Picture this: a steaming bowl of Million Dollar Soup, bubbling away on the stove, filling your kitchen with an aroma so enticing that even your dog raises an eyebrow. The flavors dance together like they’re auditioning for a Broadway show, each note more captivating than the last. creamy mashed potato casserole A sprinkle of herbs here, a dash of spice there, and voilà! You’ve got yourself a soup that not only warms the body but also tickles the soul. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Beef and Shells recipe.
Now, let me take you back to the first time I made this magical concoction. It was a chilly Sunday afternoon, and I was in dire need of comfort food. As I ladled this deliciousness into bowls for my family, their eyes lit up like kids on Christmas morning. roasted asparagus with goat cheese With every spoonful, smiles grew wider and laughter filled the air—let’s just say it was a hit! Perfect for cozy evenings or unexpected guests, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Million Dollar Soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious in a hurry
- Each spoonful bursts with vibrant flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds!
- Its beautiful colors and textures make it visually appealing and mouthwateringly irresistible
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with whatever ingredients you have on hand
I remember one particularly cold winter evening when I served Million Dollar Soup at a family gathering; everyone raved about it! cranberry chicken salad.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing vegetables; extra virgin adds a rich flavor to your base.
- Onions: Chopped finely to provide sweetness; yellow onions work best for this recipe.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic boosts the flavor profile immensely; nothing beats the aroma of garlic sautéing!
- Carrots: Diced carrots add sweetness and nutrition; always choose firm ones for better texture.
- Celery Stalks: Thinly sliced celery brings crunch and depth; opt for bright green stalks.
- Canned Tomatoes: Use whole or diced tomatoes for added acidity; fire-roasted varieties add smokiness.
- Vegetable Broth: Low-sodium broth lets you control salt levels while enhancing flavor; homemade if you can!
- Beans (any variety): Rinse canned beans thoroughly; they add protein and texture to your soup.
- Spices: Oregano & Thyme: Fresh or dried herbs elevate your soup’s flavor; don’t skip these! pumpkin spice snickerdoodles.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors; adjust according to personal taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sautéing the Aromatics: Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until they’re translucent and fragrant—this should take about 5 minutes.
Add Vegetables and Garlic: Toss in diced carrots and celery along with minced garlic. Stir them around until everything softens up nicely—around 3-4 minutes should do.
Pour in Tomatoes and Broth: Now it’s time to add those canned tomatoes along with vegetable broth. Stir everything together until well mixed; the colors should start popping!
Add Beans and Spices: Rinse your chosen beans before adding them into the mix along with oregano and thyme. Let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes so all flavors meld together beautifully.
Taste Test Time!: At this point, give your soup a taste! Adjust salt and pepper as necessary—remember, you want it just right before serving.
Serve It Up!: Ladle piping hot soup into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or crackers on the side! Watch out for those happy faces.
There you have it—a lovely bowl of Million Dollar Soup that’s warm enough to melt away any chill while packing a punch of flavor that will leave everyone begging for more! Enjoy every spoonful like it’s worth its weight in gold because trust me—it truly is! For more inspiration, check out this Lasagna Stuffed Shells recipe.
You Must Know
- Million Dollar Soup is more than just a dish; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days
- This soup not only warms you up but also fills your kitchen with delightful aromas that tease the senses
- Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it an instant favorite
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add your veggies and broth. Simmer until everything is tender before blending for a smooth finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out vegetables based on seasonality or personal preference. Adding spices like smoked paprika can also give the soup an exciting kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Million Dollar Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a creamier texture, blend half the soup and leave some chunky
- Use fresh herbs for added depth of flavor
- Always taste as you go, adjusting seasoning to your preference for the best outcome
I remember the first time I made Million Dollar Soup; my friends devoured it at my dinner party! They insisted it was worth every penny, even though it didn’t cost much to make.
FAQ
Can I freeze Million Dollar Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well; just store it in airtight containers.
What vegetables work best in this recipe?
Carrots, celery, and spinach are great choices for added flavor and nutrition.
How long does Million Dollar Soup last in the fridge?
In the fridge, it stays fresh for up to five days when stored properly.
Million Dollar Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Million Dollar Soup is a warm, hearty dish bursting with vibrant flavors that comfort the soul. This easy-to-make recipe combines sautéed vegetables, aromatic herbs, and protein-packed beans in a flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or unexpected guests, this soup is not only delicious but also customizable to fit your pantry staples. Serve it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) beans (any variety), rinsed
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in diced carrots and celery along with minced garlic; cook for another 3–4 minutes until soft.
- Add canned tomatoes and vegetable broth; mix well and bring to a simmer.
- Incorporate rinsed beans and spices; let simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
