Dolly Parton Stampede Creamy Vegetable Soup Recipe

If you’re a fan of hearty, comforting dishes that feel like a warm hug in a bowl, then the Dolly Parton Stampede Creamy Vegetable Soup might just become your new go-to recipe. Inspired by the flavors from Dolly Parton’s famous dinner attraction, this soup captures the essence of what makes her food so special: a blend of Southern hospitality, rich, velvety textures, and fresh, wholesome ingredients.

Whether you’re serving it as a starter for a family meal or enjoying it on a cool evening to cozy up with, this soup is guaranteed to hit the spot. What’s even better? It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but decadent enough for a special occasion. So grab your apron and let’s dive deep into this delicious recipe!

Dolly Parton Stampede Creamy Vegetable Soup Recipe

This recipe gives you a creamy, flavorful soup filled with vibrant vegetables. It’s not just about comfort; it’s about celebrating the best of Southern flavors in one pot. Rich, creamy, and perfectly spiced, this soup is sure to satisfy everyone around the table.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this iconic soup. You probably already have most of these items in your pantry, which makes this recipe both accessible and convenient.

  • 1 tablespoon butter – Adds richness and depth to the base of the soup.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil – Balances the butter and prevents it from burning.
  • 1 medium onion, diced – A classic aromatics starter for flavor.
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced – Garlic is essential for a savory foundation.
  • 2 cups carrots, diced – Provides sweetness and texture.
  • 2 cups celery, diced – Another vegetable that brings crunch and freshness.
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen) – Adds a touch of sweetness and color.
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced – Helps thicken the soup and provides heartiness.
  • 4 cups vegetable broth – The base for the soup’s liquid, ensuring it’s flavorful.
  • 2 cups half-and-half – This is what gives the soup its creamy, dreamy texture.
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – A subtle herb that enhances the overall flavor.
  • Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning the soup to your liking.
  • 1 tablespoon flour – Helps thicken the soup just enough.
  • 1 cup milk – Smooths out the texture and balances the richness.

Cooking Instructions

Let’s break it down step by step, so you can make this soup without any hiccups.

  1. Sauté The Veggies

    • In a large soup pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This should take about 4-5 minutes.
  2. Add The Hard Veggies

    • Toss in the carrots, celery, and potatoes. Stir well to combine, allowing them to cook for an additional 5 minutes. This will give them a slight tenderness before we add the liquids.
  3. Incorporate Broth And Corn

    • Pour in the vegetable broth, then add the corn kernels. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
  4. Make It Creamy

    • In a small bowl, whisk the half-and-half, milk, and flour together until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the soup, stirring constantly to prevent any lumps from forming.
    • Continue to cook on low heat, stirring often, until the soup thickens to your desired consistency (around 5-10 minutes).
  5. Season And Serve

    • Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed.
    • Once everything is perfectly combined and the soup is rich and creamy, remove it from heat and serve immediately.

Ingredient Insights

  • Butter and Olive Oil: The combination of butter and olive oil is key here. The butter adds the silky richness that makes the soup feel luxurious, while olive oil keeps it from being overly greasy.
  • Vegetables: The blend of carrots, celery, and potatoes is a classic in soups, but it’s the corn that adds a unique Southern touch, bringing a natural sweetness to the dish. The potatoes also help create that signature creamy texture.
  • Half-and-Half vs. Cream: Half-and-half offers a lighter touch than heavy cream, so you get the richness without the extra calories. It’s the perfect middle ground to achieve that smooth, creamy soup without making it too indulgent.
  • Thyme: Dried thyme has a subtle, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the vegetables. It’s a key herb in Southern cooking and elevates this simple soup to something extra special.

Expert Tips

  • Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: While you want your vegetables to be tender, avoid overcooking them so they don’t lose their texture and vibrancy. Keep an eye on them as they simmer.
  • Use Fresh Herbs: While dried thyme is wonderful, fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary can give the soup a more robust flavor. Feel free to experiment!
  • Make Ahead and Freeze: This soup stores beautifully. If you have leftovers (or want to make a batch ahead of time), let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
  • Add Protein: If you want to make this soup even heartier, try adding some cooked chicken or even bacon bits for a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy base.

Recipe Variations

  • Vegan Version: Swap the half-and-half and milk with coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version. Use vegetable broth and avoid any animal-based seasonings.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños for a subtle heat that gives the soup a bit of a Southern zing.
  • Cheesy Twist: Stir in some grated cheddar cheese at the end of cooking for a cheesy version of the soup. This creates an even richer, more indulgent dish.
  • Potato-Free Version: For a lighter version, skip the potatoes and add an extra cup of cauliflower. This adds creaminess without the carbs.

Final Words

Dolly Parton’s stampede-inspired creamy vegetable soup is a beautiful representation of what comfort food should be: simple, full of flavor, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Each spoonful is a balance of sweetness, creaminess, and just the right amount of seasoning to keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

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