The aroma of simmering vegetables and spices fills the kitchen as I prepare Million Dollar Soup—a dish that brings back memories of cozy evenings spent with family. I remember the first time I made this soup; the warmth and comfort it provided were simply unforgettable. This recipe matters to me because it is easy to make, and it warms the heart and soul. It’s an inviting meal that you can share with loved ones or enjoy alone, wrapped in a blanket on a chilly day. What makes this soup special is its rich flavors and simplicity; despite its name, it’s affordable and uses everyday ingredients you probably already have on hand.
why make this recipe
Million Dollar Soup is perfect for those nights when you want something filling and nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s packed with fresh vegetables, pasta, and savory broth, making it a comforting meal for any occasion. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables! This recipe is also versatile—you can add whatever you have on hand, making it easy to tailor to your taste.
how to make Million Dollar Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pasta (any shape)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup carrots, chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: grated cheese for serving
Directions:
- In a large slow cooker, add the broth, diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the pasta to the slow cooker.
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir well and serve hot. Top with grated cheese if desired.
how to serve Million Dollar Soup
Serve Million Dollar Soup hot in bowls, and if you like, sprinkle some grated cheese on top. You can also offer crusty bread or crackers on the side to complement the meal. This soup can be a hearty lunch or dinner option, perfect for family gatherings or meal prep for the week.
how to store Million Dollar Soup
To store Million Dollar Soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure to leave some space for expansion. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
tips to make Million Dollar Soup
- Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer.
- You can add your favorite vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- If you want a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes.
- To make it more filling, you can add cooked chicken or beans for protein.
variation
You can easily customize this recipe by using different broths, such as beef or a homemade vegetable stock. Additionally, switching up the Italian seasoning for other herbs like thyme or basil will give a different flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen vegetables work great in this recipe. Just add them to the slow cooker without thawing.
How can I make this soup vegan?
Simply use vegetable broth and skip the cheese when serving.
Can I cook this soup on the stovetop?
Yes! Just bring all the ingredients to a boil in a large pot, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Add the pasta in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Million Dollar Soup
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 cup pasta (any shape)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup carrots, chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings
- grated cheese for serving
Method
Preparation
- In a large slow cooker, add the broth, diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the pasta to the slow cooker.
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir well and serve hot. Top with grated cheese if desired.