Is there anything more comforting than a bowl of creamy, velvety mushroom soup? Whether you're seeking a cozy weeknight dinner or a starter for an elegant meal, Cream of Mushroom Soup is a crowd-pleaser. This recipe makes 4 hearty servings and is perfect for home cooks who appreciate a touch of indulgence in their soups.
Follow this simple, step-by-step guide to creating the ultimate Cream of Mushroom Soup that’s loaded with rich flavors and designed for soup lovers and foodies alike.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Made in under 30 minutes!
- Rich and Creamy: A perfect balance of earthy mushrooms and velvety cream.
- Customizable: Perfect for vegetarians and easy to make vegan with simple swaps.
- Impressive Yet Simple: Looks gourmet but is totally achievable for home cooks.
Now, grab your apron, and let's get cooking!
Ingredients You'll Need
Before you begin, make sure to have the following ingredients on hand. These staples come together to create a robust and creamy mushroom-packed soup.
What You'll Need:
- Butter (2 tbsp): For sautéing and a rich flavor base. Use plant-based butter for a vegan option.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Helps prevent the butter from burning.
- Mushrooms (400g/14oz): Use a mix of cremini, button, or shiitake for depth in flavor.
- Onion (1 medium, finely chopped): Creates a flavorful aromatic base.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Because everything’s better with garlic.
- All-Purpose Flour (3 tbsp): Thickens the soup. Use gluten-free flour if needed.
- Vegetable Stock (3 cups): Enhances the soup’s flavors. Chicken stock works too!
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): Adds creaminess. Substitute with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free option.
- Salt & Black Pepper (to taste): Bring all the flavors together.
- Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Optional, but it adds freshness.
Optional Toppings:
- Croutons, a drizzle of truffle oil, or grated Parmesan.
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prep the Mushrooms
Wash and pat dry the mushrooms, then slice them thinly. Pro tip: A mix of mushroom varieties (like shiitake and cremini) gives the soup a more complex flavor profile.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Heat the butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Enjoy the incredible aroma that fills your kitchen!
3. Cook the Mushrooms
Toss in the mushrooms and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally. They will release their water at first and then begin to brown. This step builds a deep, savory flavor for your soup.
4. Add the Flour
Sprinkle in the flour and stir well for 1-2 minutes to coat the mushrooms. The flour acts as the thickener, so don’t skip this step! If you're gluten-free, substitute with a preferred thickening agent like cornstarch.
5. Pour in the Stock
Gradually pour in the vegetable stock while stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for 10 minutes. The soup will thicken nicely as it cooks.
6. Blend to Perfection
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches. Prefer some texture? You can leave a few mushroom pieces intact for a chunky bite.
7. Add Cream and Season
Stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 2 minutes until the soup is velvety smooth. If needed, adjust the thickness by adding a splash of stock.
8. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls, and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Add optional toppings like croutons or a drizzle of truffle oil for a gourmet touch.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Mushroom Soup
- Use Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh, firm mushrooms yield the best flavor. Avoid mushy or slimy ones.
- Don’t Wash Mushrooms Underwater: Instead, wipe them with a damp cloth. Mushrooms absorb water like sponges, which can dilute the flavor.
- Customize It: Add a dash of white wine when cooking the mushrooms for a slightly tangy flavor boost. Not a fan of heavy cream? Coconut milk works well for a lighter, dairy-free version.
- Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Why Home Cooks Love Cream of Mushroom Soup
This Cream of Mushroom Soup is the epitome of comfort food. It’s perfect for cold evenings, light lunches, or as an elegant starter to impress guests. It fits perfectly into cozy family dinners or gourmet foodie gatherings. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted for various dietary needs without compromising flavor.
Gather Your Ingredients and Start Cooking!
Now that you know how to make this easy Cream of Mushroom Soup, it’s time to bring magic to your dining table. Whether you’re a soup lover or simply looking to try something new, this recipe guarantees satisfaction in every spoonful.
Feeling inspired? Try this recipe today and share your creations with us! Tag [Your Brand/Website] on social media with your soup-loving photos.
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