Creamy Mushroom Soup is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days! Rich, velvety, and packed with earthy mushroom flavor, it’s a simple yet luxurious soup that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a starter for a special meal. Whether you’re a mushroom lover or just craving something warm and satisfying, this soup is sure to hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy: A velvety texture that feels indulgent.
- Easy to make: Ready in under an hour with simple ingredients.
- Versatile: Perfect as a starter, side, or main dish.
- Customizable: Add your favorite herbs, spices, or toppings.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb fresh mushrooms (button, cremini, or a mix), sliced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Cook the Mushrooms
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices and become tender.
3. Add Flour
Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Add Broth
Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add dried thyme if using. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Blend for Creaminess (Optional)
For a smooth texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, or leave it chunky if preferred.
6. Finish with Cream
Stir in the heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 5 minutes until heated through.
7. Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms have the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Rush the Sauté: Let the mushrooms cook until they release their juices for maximum flavor.
- Adjust Consistency: For a thicker soup, add more flour or reduce the broth slightly.
- Garnish Creatively: Add a drizzle of truffle oil, a sprinkle of Parmesan, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flair.
Variations and Add-Ons
This recipe is super versatile! Here are some fun ways to customize it:
- Creamy Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with vegan butter, the broth with vegetable broth, and the heavy cream with coconut cream.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.
- Herbaceous Touch: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or tarragon.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, sausage, or tofu for a heartier meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Mushroom Soup is perfect for:
- Lunch or Dinner: Serve with crusty bread or a side salad.
- Holiday Meals: A luxurious starter for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
- Cozy Nights: Pair with a glass of white wine for a relaxing evening.
- Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the soup (without the cream) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove, adding the cream before serving.
- Reheating: Warm on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
Can I use dried mushrooms?
Yes! Rehydrate dried mushrooms in warm water, then chop and add them to the soup.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sauté the onions, garlic, and mushrooms first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the cream before serving.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the soup will be less rich. For a thicker consistency, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of milk before adding it to the soup.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This Creamy Mushroom Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, velvety, and packed with earthy mushroom flavor. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it as a cozy weeknight meal, it’s sure to impress.
Let’s Cook Together!
I’d love to hear how your Creamy Mushroom Soup turns out! Share your results in the comments below or tag me on social media with #LivelyDish. Happy cooking! 🍲✨