Dolly Parton Stampede Soup: Ultimate 6-Step Comfort Recipe

Name: Dolly Parton Stampede Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 tbsp butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 cup evaporated milk; 1/2 cup diced carrots; 1/2 cup diced celery; 1/2 cup chopped onions; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed; Salt and pepper to taste

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When a recipe gets requested again and again in our house, I know it’s a keeper. This Dolly Parton Stampede Soup, a creamy, cozy classic served at Dolly’s famous dinner attraction,is one of those dishes. Rich with flavor and layered with comfort, this soup brings all the goodness of a night out into your own kitchen. Whether you call it copycat Dolly Parton Stampede Soup or your new favorite creamy chicken soup, you’re in for something soul-satisfying. In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly why we love it, what goes in it, how to make it, and tips to make it even better.

Table of Contents

Why You Will Love This Dolly Parton Stampede Soup

Comfort in Every Spoonful

Let me tell you, when I first tasted this soup at Dolly’s Stampede dinner show, it wasn’t just good, it was unforgettable. It was creamy, buttery, and just the right amount of savory. Back home, I knew I had to recreate it. And once I did? It became an instant favorite. What makes this Dolly Parton Stampede Soup so special is its balance; hearty without being heavy, rich without overwhelming, and simple enough for weeknights. It feels like a hug in a bowl.

Every time I serve it, my husband gives me that look, the one that says “please make this again tomorrow.” That’s a win in my book.

A Versatile Crowd-Pleaser

Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, making a cozy Sunday lunch, or looking for a starter for a Southern-inspired dinner, this soup delivers. It’s also easy to make your own; add shredded chicken, swap in veggies, or go all in on creaminess. The base is just that forgiving.

Plus, if you’re a fan of creamy recipes like our Creamy Taco Soup, then this dish will hit all the right notes. The flavor is familiar but different, and it’s that subtle uniqueness that keeps folks coming back for more.

Stay tuned for what goes into this magic bowl, because you might already have most of the ingredients.

Ingredients for the Perfect Copycat Dolly Parton Stampede Soup

Pantry Staples Meet Creamy Goodness

One of the best parts of making copycat Dolly Parton Stampede Soup at home is how pantry-friendly it is. You don’t need anything fancy, just simple, reliable ingredients that work together to create deep, rich flavor. That’s what makes this recipe a regular in our dinner rotation. Most of these items are probably already in your kitchen!

Here’s what you’ll need:

Butter – Adds that unmistakable richness. Don’t skimp here.
All-purpose flour – For thickening the base.
Chicken broth – Use low-sodium for more control.
Evaporated milk – Key to that creamy texture without being too heavy.
Cooked chicken – Shredded or cubed; rotisserie works great.
Vegetables – Carrots, onions, celery. Classic and comforting.
Salt & pepper – To taste, of course.

These ingredients come together to form a broth that’s silky smooth, perfectly seasoned, and loaded with flavor. No mystery packets, no artificial shortcuts.

Easy to Shop, Easy to Prep

If you’re short on time, you can swap fresh veggies for frozen or pre-chopped ones. I’ve even used leftover roasted chicken with amazing results. It’s flexible and forgiving; just how weeknight dinners should be.

Want to make it vegetarian? Sub the chicken for hearty beans or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead. For a lighter version, try low-fat milk or a blend of milk and broth.

And if you like soup recipes that lean into pantry-friendly comfort, you’ll probably love our White Bean Soup too. It’s another creamy favorite that uses everyday ingredients to create something truly satisfying.

How to Make Dolly Parton Stampede Soup Step-by-Step

Build the Creamy Base First

Start by grabbing a large pot or Dutch oven. Melt your butter over medium heat until it’s bubbling slightly. This is where the flavor begins. Whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux; it should look like a thick paste. Let it cook for a minute or two, just to lose that raw flour taste.

Now slowly pour in your chicken broth, whisking constantly. The mixture will begin to thicken almost immediately. Once smooth, add in the evaporated milk. Stir well to combine. It’ll start to take on that signature creamy look. That’s when you know you’re on the right track.

Toss in your chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Let them simmer in the creamy broth for about 15 minutes, or until tender. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom.

Add the Chicken and Simmer to Perfection

Once the veggies are soft, it’s time to add the shredded chicken. Stir it in and let the soup simmer for another 5–10 minutes. This gives everything a chance to marry together, and the chicken gets nice and juicy in the broth.

Season with salt and pepper to taste, and that’s it. Seriously. It’s that easy.

Serve hot with warm rolls or a slice of cornbread. And if you’re feeling inspired to try more cozy classics, our Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is another back-pocket winner when comfort is what you’re craving.

Tips and Variations to Make It Your Own

Time-Saving Tips for Busy Days

This soup already comes together quickly, but here are a few tricks to make it even easier. First, use rotisserie chicken; shredded and ready to go. It cuts your prep time in half. Second, swap fresh chopped veggies with a frozen mirepoix blend (onion, carrot, celery). It’s a total game-changer on hectic weeknights.

Short on evaporated milk? No problem. Mix equal parts whole milk and half-and-half for a rich alternative. You can even prep the entire base ahead of time and just stir in the chicken before serving.

Also, this soup reheats like a dream. Store it in an airtight container for up to four days in the fridge. Just reheat gently to keep the creaminess intact, no need to boil.

Fun Twists and Flavor Boosters

This copycat Dolly Parton Stampede Soup is super adaptable. Want a little heat? Add a pinch of cayenne or stir in some diced jalapeños. Craving extra veggies? Toss in corn, spinach, or even a handful of frozen peas. Looking for extra protein? Try white beans or even diced ham in place of chicken.

For a heartier bowl, serve it over rice or cooked egg noodles. And for a silky restaurant-style finish, blend part of the soup before adding the chicken. It creates that next-level creaminess that feels like it simmered all day.

If you’re into cozy veggie-forward bowls, try our Creamy Vegetable Soup next; it has a similar soul-warming vibe with an all-veggie twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dolly Parton Stampede Soup made of?

It’s a creamy chicken and vegetable soup with a base of butter, flour, chicken broth, and evaporated milk. Carrots, celery, and onions add depth, while cooked chicken gives it that signature heartiness.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely. This soup stores beautifully. Keep it in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, just avoid boiling, which can cause the milk to separate.

Is Dolly Parton Stampede Soup gluten-free?

The original version uses all-purpose flour as a thickener, so it’s not gluten-free by default. But you can easily substitute with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for a GF-friendly version.

Can I freeze this soup?

Technically, yes. But cream-based soups can sometimes change texture after freezing. If you want to freeze it, do so before adding the evaporated milk. Then stir in the dairy fresh when you reheat.

Final Spoon

There’s just something special about a recipe that starts with butter and ends with empty bowls. Dolly Parton Stampede Soup brings people together, whether you’re serving it on a quiet night at home or as a cozy appetizer at a gathering. It’s creamy, flavorful, and made with real, simple ingredients. And the best part? You don’t have to travel to the Stampede to enjoy it.

Try it once and you’ll see why it’s become a staple in our home. It’s not just a soup; it’s a Southern hug in a bowl.

And for more easy and satisfying recipes, join me on Pinterest – where good food meets great company!

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Copycat Dolly Parton Stampede Soup