Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe

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If you’re on the lookout for a cozy, comforting bowl to warm your soul and impress your taste buds, this Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe is an absolute winner. Silky smooth yet packed with earthy mushroom flavor, it strikes the perfect balance between luxurious creaminess and aromatic herbs, making it an ideal starter or light meal on any chilly day. You’ll find this homemade version far surpasses any canned counterpart, offering fresh, vibrant ingredients that come together effortlessly to create a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the key to this Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe tasting just right. The simplicity of fresh mushrooms, aromatic onions, and just a handful of other pantry staples transforms into a soup bursting with rich flavor, creamy texture, and enticing aroma.

• Fresh mushrooms (1 pound): Choose cremini, button, or shiitake for depth and earthiness, sliced thin to release maximum flavor.
• Onion (1 medium): Finely chopped to provide a subtly sweet and aromatic base that lifts the whole soup.
• Garlic (2 cloves): Minced for a gentle pungency that enhances the mushrooms without overpowering.
• Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): Melts smoothly to enrich the soup and perfectly sauté the vegetables.
• Vegetable broth (4 cups): Acts as the flavorful liquid foundation, keeping the soup light yet savory.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): Brings a luscious, velvety texture that turns this soup into a comforting indulgence.
• Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Adds an herbal note that compliments the mushroom’s earthiness beautifully.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors to life.
• Fresh parsley or chives (optional): A sprinkle at the end for a bright, fresh pop of color and taste.

How to Make Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Mushrooms and Aromatics

Start by cleaning the mushrooms with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt and slice them thinly so they cook evenly and release their natural juices. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic; these aromatics will form the delicious flavor base for your soup.

Step 2: Sauté Onions Until Translucent

In a large pot or Dutch oven, gently melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent, which will give your soup a lovely sweetness and depth.

Step 3: Introduce the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another 1-2 minutes. This brief cooking time ensures the garlic’s fragrance blossoms without turning bitter, waking up the whole flavor profile.

Step 4: Cook the Mushrooms

Next, toss in your sliced mushrooms. Cook them for 8 to 10 minutes until they have softened and released their juices, creating that rich mushroom umami that’s the heart of this Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe.

Step 5: Season the Mixture

Sprinkle in the dried thyme, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Give everything a good stir so the herbs and seasoning evenly coat the mushrooms and soften onions, layering in fragrance and flavor.

Step 6: Simmer in Vegetable Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and raise the heat just enough to bring it all to a gentle simmer. Let the soup bubble softly for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld into a rich, comforting broth.

Step 7: Blend Until Smooth

Using an immersion blender, carefully puree the soup directly in the pot until silky smooth. This step transforms the ingredients into that signature creamy texture that makes this Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe such a treat.

Step 8: Stir in the Cream

Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Let the soup warm through for another 5 minutes, which will thicken it slightly and add that decadent, velvety mouthfeel everyone loves.

Step 9: Final Seasoning and Serving

Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Ladle your soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a delightful burst of color and freshness.

How to Serve Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds not just a vibrant green pop but also a fresh contrast to the creamy earthiness of the soup. For a bit of texture, consider topping with toasted nuts or a drizzle of truffle oil if you’re feeling indulgent.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a warm baguette for dipping. A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette also balances the soup’s richness perfectly. For a heartier meal, try serving it alongside roasted chicken or a savory quiche.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in stylish mugs for a casual lunch or in elegant bowls for a dinner party. You could also turn it into a dramatic starter by serving individual portions inside hollowed-out mini sourdough loaves, letting guests enjoy the bread dipped right into the soup’s creamy goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled quickly after cooking preserves the fresh flavor and texture beautifully.

Freezing

This soup freezes very well. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of room for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat your soup on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring often to prevent scorching. If the soup has thickened too much after refrigeration or freezing, stir in a splash of broth or cream to bring it back to that perfect creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use other types of mushrooms for this Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! While cremini, button, and shiitake mushrooms are traditional and add great flavor, feel free to experiment with portobello, chanterelles, or even porcini for an extra earthy depth. Just ensure they are cleaned and sliced thinly for even cooking.

Is it possible to make this soup vegan?

Yes, you can easily make a vegan version by swapping butter with olive oil or vegan margarine, using a plant-based cream alternative, and ensuring your vegetable broth is vegan-friendly. The soup will still be deliciously creamy and flavorful.

Can I prepare Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe in a slow cooker?

Definitely! Sauté the onions, garlic, and mushrooms first to build flavor, then transfer everything to a slow cooker with broth and thyme. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then blend and add cream at the end for a perfect slow-cooked result.

Should I peel the mushrooms before cooking?

Generally, peeling mushrooms is unnecessary and a bit tedious. A gentle wipe with a damp cloth or paper towel is sufficient to clean mushrooms without compromising their texture or flavor.

What is the best way to store leftover soup to retain flavor?

Storing your soup in airtight containers in the fridge helps maintain freshness. Label with the date, consume within 3 days, and avoid repeatedly reheating the same batch to keep the flavors bright and the texture creamy.

Final Thoughts

This Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe is truly one of those comforting dishes that never goes out of style and always feels like a special treat. Whether you’re welcoming guests or simply craving a cozy night in, this homemade soup is a delicious way to celebrate the humble mushroom in all its creamy glory. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!

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