Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Mushroom Soup is a rich, flavorful dish that combines earthy mushrooms with a velvety smooth broth, creating the perfect comfort food. The blend of sautéed mushrooms, onions, garlic, and cream results in a hearty soup that’s not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. It’s an ideal dish for cold weather, perfect as an appetizer or a main course. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation process, this creamy mushroom soup is a go-to for any occasion.

Creamy Mushroom Soup

Ingredients

1 pound mushrooms, sliced (button mushrooms or a mix of wild mushrooms works best)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and become golden brown.
Sprinkle the dried thyme, salt, and pepper over the mushrooms and stir well.
Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 10-12 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes over low heat, adjusting seasoning if needed.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

Vegan Creamy Mushroom Soup: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or any plant-based cream alternative. Use olive oil in place of butter.
Spicy Mushroom Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small diced jalapeño to the soup while sautéing the mushrooms for some heat.
Herbed Mushroom Soup: Use fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, or tarragon instead of dried thyme for a unique twist on flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Make sure it cools completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or cream to achieve your desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I use different types of mushrooms?

Yes, feel free to use a variety of mushrooms such as cremini, shiitake, portobello, or oyster mushrooms. Mixing them can give the soup a more complex flavor.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will even improve after a day or two.

How can I make the soup thicker?

If the soup is too thin, you can blend it longer to create a thicker consistency. Alternatively, you can add a bit more heavy cream or a small amount of flour to thicken it up.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Creamy Mushroom Soup is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any wheat or gluten-based ingredients. Just make sure to double-check your broth for any hidden gluten.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative to make it dairy-free. You can also replace the butter with olive oil.

How do I store leftover soup?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Be sure to stir the soup well after reheating.

Can I use dried mushrooms?

Yes, you can use dried mushrooms, but you’ll need to rehydrate them before adding them to the soup. Soak them in hot water for about 20-30 minutes, then drain and proceed with the recipe.

Can I make this soup with less cream?

Yes, you can reduce the amount of cream for a lighter version, or substitute it with half-and-half or a milk-based alternative to make it less rich.

What can I serve with creamy mushroom soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a light salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Creamy Mushroom Soup is a classic comfort food that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with a smooth, creamy base. It’s simple to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion, from a weeknight dinner to a holiday feast. With its warm, hearty texture and rich taste, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try adding your own variations and make it your own!