Creamy Mushroom Soup

About This Recipe

Few dishes are as comforting and versatile as a warm bowl of creamy mushroom soup. Earthy mushrooms are simmered with aromatics, herbs, and broth before being blended into a silky, velvety texture, then enriched with cream for luxurious depth. This soup can be enjoyed as a starter, a light lunch, or even as a satisfying dinner when paired with crusty bread or a simple salad.

Creamy Mushroom Soup strikes the perfect balance between rustic and refined. It is hearty enough to warm you on a cold evening yet elegant enough to serve at a dinner party. The recipe is straightforward, using common pantry and fresh ingredients, making it approachable for cooks of all levels.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb fresh mushrooms (a mix of cremini, button, and shiitake works best), sliced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step by Step Instructions

1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and thyme. Cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms release their liquid and become golden brown, about 8 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to coat. This step thickens the soup. Cook for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
5. Gradually pour in the broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce the heat and let the soup cook gently for 15 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
7. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer in batches to a blender and carefully blend until creamy.
8. Return the soup to low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and milk, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat gently until warmed through, without boiling.
9. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for the Best Creamy Mushroom Soup

• Use a variety of mushrooms. Combining different types enhances depth and complexity. Cremini and shiitake bring earthy richness, while white button mushrooms add mildness.
• Sauté mushrooms properly. Allow them to brown and caramelize for maximum flavor instead of crowding the pan.
• For extra richness, replace part of the cream with half-and-half or add a splash of dry white wine before simmering.
• Blend to your desired consistency. For a rustic version, leave part of the soup chunky instead of fully pureeing.
• Always season in layers—taste after blending and adjust salt and pepper before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

• For a dairy-free option, replace butter with olive oil and use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream.
• To make it vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Add roasted garlic for a deeper, sweeter flavor.
• Include a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika to give the soup extra warmth.
• Stir in cooked wild rice, barley, or quinoa for a heartier meal.
• Garnish with crispy fried mushrooms or croutons for added texture.

FAQ

Can I use only one type of mushroom?
Yes, white button mushrooms will still produce a delicious soup, though using a variety creates more complex flavor.

Can I make this soup without cream?
Absolutely. Substitute milk, half-and-half, or plant-based alternatives for a lighter version.

Do I need a blender?
An immersion blender works best, but you can carefully use a countertop blender. If you prefer, skip blending entirely for a chunkier, rustic texture.

Can I add protein to the soup?
Yes. Cooked shredded chicken, crumbled sausage, or even white beans can be stirred in after blending.

You Must Know

Do not allow the soup to boil after adding cream, as this can cause curdling. Always heat gently over low heat once the dairy is incorporated. Blending hot soup requires caution—vent the blender lid slightly and work in batches to avoid pressure buildup.

Storage Tips

Cool the soup completely before refrigerating in an airtight container. It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. For best reheating results, warm over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Avoid microwaving for long periods, which can cause the cream to separate. For freezing, omit the cream until reheating to maintain the smooth texture.

Conclusion

Creamy Mushroom Soup is a timeless comfort food that combines earthy mushrooms, aromatic herbs, and rich cream into a bowl of velvety warmth. It is simple enough for everyday cooking yet refined enough to impress guests. By using a blend of mushrooms and following the tips for sautéing and blending, you can achieve a soup with incredible depth of flavor.