Description

This Cheesy Ranch Soup is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with the irresistible tang of ranch seasoning. Packed with shredded chicken, crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and a luscious cream base, it’s a soul-warming bowl of comfort that’s as hearty as it is flavorful. Whether you're cozying up on a chilly evening or serving a crowd, this soup is guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients!

Ingredients

• For the Soup:
• 4 slices of bacon, diced
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 celery ribs, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 4 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• For the Creamy Base:
• 8 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ⅓ cup heavy cream
• For Garnish:
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Crumbled bacon

Preparation Method

Start with the Bacon:
Heat a large pot over medium heat and cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, reserving some of the drippings for extra flavor.

Build the Flavor Base:
Add the butter to the bacon drippings in the pot. Once melted, sauté the onion and celery until softened and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to let it burn.

Create Your Soup:
Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the ranch seasoning mix and black pepper. Add the shredded chicken and let everything simmer for about 5 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to meld.

Make It Creamy:
Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the cream cheese, allowing it to melt completely. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until the soup becomes smooth and creamy.

Finish with Fresh Touches:
Add the chopped spinach and stir until wilted. Finally, pour in the heavy cream and stir gently to combine. Avoid boiling the soup after adding the cream to maintain its silky texture.

Garnish and Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with crispy bacon, extra cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Tips for Keeping It Fresh:
This soup stays delicious for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream to restore its creamy texture. It can also be frozen, though the texture of the cream may change slightly upon thawing.

Make It Your Own:
Add Heartiness: Toss in egg noodles or cooked pasta for a more filling meal.
Boost the Veggies: Carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.
Spice It Up: A dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes will add a zesty kick.
Low-Carb Options: Skip the noodles and load up on additional vegetables instead.

Tips and Conclusion

Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken—it’s a game changer!
If you don’t have ranch seasoning mix, make your own with equal parts garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and parsley.
After adding the cream, avoid boiling the soup to keep the texture velvety smooth.

This Cheesy Ranch Soup is a hearty, indulgent dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. With its rich, creamy texture and bold flavors, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. Don’t forget to explore other comforting recipes on our site, and let us know how you make this soup your own. Happy cooking!