Unleash Your Inner Cowpoke: Dolly Parton’s Stampede Soup Recipe
Craving a hearty, flavorful, and comforting soup that’ll transport you straight to the Wild West (or at least to a fantastic dinner table)? Look no further than Dolly Parton’s Stampede Soup! This recipe, inspired by the famous dinner show, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, packed with delicious ingredients and surprisingly easy to make at home. It’s the perfect dish for a chilly evening, a casual gathering, or anytime you need a dose of down-home goodness.
This guide will walk you through every step of creating your own Stampede Soup masterpiece, ensuring a delicious and authentic experience. Saddle up and let’s get cooking!
What is Dolly Parton’s Stampede Soup?
For those unfamiliar, Dolly Parton’s Stampede (formerly Dixie Stampede) is a live dinner show featuring horses, trick riders, and a whole lot of Southern charm. A highlight of the experience is the creamy, flavorful soup served before the main course. While the official recipe remains a closely guarded secret, countless variations have emerged, all aiming to capture the essence of that beloved Stampede Soup.
This recipe draws inspiration from those popular adaptations, combining common ingredients and techniques to create a soup that’s both delicious and reminiscent of the iconic dinner show. Expect a rich and creamy texture, a blend of savory flavors, and a touch of sweetness that makes it utterly irresistible.
The Secret to a Great Stampede Soup: Key Ingredients
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients that contribute to the unique flavor profile of Stampede Soup:
* **Chicken Broth:** Forms the base of the soup, providing a rich and savory foundation. Use high-quality chicken broth or homemade stock for the best flavor.
* **Cream Cheese:** The secret ingredient for the signature creamy texture and tangy flavor. Full-fat cream cheese works best for optimal richness.
* **Cream of Chicken Soup:** Adds depth and body to the soup, enhancing the chicken flavor and contributing to the creamy consistency. Opt for a low-sodium version to control the saltiness.
* **Chicken:** The star of the show! Cooked and shredded chicken provides protein and a meaty element to the soup. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option, or you can cook your own chicken breasts or thighs.
* **Corn:** Adds sweetness and a pop of color. Frozen or canned corn can be used; drain canned corn before adding it to the soup.
* **Potatoes:** Contribute to the soup’s heartiness and provide a creamy texture when slightly broken down. Yukon gold or red potatoes work well.
* **Carrots:** Add sweetness and a touch of earthiness. Dice them finely for even cooking.
* **Onion:** Provides a savory base flavor. Yellow or white onions are suitable.
* **Celery:** Adds a subtle herbaceousness and aroma.
* **Butter:** Used for sautéing the vegetables, adding richness and flavor.
* **Seasonings:** A blend of herbs and spices enhances the overall flavor profile. Common seasonings include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Dolly Parton’s Stampede Soup Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: the recipe itself! This version is designed to be easy to follow and customizable to your preferences.
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 30 minutes
**Total Time:** 50 minutes
**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Ingredients:**
* 1 tablespoon butter
* 1 medium onion, diced
* 2 celery stalks, diced
* 2 carrots, diced
* 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
* 4 cups chicken broth
* 1 (10.75 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
* 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
* 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
* 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
* 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/4 teaspoon paprika
* Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, crumbled bacon
**Equipment:**
* Large pot or Dutch oven
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Measuring cups and spoons
**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté the Vegetables:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
2. **Add Potatoes and Broth:** Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
3. **Incorporate Cream Cheese and Soup:** Reduce heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese and cream of chicken soup to the pot. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Be careful not to let the soup scorch.
4. **Add Chicken and Corn:** Stir in the cooked and shredded chicken and the drained corn. Heat through for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. **Season to Taste:** Season the soup with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Adjust the seasonings to your liking.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, or crumbled bacon. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Best Stampede Soup
* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** The better the ingredients, the better the flavor of the soup. Invest in good-quality chicken broth and fresh vegetables.
* **Don’t Overcook the Potatoes:** Overcooked potatoes will become mushy and affect the texture of the soup. Cook them until they are tender but still hold their shape.
* **Soften the Cream Cheese:** Make sure the cream cheese is softened before adding it to the soup. This will help it melt more easily and prevent lumps from forming.
* **Simmer Gently:** After adding the cream cheese and soup, simmer the soup gently to prevent scorching. Stir frequently to ensure even heating.
* **Adjust the Seasonings:** Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Add more vegetables, such as mushrooms or zucchini, to compensate for the lack of chicken.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Use a Slow Cooker:** For a hands-off approach, combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
* **Make it Ahead:** Stampede Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
* **Freeze for Later:** Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
One of the great things about Stampede Soup is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique version.
* **Spicy Stampede Soup:** Add a can of diced tomatoes and green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
* **Cheesy Stampede Soup:** Add shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese to the soup for extra cheesiness.
* **Hearty Stampede Soup:** Add cooked bacon or sausage to the soup for a heartier meal.
* **Vegetable-Packed Stampede Soup:** Add more vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, to the soup.
* **Creamy Tomato Stampede Soup:** Add a can of crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce to the soup for a tomato-based flavor.
* **White Bean Stampede Soup:** Add a can of drained and rinsed white beans to the soup for extra protein and fiber.
* **Southwestern Stampede Soup:** Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and chili powder for a Southwestern-inspired version.
Serving Suggestions
Stampede Soup is a delicious and satisfying meal on its own, but it can also be served with a variety of accompaniments.
* **Cornbread:** A classic Southern pairing. Serve the soup with warm, buttery cornbread.
* **Crackers:** Provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.
* **Grilled Cheese Sandwich:** A comforting and satisfying combination.
* **Salad:** A light and refreshing side dish to balance the richness of the soup.
* **Biscuits:** Fluffy and buttery biscuits are another great Southern accompaniment.
* **Toppings:** Offer a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheese, chopped green onions, sour cream, or bacon bits, for guests to customize their soup.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)
* Calories: 300-400
* Protein: 20-25g
* Fat: 15-20g
* Carbohydrates: 20-25g
*Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe successfully captures the essence of Dolly Parton’s Stampede Soup because it focuses on the key elements that make the soup so beloved:
* **Creamy Texture:** The combination of cream cheese and cream of chicken soup creates a luxuriously creamy texture that’s both comforting and satisfying.
* **Savory Chicken Flavor:** The chicken broth and shredded chicken provide a rich and savory chicken flavor that’s the heart of the soup.
* **Subtle Sweetness:** The corn and carrots add a touch of sweetness that balances the savory flavors and makes the soup incredibly addictive.
* **Easy to Make:** The recipe is straightforward and uses readily available ingredients, making it easy for anyone to make at home.
* **Customizable:** The recipe can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and preferences, allowing you to create your own unique version of Stampede Soup.
More Southern-Inspired Recipes
If you enjoyed this Dolly Parton’s Stampede Soup recipe, you might also like these other Southern-inspired dishes:
* **Classic Chicken and Dumplings:** A comforting and hearty Southern staple.
* **Shrimp and Grits:** A creamy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for brunch or dinner.
* **Fried Green Tomatoes:** A crispy and tangy Southern appetizer.
* **Pecan Pie:** A sweet and nutty Southern dessert.
* **Sweet Potato Casserole:** A creamy and comforting side dish that’s perfect for holidays.
Conclusion: Bring the Stampede Home!
Dolly Parton’s Stampede Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s a taste of Southern hospitality, a comforting bowl of warmth, and a reminder of the fun and excitement of the dinner show. With this recipe, you can bring the Stampede home and share the joy with your family and friends. So gather your ingredients, put on some country music, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone saying “Yeehaw!”
Enjoy your homemade Dolly Parton’s Stampede Soup! Remember to share your creations and variations in the comments below. Happy cooking!