Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe

Spoonful by velvety spoonful, this Creamy Mushroom Soup wraps you in comfort and rich, woodsy flavors. Nothing beats the earthy aroma of mushrooms sautéing with butter and herbs, especially when it’s all blended into a luscious, creamy bowl that’s perfect for cozy evenings or elegant starters.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for Creamy Mushroom Soup is a breeze, and each one plays a starring role. From the mellow sweetness of onions to the savory umami of mushrooms and tamari, every element adds its own touch to the final, flavor-packed result.

• Extra-virgin olive oil & unsalted butter: This classic combo creates a rich, flavorful base for sautéing the onion and mushrooms.
• Medium yellow onion: Chopped and softened to release sweetness and a subtle depth that anchors the soup.
• Sea salt & freshly ground black pepper: Enhances the natural flavors and brings the dish perfectly into balance.
• White button mushrooms (1 lb): Their mild flavor builds the heart of the soup and ensures silky texture when blended.
• Cremini mushrooms (8 oz): Just a little earthier, they add complexity and deepen the mushroom profile.
• Garlic cloves: Grated to release their aromatic punch that perfumes each bite.
• Dry white wine: Adds brightness, acidity, and a touch of sophistication to the soup’s broth.
• Vegetable broth: Forms the backbone of the soup, keeping it savory while highlighting the mushrooms.
• Tamari: A dash of this gluten-free soy sauce essence amps up umami and brings amazing savory depth.
• Fresh thyme leaves: Their vibrant herbal aroma laces through every spoonful and makes the soup taste extra-special.
• Heavy cream or creme fraîche (optional): For that dreamy finish and extra richness—completely up to you!
• Chopped fresh parsley: A fresh pop of color and brightness for the perfect garnish.

Variations

One of the joys of Creamy Mushroom Soup is how flexible it can be. Make it your own by swapping ingredients or tweaking to suit your tastes, dietary needs, or whatever you have in your fridge—this recipe loves a little creativity!

• Dairy-Free Dream: Substitute coconut milk or unsweetened cashew cream for the heavy cream and use vegan butter for a plant-based version.
• Go wild with mushrooms: Add a handful of wild mushrooms like shiitake or porcini for a woodsy, gourmet twist.
• Herb surprise: Switch up the thyme for rosemary or add a sprinkle of tarragon to introduce a new flavor dimension.
• Add grains or pulses: Stir in cooked barley, farro, or lentils at the end for extra heartiness and nourishing texture.

How to Make Creamy Mushroom Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by warming extra-virgin olive oil and unsalted butter together in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Slide in those diced onions, sprinkle in the salt and a generous amount of pepper, and let them soften for about 2 minutes. You want them just translucent—fragrant and promising, but not browned.

Step 2: Sweat the Mushrooms

Next, add half of your sliced white button and cremini mushrooms. Stir gently and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their magical juices. Add the remaining mushrooms and keep cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring from time to time. The mushrooms should shrink and take on a deeper color and aroma by now.

Step 3: Build the Base

Add the grated garlic, giving it just about 30 seconds to bloom before pouring in the dry white wine. Let that wine bubble away—deglazing the bottom of the pot and capturing all those gorgeous mushroom flavors. Next, pour in the vegetable broth, tamari, and fresh thyme leaves. Stir well, cover, and let everything simmer for 15 minutes while your kitchen fills with heavenly smells.

Step 4: Blend for Creaminess

Once the soup has cooled slightly (just a few minutes!), ladle about two-thirds of it into your blender. Blend until silky smooth—this is where the “creamy” part of Creamy Mushroom Soup comes to life! Return the blended mixture to the pot with the remaining chunky soup.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

If you love even more decadence, swirl in the heavy cream or creme fraîche now and simmer for just a couple of minutes—just enough to warm through and mellow out the flavors. Taste for seasoning, then ladle into bowls. Drizzle with more olive oil or cream, scatter over chopped parsley and extra thyme, and serve immediately!

How to Serve Creamy Mushroom Soup

Garnishes

For picture-perfect Creamy Mushroom Soup, finish with a swirl of cream or crème fraîche, a drizzle of golden olive oil, and a shower of chopped fresh parsley and thyme. If you have a few sautéed mushroom slices leftover, perch them right on top for that chef’s kiss!

Side Dishes

This soup absolutely adores crusty breads—think toasted sourdough, a hunk of baguette, or garlicky crostini for dunking. A light green salad or a plate of simple roasted vegetables also rounds out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Ladle Creamy Mushroom Soup into mini cups for chic appetizer shooters at your next party, or serve it in rustic bread bowls for an extra-cozy, show-stopping main. Top with microgreens, edible flowers, or even crispy fried shallots for a little gourmet flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftover Creamy Mushroom Soup cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It stays fresh and delicious in the fridge for up to 4 days—perfect for meal prepping or next-day comfort lunches.

Freezing

Cream-based soups can be a little tricky to freeze, but you absolutely can! Freeze before adding cream for the best texture; when ready to enjoy, thaw and reheat, then stir in the dairy right before serving.

Reheating

Warm your Creamy Mushroom Soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If needed, add a splash of broth or cream to refresh the consistency—you’ll be rewarded with flavors just as sumptuous as day one.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something hearty, nurturing, and irresistibly flavorful, Creamy Mushroom Soup is sure to become a repeat favorite. Don’t hesitate—gather your mushrooms and give this recipe a try. I can’t wait for you to taste how wonderful it is!

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