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Million Dollar Soup

Indulgent Million Dollar Soup: A Cozy Bowl of Comfort

A warm and hearty Million Dollar Soup perfect for chilly nights, featuring caramelized onions and creamy cheddar.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Comfort Food
Servings 6 bowls
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • large pot
  • baking sheet
  • Oven
  • Stirring spoon

Ingredients
  

For the Soup

  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Swap with vegetable oil if preferred.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Use margarine for a dairy-free option.
  • 2 large Sweet Onions Yellow onions are a viable substitute.
  • 2 stalks Celery Can be omitted if necessary.
  • 1 bulb Fennel Leeks make a great substitute.
  • 3 cloves Garlic No substitutions recommended.
  • 1 cup White Wine Can be replaced with chicken or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic option.
  • 6 cups Chicken Stock Opt for low-sodium or homemade stock for a lighter version.
  • 4 cups Kale Spinach can be an alternative.
  • 6 slices Cooked Bacon Turkey bacon is a leaner option.
  • 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce Use tamari for a gluten-free version.
  • 2 cups Shredded Chicken Rotisserie chicken is ideal for quick prep.
  • 1 pound Potato Gnocchi Dumplings or pasta can substitute.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Gruyère or dairy-free alternatives are good swaps.
  • 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Coconut cream serves as a dairy-free option.
  • 2 tablespoons Cornstarch Used to thicken the soup.
  • 1/4 cup Water Used with cornstarch.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Substitute paprika for less heat.

For the Topping

  • 1 cup Panko Bread Crumbs Regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can be used.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Grana Padano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

Instructions
 

Cooking Steps

  • Caramelize Onions: Sauté sweet onions in olive oil and butter over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes until they soften. Lower the heat, cover, and cook for 35 minutes until they're beautifully browned.
  • Prepare Bread Crumbs: Combine panko with Parmesan and melted butter in a bowl. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy.
  • Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, heat a bit more olive oil and butter. Add celery, fennel, and garlic, cooking for 7-8 minutes until fragrant. Deglaze with white wine for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  • Combine Ingredients: Return your caramelized onions to the pot. Add chicken stock, kale, cooked bacon, soy sauce, and seasonings. Bring to a boil before reducing the heat and simmering for 10-15 minutes.
  • Add Chicken and Gnocchi: Stir in shredded chicken and gnocchi. Let them simmer until the gnocchi floats—this should take about 2-3 minutes.
  • Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Gradually mix in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy whipping cream. Stir until completely blended, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
  • Thicken Soup: Whisk cornstarch with a bit of water until well combined. Stir this slurry into the soup and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until thickened to your liking.
  • Serve: Ladle the creamy soup into bowls and top each serving with the crispy panko mixture. Enjoy while hot for the ultimate comfort.

Notes

This Million Dollar Soup is best served hot, topped with crispy panko and a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
Keyword Comforting Meal, Creamy Soup, easy recipe, Hearty Soup, Million Dollar Soup, Winter Soup