This Christmas, My Family Renamed It “Holiday Hug in a Bowl” – And It’s Requested at Every Gathering!

Every holiday season, families have that one dish that becomes the star of the table. For mine, it’s what we affectionately call the “Holiday Hug in a Bowl.” Creamy, comforting, and bursting with festive flavors, this recipe has become a tradition that everyone eagerly requests. The best part? It’s simple to prepare, yet indulgent enough to feel like a special treat. Here’s how you can make it step by step.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this cozy, heartwarming bowl, gather the following:

2 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups diced potatoes
2 cups chopped carrots
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup frozen peas
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (optional for a meaty version)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Tip: You can swap the chicken for a plant-based protein to make it vegetarian.

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start by melting the butter in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until they’re fragrant and translucent—about 3–4 minutes. This creates the flavorful base that makes the soup taste like a “hug.”