The Winter Soup That Everyone Loves Tastes Absolutely Amazing

We’re deep into soup season in the South, and if you’ve already made chicken noodle, tomato, and all your other go-to recipes, we’ve got a new one that will earn a permanent spot in your regular dinner rotation. Million Dollar Soup is already one of the most-saved soups on our site. Chicken sausage, butternut squash, white beans, bacon, and kale combine in a creamy but light broth to make a hearty meal that won’t weigh you down. As one commenter said, "Amazing the way all of the flavors come together. My whole family loved it!"

What Makes This Soup Worth a Million Dollars

Sometimes soups can taste a little one-note, but this one is filled with contrasting textures and flavors to make every bite interesting. Tender roasted squash and creamy white beans balances the chewy sausage and kale, and the addition of lemon zest and white wine adds brightness to the creamy broth.

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We really enjoy the robust nature of this soup, which resembles a stew more than anything else. A delicate roux enhances the broth's thickness, adding substantial depth. This dish is loaded with protein and veggies, transforming it into a fulfilling one-bowl meal. (Of course, a slice of cornbread on the side would make a delightful complement.)

The One Step You Should Never Overlook

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In Step 8, take three cups of the soup out of the pot and blend them until smooth. Then, return this mixture to the pot with the rest of the unblended soup. This process creates a rich and creamy texture that is essential to the dish. Skipping the blending will alter the final result significantly. If you have an immersion blender, you can blend directly in the pot—just be careful not to blend too much, as you want to maintain some texture in the soup.

Customize It to Suit Your Preferences

This soup recipe is highly customizable to match your preferences. You can replace the kale with Swiss chard, spinach, collard greens, or any leafy greens you enjoy. For an extra kick, consider using spicy Italian chicken sausage or drizzle in some hot sauce just before serving. If you want to switch things up, sweet potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes make excellent alternatives to butternut squash.