The depth of flavor in this homemade Cream of Mushroom Soup is unmatched. With sautéed cremini mushrooms, fresh thyme, garlic, and a luxurious swirl of cream, every spoonful offers a warm, earthy hug of pure comfort.
This recipe comes together with surprisingly simple ingredients, yet feels utterly gourmet. Whether you’re curling up with a bowl by the fire or serving it as a sophisticated starter for a dinner party, this dish delivers richness and warmth in every bite.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 ½ pounds cremini mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
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1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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Salt to taste
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4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
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Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat.
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Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
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Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the mushrooms and thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Sauté until the mushrooms release their juices and begin to brown, about 10-12 minutes.
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Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
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Gradually add the stock while stirring to prevent lumps. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 15 minutes.
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Remove from heat and use an immersion blender (or a countertop blender in batches) to blend until smooth or desired texture.
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Return soup to low heat, stir in the cream, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Simmer for 5 more minutes.
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Cream of Mushroom Soup
There’s something inherently comforting about a bowl of creamy soup, especially when it’s homemade. The richness of cream, the earthiness of mushrooms, and the savory undertones of garlic and thyme combine to create a dish that feels both luxurious and nostalgic. Cream of Mushroom Soup is one of those timeless recipes that has stood the test of time, finding its place in kitchens all around the world. Whether served as a comforting lunch or a light dinner, this classic soup is guaranteed to bring warmth to your soul.
The best part about making this Cream of Mushroom Soup from scratch is that it’s surprisingly simple yet feels indulgent and gourmet. It’s the perfect dish for when you want to impress guests at a dinner party or simply treat yourself to a cozy meal. With a few key ingredients and a little patience, you’ll have a velvety, rich, and delicious soup that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
The Art of Mushroom Soup
Mushrooms are the star of this soup, and their versatility makes them a perfect choice for a wide variety of dishes. When it comes to soups, the flavor of mushrooms is deep, earthy, and comforting, making them a natural fit for this dish. Cremini mushrooms, with their slightly nutty flavor, are often the go-to variety for a cream of mushroom soup, but other types like button mushrooms or even wild mushrooms can be used to add variety and complexity to the dish.
The key to a truly rich and flavorful mushroom soup is proper sautéing. Cooking the mushrooms down until they release their juices allows their natural umami to shine through, which deepens the soup’s flavor. The addition of garlic, fresh herbs like thyme, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce adds layers of savory goodness that make every spoonful a mouthwatering experience.
Why Homemade is Better
While canned or store-bought cream of mushroom soups are convenient, nothing beats the taste of homemade. Store-bought varieties often contain preservatives and additives that can detract from the flavor, while homemade versions allow you to control the ingredients and ensure the soup is as fresh and flavorful as possible. Additionally, making soup from scratch gives you the freedom to adjust the seasonings to your liking and add extra touches like fresh herbs or a splash of lemon juice to balance the richness of the cream.
Homemade soup also gives you the opportunity to choose high-quality ingredients. Opting for fresh, organic mushrooms and high-quality cream can elevate the dish to another level. Plus, when you make the soup yourself, you can ensure it’s free from any unwanted additives or artificial ingredients.
Health Benefits of Cream of Mushroom Soup
Though rich and indulgent, Cream of Mushroom Soup can be surprisingly healthy when made with wholesome ingredients. Mushrooms themselves are low in calories but packed with nutrients, making them a fantastic addition to any meal. They are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including potassium, selenium, and B vitamins. Mushrooms are also rich in antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage and support overall health.
Using cream in moderation is another reason this soup can be a healthier choice compared to other indulgent dishes. If you’re looking to cut back on calories or dairy, you can easily substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a lighter version of cream. Additionally, the combination of garlic and thyme provides a host of health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties, immune-boosting effects, and digestive support.
Perfect Pairings for Cream of Mushroom Soup
Cream of Mushroom Soup is versatile enough to be served as a starter, a side dish, or a main course. When pairing it with other dishes, the creamy texture of the soup works beautifully with something crunchy or hearty. A slice of freshly baked crusty bread or a warm baguette is the perfect accompaniment for dipping into the soup and absorbing all the rich flavors.
If you’re serving this soup as a main course, consider pairing it with a fresh green salad. The lightness of the salad, with a tangy vinaigrette, complements the richness of the soup. For a heartier meal, serve the soup alongside a roasted chicken or a piece of grilled fish. The contrast in textures and flavors elevates the dining experience.
Customizing the Soup to Your Taste
One of the best things about making Cream of Mushroom Soup is the ability to customize it to suit your tastes. While the classic version uses cremini mushrooms, you can experiment with different varieties such as shiitake, oyster, or portobello mushrooms. Each type of mushroom brings its own unique flavor profile, allowing you to create a soup that’s truly your own.
Additionally, you can experiment with seasonings. Fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, or parsley can be used in place of thyme, or you can add a hint of truffle oil for an upscale twist. For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick to the soup.
If you prefer a thicker or thinner consistency, you can adjust the amount of cream or stock you use. For a creamier soup, add more heavy cream, or for a lighter version, reduce the amount of cream and increase the stock. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s highly adaptable and can be tailored to meet your preferences.
Serving and Storing the Soup
When serving Cream of Mushroom Soup, a garnish of fresh parsley or chives can add a pop of color and freshness. A drizzle of cream or a sprinkle of grated parmesan also makes for a lovely finishing touch. If you want to make the soup even more decadent, top it with croutons or sautéed mushrooms for extra texture.
This soup can be made ahead of time, which makes it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining. Simply allow the soup to cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it for longer storage, ensure the soup is completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. The soup can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it over low heat on the stove, adding a little extra cream or stock to adjust the consistency if needed.
Conclusion
Cream of Mushroom Soup is a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. It’s the perfect dish for cold weather or when you need something that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. With its rich and earthy flavors, this soup is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it. Whether you enjoy it as a light meal or as part of a larger spread, homemade mushroom soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
What makes this soup so special is its ability to be both comforting and sophisticated. It’s the kind of dish that can be made for a family dinner on a chilly evening or served at a dinner party for guests who appreciate fine homemade food. With the right ingredients and a little love, you can create a rich, velvety bowl of soup that will warm the hearts and bellies of everyone who has the pleasure of tasting it.
By making Cream of Mushroom Soup at home, you not only get to enjoy a healthier and more flavorful version of the dish, but you also experience the joy of cooking something from scratch. There’s a certain satisfaction in preparing a dish that’s as simple as it is delicious. So the next time you’re craving something cozy and comforting, reach for the mushrooms and get ready to enjoy a bowl of homemade goodness.