Million Dollar Soup

Million Dollar Soup is the kind of comforting, creamy bean soup that tastes far more luxurious than the ingredient list suggests. With tender white beans, smoky tofu, soft potatoes, fresh baby spinach, and a silky finish from sour cream, this hearty soup delivers richness, depth, and warmth in every spoonful. It's simple enough for weeknights, impressive enough for guests, and exactly the kind of recipe you'll want to make again and again.

If you're looking for a creamy white bean soup with potatoes and smoky flavor that feels indulgent yet wholesome, this is it.

Why This Million Dollar Soup Is Worth Making

There's a reason this soup earns its name. The combination of creamy beans, savory smoked tofu, warming paprika seasoning, and a smooth sour cream finish creates a flavor profile that feels layered and satisfying. The potatoes add body and substance, while fresh spinach balances everything with color and freshness.

Unlike many creamy soups that rely heavily on blended dairy or flour-based roux, this recipe builds its richness from the beans themselves and a light thickening from cornstarch. The result is creamy but not heavy, hearty but not overwhelming.

It's a true one-pot meal that works beautifully for meal prep, family dinners, or cozy evenings when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients That Make This Soup Special

White beans form the heart of this recipe. They create a naturally creamy base and absorb the flavors of paprika, garlic, and vegetable broth beautifully. Using canned beans keeps preparation easy while still delivering depth.

Smoked tofu brings a subtle smoky, savory note that makes the soup taste more complex. Lightly coating it in cornstarch before browning gives it a delicate crust that holds up well in the creamy broth.

Paprika seasoning and chili flakes add warmth and gentle heat. Potatoes provide structure and heartiness, turning this into a complete meal rather than a light starter. Fresh baby spinach adds brightness and texture right at the end.

The final addition of sour cream transforms the broth into a velvety, rich finish that makes this soup feel truly "million dollar."

How to Make Million Dollar Soup

Begin by cutting the smoked tofu into small cubes and tossing them gently with cornstarch until evenly coated. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat and sauté the tofu until golden and lightly crisp on the outside. Remove and set aside.

In the same pot, add chopped onion and cook until translucent and soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Add sliced potatoes and sprinkle in paprika seasoning and chili flakes, allowing the spices to bloom in the oil.

Pour in vegetable broth and add the drained white beans. Simmer gently until the potatoes are fork-tender and the flavors have melded. Return the browned tofu to the pot and stir in the baby spinach, allowing it to wilt into the soup.

Lower the heat and fold in the sour cream until the soup becomes creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, optionally with extra paprika or a swirl of sour cream on top.

What Makes This Soup Different from Other White Bean Soups

Many white bean soups rely on blending part of the beans to achieve creaminess.

This recipe achieves a naturally rich texture without extensive blending. The smoked tofu adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish, while the potatoes create a stew-like body.

The balance of smoky, creamy, savory, and slightly spicy elements makes this soup stand out from simpler bean soups. It feels layered and thoughtfully composed rather than basic.

When to Serve Million Dollar Soup

This soup works beautifully as a weeknight dinner served with crusty bread. It also makes an excellent lunch option because it reheats exceptionally well.

For gatherings, serve it as a cozy starter during fall and winter or as a hearty main course for casual dinners.

Because it's filling and satisfying, it's ideal for colder months, but the brightness of spinach makes it suitable year-round.

Storage and Leftovers

Million Dollar Soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days in an airtight container. The flavors deepen as it rests, making leftovers especially delicious.

When reheating, warm gently over medium-low heat and stir occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it.

It can also be frozen, though the texture may change slightly due to the sour cream. If you plan to freeze it, consider stirring in the sour cream only after reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

You can substitute cannellini beans or great northern beans if preferred.

For extra depth, add a small amount of smoked paprika. If you enjoy more heat, increase the chili flakes.

For a thicker consistency, mash a portion of the beans directly in the pot before adding the sour cream.

If you prefer a lighter soup, reduce the sour cream slightly and add extra broth.

Frequently Asked Questions About Million Dollar Soup

More Recipe Recommendations

• Million Dollar Spaghetti
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• Black Bean Soup
• Corn Soup

A Final Note

If you make this Million Dollar Soup, I'd love to see it. Please share your bowl on Instagram or Facebook and tag me so I can admire your creation.

And if you enjoyed it, I'd truly appreciate it if you left a comment and a star rating below.

Your feedback means so much to me and helps others discover this recipe.

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