a well-rounded dining experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Million Dollar Soup is the epitome of comfort food that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking it for a cozy family dinner or as an impressive appetizer for guests, this soup is bound to make a lasting impression. With its versatile ingredients, easy preparation, and endless variations, this soup will become a staple in your kitchen. So, grab your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a bowl of this decadent soup that’s fit for royalty. Your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Creamy Million Dollar Soup with Cheddar & Parmesan – Rich and Velvety Comfort Food!
- Total Time: 35 mins
Description
Million Dollar Soup is a decadent, creamy vegetable-based soup that combines classic ingredients like onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes with rich cheeses such as cheddar and Parmesan. The soup’s velvety texture and indulgent flavors make it feel like a luxurious dish, worthy of its name. This soup isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about the experience of enjoying something special with every spoonful. Whether served as a comforting dinner or an elegant appetizer, Million Dollar Soup is the perfect way to elevate your mealtime.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or more to taste)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Ingredients (For an Extra “Million Dollar” Experience):
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits or crumbled sausage
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (for extra depth)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté the onion and garlic for about 2-3 minutes until the onions become soft and fragrant. Next, add the diced carrots and celery to the pot, and sauté everything together for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften.
Step 2: Add Potatoes and Seasoning
Now it’s time to add the diced potato into the pot. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and salt. Stir the mixture well to ensure that the seasoning is evenly distributed among the vegetables.
Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer
Pour the chicken or vegetable broth into the pot and stir everything together. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 4: Blend (Optional)
If you prefer a smoother texture, now is the time to use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup. Blend until you reach the desired consistency. For a chunkier soup, you can skip this step and leave the soup as it is.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Once the soup has reached your desired texture, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and allow it to combine with the other ingredients. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese into the soup, stirring until the cheese melts smoothly into the soup.
Step 6: Stir in Sour Cream
To make the soup even creamier and add a touch of tang, stir in the sour cream. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring that the sour cream is fully incorporated.
Step 7: Final Touches
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or any extra spices such as smoked paprika for additional flavor. If you’re using bacon or sausage, stir it in at this point for added richness and flavor.
Step 8: Serve
Once your soup is perfectly seasoned, ladle it into bowls. Garnish each serving with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot, paired with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
Notes
Hope you loved this rich and comforting bowl of goodness! Don’t forget to share it with your loved ones—because something this delicious is worth a million smiles
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Creamy Million Dollar Soup