When it comes to comfort food that warms the soul and takes you on a journey to a cozy kitchen, few dishes stand out like a hearty, rich soup. And if you’re craving something that has both a touch of Southern charm and a big burst of flavor, look no further than the Dolly Parton Stampede Soup. Inspired by the iconic Dollywood experience, this soup captures the essence of the Southern culinary tradition, with flavors that are both indulgent and satisfying.
But here’s the kicker: it’s easy to make! Yes, you can bring the tastes of Dolly’s beloved Stampede to your own table, and trust me, once you make this soup, you’ll want it again and again.
Let’s dive into this Dolly Parton Stampede Soup Recipe so you can start savoring every bite.
Dolly Parton Stampede Soup Recipe
This delightful soup has become a fan favorite for many who’ve experienced the famous Dolly Parton Stampede Dinner Show. The dish is hearty, comforting, and packed with bold flavors, making it a perfect addition to any cold night or family gathering. It has a creamy texture with a subtle smokiness from the bacon, complemented by the tender chicken and vegetables. The recipe is easy to recreate, allowing you to bring a bit of Dollywood magic into your kitchen.
Ingredients Needed
Before you get cooking, here’s a rundown of the key ingredients you’ll need to make this creamy and savory soup:
- Chicken Breast: Boneless and skinless, cooked and shredded. This gives the soup a tender, protein-packed base.
- Bacon: This brings that salty, smoky flavor to the soup. You’ll want it crispy and crumbled into the mix.
- Yellow Onion: Adds depth and sweetness to balance the savory elements.
- Carrots: These tender, slightly sweet vegetables bring color and crunch to the soup.
- Celery: Adds freshness and a nice crunch when cooked, giving texture to the soup.
- Potatoes: You’ll need Russet potatoes, peeled and diced. These help create a thick, hearty base.
- Heavy Cream: This gives the soup its creamy richness.
- Chicken Broth: A flavorful, rich base for the soup.
- Cheddar Cheese: This brings a melty, cheesy goodness to the soup.
- Cornstarch: For thickening the soup and achieving that luscious, creamy consistency.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme are essential for flavoring the soup.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the vegetables and bacon.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s break down the steps to make this soup from start to finish. It’s a pretty straightforward process, and you’ll be enjoying this Southern-inspired dish in no time.
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Cook The Chicken
- Start by boiling the chicken breasts in a pot of water (about 20-25 minutes) until they are fully cooked. Once done, shred them using two forks and set them aside. Alternatively, you can use rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time.
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Cook The Bacon
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Once cooked, remove it from the pan, crumble it into small pieces, and set it aside.
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Sauté Vegetables
- In the same pot, leave a little bit of bacon grease and add olive oil if needed. Sauté the onions, carrots, and celery over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften and the onions turn translucent.
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Add The Potatoes
- Toss in the diced potatoes and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing them to slightly brown and soak up the flavors of the bacon and veggies.
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Combine With Broth And Seasoning
- Pour in the chicken broth, and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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Make It Creamy
- In a small bowl, combine the heavy cream and cornstarch. Slowly pour this mixture into the soup while stirring continuously to avoid clumps. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes as it thickens.
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Add The Chicken And Cheese
- Stir in the shredded chicken and cheddar cheese, allowing the cheese to melt and blend into the soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
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Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with crispy bacon crumbles, and enjoy the deliciousness of your creation!
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this soup plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures:
- Chicken Breast: Beyond providing protein, the shredded chicken gives the soup a light, yet filling, component. It soaks up the soup’s flavors while still holding its own.
- Bacon: Bacon’s smoky flavor adds depth and richness to the soup. The crispy bits also provide a pleasant crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy soup base.
- Heavy Cream: This ingredient is the key to that velvety smooth texture. It enhances the richness of the soup and creates a comforting, luxurious mouthfeel.
- Cheddar Cheese: The cheese gives the soup a delightful gooey consistency and a sharp flavor that complements the creaminess.
- Potatoes: The potatoes not only add body to the soup but also soak up all the savory goodness, making each spoonful feel hearty and satisfying.
Expert Tips
If you want to make this recipe even more foolproof, here are a few expert tips to help elevate your soup game:
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re pressed for time, using rotisserie chicken can save you a lot of work. Plus, it adds extra flavor since it’s already seasoned.
- Control the Thickness: If you like your soup extra creamy, add more heavy cream. If you prefer a thinner soup, reduce the amount of cornstarch or simply add a little more chicken broth.
- Add a Dash of Hot Sauce: If you like a little kick, a few dashes of hot sauce can really elevate the flavor profile.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: To give your soup a fresh touch, garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
- Use Fresh Potatoes: For the best texture, make sure to use fresh potatoes rather than pre-packaged ones. They’ll break down in the soup better, giving it that hearty, thick base.
Recipe Variations
If you’re looking to put your own spin on the Dolly Parton Stampede Soup, consider these tasty variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and bacon, and add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a meatless option. You could also add a can of white beans for protein.
- Spicy Twist: Add some diced green chilies, jalapeños, or cayenne pepper for extra heat. This will really pack a punch and make the soup even more flavorful.
- Add Corn: For a touch of sweetness and texture, add a cup of sweet corn to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Use Different Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, you could try adding Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even cream cheese for a different flavor experience.
Final Words
Making this Dolly Parton Stampede Soup at home is a wonderful way to bring a piece of Southern hospitality into your own kitchen. With its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and layers of flavor, it’s the kind of recipe that will become a regular in your weeknight dinner rotation. Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or just indulging in a cozy night alone, this soup will always hit the spot.