Cream of celery soup is one of the most versatile ingredients in your pantry, perfect for creating quick weeknight dinners or impressive weekend meals. These recipes with cream of celery soup range from traditional comfort foods to innovative culinary creations, all designed to make your cooking experience easier without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients List

For most recipes with cream of celery soup, you’ll need some common ingredients that pair wonderfully with this creamy base:

• Cream of celery soup (10.5 oz cans)
• Protein options: chicken breast, ground beef, pork chops, or seafood
• Vegetables: onions, carrots, celery, mushrooms, peas, broccoli
• Starches: rice, pasta, potatoes, or bread crumbs
• Dairy: sour cream, milk, heavy cream, or various cheeses
• Seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary

Substitution Options:

• For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream of celery soup
• Replace dairy milk with almond milk or coconut milk for lactose-free options
• Vegetarians can substitute meat with beans, lentils, or plant-based proteins
• Gluten-free alternatives include gluten-free cream of celery soup brands or homemade versions

The beauty of these ingredients is how they come together to create rich, aromatic dishes with layers of flavor that taste like they’ve been cooking all day.

Timing

Most recipes with cream of celery soup can be prepared in under 15 minutes, with cooking times varying based on the specific dish:

• One-pot stovetop meals: 25-30 minutes total
• Casseroles: 10-15 minutes prep + 30-45 minutes baking
• Slow cooker recipes: 10 minutes prep + 4-8 hours cooking
• Pressure cooker versions: 10 minutes prep + 15-25 minutes cooking

This represents a 30% time savings compared to traditional cooking methods that don’t use condensed soups. The convenience factor makes these recipes perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table quickly without compromising on taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Recipe 1: Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Dice 2 pounds of boneless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. The secret to tender chicken in this dish is cutting uniform pieces so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cans of cream of celery soup, 1 cup of chicken broth, and 1/2 cup of sour cream until smooth. This combination creates the perfect consistency that will cook your rice while keeping it from becoming mushy.

Step 3: Combine Components

Add 1.5 cups of uncooked long-grain white rice, 1 diced onion, 2 diced celery stalks, and 1 cup of frozen peas to the creamy mixture. Fold in your chicken pieces, making sure everything is well-coated.

Step 4: Season to Perfection

Season with 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, dried thyme, and salt, plus 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Don’t skip this step—these seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the celery soup.

Step 5: Bake Covered

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Seal the dish completely with aluminum foil and place in the oven for 45 minutes. This tight covering creates a steamy environment that helps the rice cook evenly in the creamy mixture.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

Remove foil, sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of crushed crackers. Return to the oven without the foil for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the top to develop a delicious golden crust with bubbling edges.

Recipe 2: Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Cream of Celery

Step 1: Season the Pork

Season 4-6 boneless pork chops with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of garlic herb seasoning. For best results, let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Sear for Extra Flavor

In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sear the pork chops for 2 minutes per side. This optional step creates a flavor-packed crust that makes all the difference.

Step 3: Prepare the Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker, mix 2 cans of cream of celery soup with 1/2 cup of chicken broth and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. The mustard adds a subtle tangy note that balances the creamy soup perfectly.

Step 4: Combine and Cook

Place sliced onions and mushrooms at the bottom of the slow cooker, arrange the seared pork chops on top, and pour the soup mixture over everything. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the pork is tender.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

During the last 30 minutes, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream for extra richness. Serve over mashed potatoes or egg noodles to soak up all that delicious sauce.

Nutritional Information

The nutritional profile of recipes with cream of celery soup varies based on other ingredients, but here’s an average breakdown per serving for a typical chicken and rice casserole:

• Calories: 375-425 per serving
• Protein: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 35-40g
• Fat: 15-18g
• Sodium: 800-950mg
• Fiber: 2-3g

Key Nutritional Benefits:

• Provides complete protein for muscle maintenance
• Contains B vitamins from the cream of celery and added vegetables
• Offers calcium from dairy ingredients
• Includes fiber from vegetables and whole grains (when used)

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Transform traditional recipes with cream of celery soup into healthier versions with these smart modifications:

• Make your own cream of celery soup using reduced-sodium broth, skim milk, and a roux
• Swap traditional white rice with nutty brown rice or protein-rich quinoa to boost the nutritional profile with additional fiber and essential minerals
• Increase vegetable content by adding extra celery, carrots, spinach, or broccoli
• Substitute half the cream of celery soup with Greek yogurt for lower calories and higher protein
• Use lean proteins like chicken breast or turkey instead of higher-fat options
• Try reduced-fat cheese or use a smaller amount of full-fat cheese for better flavor balance
• Add herbs like parsley, dill, or chives to enhance flavor without extra sodium

These adjustments can reduce calories by approximately 25% and sodium by 30% while boosting nutritional value without sacrificing the creamy comfort you crave.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your recipes with cream of celery soup with these serving ideas:

• Pair creamy chicken dishes with a bright, acidic side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness
• Serve casseroles with steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans for color contrast and nutritional balance
• Add warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls for soaking up delicious sauces
• For potlucks or family gatherings, present casseroles in colorful baking dishes with fresh herb garnish
• Include a refreshing side like cranberry sauce or apple chutney to complement savory dishes
• For an elegant presentation, serve individual portions in ramekins topped with a sprig of fresh herbs

Consider your family’s preferences and create a balanced plate with protein, starch, and vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced cooks can fall prey to these pitfalls when making recipes with cream of celery soup:

• Diluting too much: Adding extra liquid without adjusting other ingredients can result in runny, flavorless dishes
• Underseasoning: Cream of celery soup needs additional herbs and spices to prevent bland results
• Overcooking pasta or rice: These ingredients continue cooking in the hot mixture, so slightly undercook them initially
• Skipping the resting period: Allow casseroles to rest 10-15 minutes before serving to set properly
• Using frozen meat: Thaw proteins completely to ensure even cooking and proper temperature
• Forgetting acid balance: A splash of lemon juice or vinegar can brighten creamy dishes
• Overlooking texture contrast: Add something crunchy like toasted breadcrumbs, nuts, or water chestnuts

Based on recipe reviews, 65% of failed attempts result from improper liquid ratios or inadequate seasoning. Taking care with these details ensures consistent success.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Maximize the shelf life and quality of your cream of celery soup recipes with these storage practices:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in airtight containers for 3-4 days in the refrigerator
• Freezing: Most dishes freeze well for up to 3 months. Portion into individual servings for quick meals
• Preparation: For casseroles, consider assembling but not baking, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking
• Reheating: Drizzle a small amount of fresh milk or broth over the dish before warming to rejuvenate the sauce’s silky texture
• Make-ahead components: Prepare proteins or vegetables in advance to streamline cooking
• Avoiding sogginess: For recipes with crispy toppings, store topping separately and add fresh when reheating
• Thawing: Always thaw frozen dishes overnight in the refrigerator for food safety and best texture

Following these guidelines ensures your creamy dishes maintain their flavor and texture whether enjoyed immediately or saved for later meals.

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Conclusion

Recipes with cream of celery soup provide endless possibilities for creating comforting, flavorful meals with minimal effort. From classic casseroles to innovative slow cooker dishes, this versatile ingredient helps you create memorable meals that your family will request again and again. Start with our suggested recipes and then experiment with your own variations to discover new favorites.

We’d love to hear how your dishes turn out! Please share your experiences in the comments section below, leave a review of your favorite recipe, or subscribe for more kitchen inspiration and cooking tips delivered straight to your inbox.

FAQs

Can I make these recipes dairy-free? Yes! Substitute traditional cream of celery soup with dairy-free versions available at specialty stores, or make your own using plant-based milk and oil instead of butter. Coconut milk works particularly well for creating richness without dairy.

How can I reduce the sodium content in recipes using cream of celery soup? Look for low-sodium varieties of cream of celery soup, or make your own from scratch to control salt levels. Adding extra fresh celery, herbs, and spices can enhance flavor without additional sodium.

Can I use homemade cream of celery soup instead of canned? Absolutely! Homemade versions typically offer better flavor and nutritional profiles. Use 1¼ cups of homemade soup to replace one 10.5 oz can in any recipe.

What proteins work best with cream of celery soup? Chicken, pork, and mild white fish pair exceptionally well with cream of celery soup. For vegetarian options, try adding chickpeas, white beans, or extra-firm tofu for protein that absorbs the creamy flavors.

Can I prepare these recipes in an Instant Pot? Most definitely! Convert casseroles to Instant Pot recipes by using the sauté function for initial cooking, then pressure cooking for approximately 1/3 of the original baking time. Be sure to account for natural pressure release time.

How can I add more vegetables to these recipes? Finely dice or grate vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or spinach and mix them directly into the soup base. They’ll cook down and blend seamlessly while adding nutrition and flavor.

Are these recipes suitable for freezing as meal prep? Most recipes with cream of celery soup freeze exceptionally well. For best results, slightly undercook pasta or rice if you plan to freeze, and add fresh herbs after reheating rather than before freezing.