Creamy mushroom soup has been my ultimate comfort food since childhood. I remember rainy afternoons spent watching my mom stir a pot that smelled like pure earthy goodness, a far cry from the canned stuff. She’d always say she was making a proper cream of mushroom soup from scratch, and the rich, velvety texture was proof. This recipe is my homage to those cozy memories, offering an incredibly satisfying and easy creamy mushroom soup that’s perfect for any day you need a little warmth. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Mushroom Soup
You’re going to adore this soup! It’s a real winner for so many reasons:
- Incredible Flavor: It boasts a deep, earthy mushroom taste with a wonderfully rich and savory profile.
- Quick to Make: This easy creamy mushroom soup comes together in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Hearty & Comforting: It’s wonderfully filling and satisfying, making it a perfect meal on its own.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses common, affordable ingredients you likely already have.
- Family Approved: Even picky eaters usually love this smooth, delicious soup.
- Customizable: Easily adjust seasonings or add other veggies to make it your own.
- A True Classic: It’s the ultimate easy creamy mushroom soup that feels both gourmet and familiar.
Ingredients for Creamy Mushroom Soup
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this fantastic mushroom soup recipe with cream. I always start with a mix of mushrooms for the best earthy flavor, but cremini or button mushrooms work beautifully too. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons butter – for sautéing and richness
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – helps prevent butter from burning
- 1 medium onion, chopped – about 1 cup, provides a sweet base
- 3 garlic cloves, minced – adds that essential savory aroma
- 1 pound mushrooms (such as cremini, button, or a mix), sliced – the star of the show!
- 1 teaspoon thyme leaves – fresh or dried, for an herbaceous note
- Salt and black pepper to taste – essential for balancing flavors
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – this is key for thickening our soup
- 4 cups vegetable broth – the liquid base that carries all the flavor
- 1 cup heavy cream – for that luxurious, velvety texture
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional) – adds a fresh finish
How to Make Creamy Mushroom Soup
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, start by melting the 2 tablespoons of butter with the 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the 1 medium onion, chopped, and cook until it’s softened and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen!
- Step 2: Stir in the 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for just another minute until you can smell their fragrance. Next, add the 1 pound of sliced mushrooms and the 1 teaspoon of thyme leaves. Cook them down, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes. You’ll see them release their liquid and then start to brown nicely, concentrating their flavor – this is crucial for a delicious soup.
- Step 3: Sprinkle the 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the mushrooms and onions. Stir everything together to coat the ingredients evenly. Cook this mixture for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This step helps cook out the raw flour taste and starts the thickening process for our creamy mushroom soup.
- Step 4: Gradually pour in the 4 cups of vegetable broth while whisking continuously. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to incorporate any browned bits. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes, allowing it to slightly thicken. This is a key stage in how to make creamy mushroom soup that has a wonderful consistency.
- Step 5: Reduce the heat to low. Slowly stir in the 1 cup of heavy cream. Let the soup simmer gently for another 5 minutes. It’s important not to let it boil once the cream is added, as this can cause it to curdle. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Step 6: For that signature velvety texture, use an immersion blender to carefully blend the soup until it reaches your desired smoothness. You can blend it completely or just pulse it a few times for a chunkier soup. This is the secret to achieving that perfect velvety mushroom soup. Serve your masterpiece piping hot, perhaps with a sprinkle of chopped parsley if you like. That’s how to make creamy mushroom soup that’s truly special!
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Mushroom Soup
Want to elevate your homemade soup game? These tips will ensure your creamy mushroom soup is absolutely perfect every time. I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that make a huge difference!
- Use a variety of mushrooms: Mixing cremini, shiitake, and even oyster mushrooms adds incredible depth of flavor and a more complex texture to your mushroom bisque recipe.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Brown your mushrooms in batches if necessary. This allows them to caramelize properly, bringing out their best umami notes instead of just steaming them.
- Deglaze with wine: After browning the mushrooms, a splash of dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) before adding the broth adds a fantastic layer of acidity and complexity.
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What’s the secret to perfect creamy mushroom soup?
The magic lies in browning the mushrooms really well to develop deep flavor, and using a roux (flour and fat) to thicken the soup to a luscious, velvety mushroom soup consistency. Taking the time to cook out the raw flour taste is also vital!
Can I make creamy mushroom soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the soup up to the point of adding the cream a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. Reheat gently over low heat, then stir in the cream and warm through. This is a great meal prep strategy.
How do I avoid common mistakes with creamy mushroom soup?
Avoid boiling the soup after adding cream, as it can curdle. Also, don’t skip browning the mushrooms well; this step is crucial for flavor. Lastly, ensure you cook the flour for a minute or two to avoid a pasty texture.
Best Ways to Serve Creamy Mushroom Soup
This comforting soup is wonderfully versatile. For a truly satisfying meal, I love pairing it with a crusty baguette or some homemade garlic bread for dipping into that delicious broth. It’s a fantastic starter for a special dinner or a hearty lunch on its own. A side salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the richness of this rich mushroom soup beautifully, cutting through the creaminess with a fresh, bright contrast. For more serving ideas, check out these food pairings.
Nutrition Facts for Creamy Mushroom Soup
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for a serving of this delightful soup. It’s a comforting choice that balances richness with essential nutrients.
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more details on healthy eating, you can consult resources on nutrition.
How to Store and Reheat Creamy Mushroom Soup
Properly storing and reheating your creamy mushroom soup ensures it stays delicious and safe to eat. After cooking, let the soup cool down slightly on the counter for about an hour before transferring it to airtight containers. This helps prevent condensation, which can affect texture. You can store it in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, your creamy mushroom soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop over low heat. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and to help how to thicken mushroom soup if it has separated slightly. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can sometimes make the texture less appealing. If reheating from frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator first. For more tips on food storage, explore food safety guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Mushroom Soup
What is creamy mushroom soup?
Creamy mushroom soup is a rich, savory soup made primarily from mushrooms, broth, and a creamy element like heavy cream or milk. It’s known for its comforting texture and deep, earthy mushroom flavor, often thickened with a roux or pureed mushrooms.
Why is mushroom soup creamy?
Mushroom soup is creamy because of the addition of dairy products like heavy cream, milk, or half-and-half, which add richness and a smooth mouthfeel. Thickening agents such as a flour-based roux or pureed mushrooms also contribute to its signature velvety texture, making it a truly satisfying dish.
Can I make vegan creamy mushroom soup?
Absolutely! For a delicious vegan version, simply swap out the butter for olive oil or vegan butter, use vegetable broth, and substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream. This makes a fantastic vegan creamy mushroom soup that’s just as satisfying.
What can I use instead of heavy cream in mushroom soup?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you have options! For a similar richness, full-fat coconut milk or a homemade cashew cream works wonderfully. You can also use half-and-half or even whole milk, though the soup might be slightly less rich. These alternatives still help achieve a lovely texture for your mushroom cream soup.
Variations of Creamy Mushroom Soup You Can Try
This classic creamy mushroom soup is so adaptable! If you’re looking for different ways to enjoy it, consider these delicious twists. For a lighter, yet still satisfying option, you can easily create a dairy-free creamy mushroom soup by using full-fat coconut milk or a homemade cashew cream instead of heavy cream. It’s a fantastic way to keep that luxurious texture. If you want to explore a completely plant-based approach, a vegan creamy mushroom soup is simple to make by ensuring all ingredients are plant-derived. You could also try a baked version, pouring the soup into individual ramekins and topping with breadcrumbs before baking for a delightful crust. Or, for an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of sherry or a pinch of nutmeg! You might also enjoy these other recipe variations.
PrintEasy Creamy Mushroom Soup: 1 amazing recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy mushroom soup is a comforting and earthy classic, perfect for chilly days or when you crave something rich and soothing. Made with a variety of mushrooms, garlic, onions, and finished with cream, this soup delivers deep umami flavor in every spoonful. It’s smooth, hearty, and surprisingly simple to make.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound mushrooms (such as cremini, button, or a mix), sliced
- 1 teaspoon thyme leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and thyme, then cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and have released their moisture. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Sprinkle in the flour and stir to coat the mushrooms evenly. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while stirring, ensuring the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 to 12 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for another 5 minutes, making sure not to boil once the cream is added. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup, depending on your preference. Serve hot, optionally garnished with chopped parsley.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute milk or half-and-half for the cream.
- You can enhance the flavor by adding a splash of white wine before the broth.
- If you prefer a chunky texture, skip blending and leave the mushrooms whole.
- Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
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