If you’ve ever reached for a can of soup only to find your pantry empty, this Pioneer Woman Homemade Cream of Anything Soup is the perfect solution. It’s a simple, flavorful, and preservative-free alternative to store-bought soups — giving you full control over the ingredients while keeping that comforting creamy taste.
Whether you need cream of mushroom, cream of chicken, or cream of celery, this homemade version can replace them all. Plus, it’s ready in just 15 minutes using everyday pantry staples like butter, flour, milk, and broth.
🥣 Why You’ll Love Pioneer Woman’s Homemade Cream of Anything Soup
This versatile recipe by the Pioneer Woman is more than just a soup — it’s a delicious, thick base that can be used in casseroles, sauces, gravies, or as a standalone dish. With a few quick tweaks, you can customize it to fit any recipe or flavor preference.
Top reasons to love this recipe:
- Quick & easy: Ready in 15 minutes.
- Budget-friendly: Uses inexpensive ingredients you likely already have.
- Customizable: Works for mushroom, chicken, or celery versions.
- Healthier option: No preservatives or excess sodium.
- Better taste: Fresh ingredients always make a difference.
🧈 Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup whole milk (for best creaminess)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup add-ins (like mushrooms, cooked chicken, or celery, pre-cooked)
👩🍳 How to Make Pioneer Woman’s Homemade Cream of Anything Soup
Step 1: Melt the Butter
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat until it starts to bubble.
Step 2: Make the Roux
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. This removes the raw flour taste and forms the base of your soup.
Step 3: Add the Liquids
Slowly whisk in the broth, followed by the milk. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
Step 4: Season It
Add onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all flavors.
Step 5: Thicken the Soup
Simmer for 5–7 minutes while whisking until it thickens to a condensed-soup-like consistency.
Step 6: Add Your Flavor
Mix in your desired add-ins like sautéed mushrooms, diced chicken, or celery. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
Step 7: Use or Store
Use immediately in casseroles, sauces, or as a creamy soup. Let it cool before refrigerating or freezing.
💡 Helpful Tips for Perfect Homemade Cream Soup
- Cook the roux properly — it prevents a raw flour taste.
- Use whole milk for the richest, creamiest texture.
- Add pre-cooked ingredients last to maintain texture.
- Simmer slowly to achieve that thick, condensed consistency.
- Taste before salting — especially if using salted broth.
- Double the batch and freeze extras for quick meal prep.
🌿 Flavor Variations You’ll Love
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: Add sautéed mushrooms and a touch of soy sauce.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: Stir in shredded cooked chicken.
- Cream of Celery Soup: Use finely diced, sautéed celery.
- Cheesy Twist: Melt in cheddar for extra richness.
- Herb-Infused Version: Add fresh thyme or parsley for freshness.
🧊 Storage & Reheating Tips
To Store:
- Refrigerate in a sealed jar or container for 4–5 days.
- Freeze in portions for up to 2 months (cool completely first).
To Reheat:
- Stovetop: Heat gently while whisking until smooth.
- Microwave: Warm in short intervals, stirring between each.
- From Frozen: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat.
⚖️ Nutrition Facts (Approx. per 1 cup)
- Calories: ~180
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
(Values may vary depending on broth type and add-ins.)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I make the soup thicker?
Simmer longer to reduce the liquid or whisk in a tablespoon of cornstarch slurry for extra thickness.
2. Can I replace canned soup with this homemade version?
Absolutely! One cup of this recipe equals one can of condensed soup — perfect for casseroles, sauces, or gravies.
3. What add-ins work best?
Mushrooms, chicken, or celery are classic options. You can also experiment with spinach, broccoli, or cheese.
4. How long does it stay fresh?
It lasts 4–5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.
🥄 Final Thoughts
The Pioneer Woman Homemade Cream of Anything Soup is the ultimate kitchen hack — creamy, comforting, and far better than anything from a can. With a handful of pantry ingredients, you can create a rich, versatile soup base that enhances casseroles, gravies, and countless other dishes.
Once you try this easy homemade condensed soup substitute, you’ll never go back to store-bought again!
Also Read: Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Meatloaf Recipe