Rich, velvety, and deeply comforting, Cream of Mushroom Soup is a beloved classic that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Made with fresh mushrooms, aromatic herbs, garlic, and a smooth cream base, this soup is perfect for cozy nights, elegant starters, or as a hearty lunch paired with crusty bread. Whether you're preparing it from scratch or upgrading a traditional version, cream of mushroom soup delivers gourmet taste with everyday ingredients.
Ingredients
| Unsalted butter | 3 tablespoons (45 grams) |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon (15 ml) |
| Fresh mushrooms (cremini, button, or a mix) | 1 pound (450 grams) |
| Shallots or yellow onion, finely chopped | 2 medium (or 1 medium onion) |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves (about 10 grams) |
| All-purpose flour | ¼ cup (30 grams) |
| Vegetable broth or chicken broth | 4 cups (960 ml) |
| Heavy cream (whipping cream) | 1 cup (240 ml) |
| Fresh thyme leaves (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
| Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) | 2 tablespoons |
Cooking Steps
Sauté the Aromatics and Mushrooms
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot. Sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have released their moisture and are nicely browned. Browning the mushrooms is crucial for deep, rich flavor.
- Add the chopped shallots (or onion) and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for another 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the shallots are softened and translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Build the Roux and Add Broth
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the mushroom and shallot mixture. Stir constantly for 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste, creating a roux that will thicken the soup.
- Gradually whisk in the vegetable or chicken broth, a little at a time, continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
Simmer and Blend (Optional)
- Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Add the fresh thyme leaves (if using).
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and deepen. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- For a smoother soup: If you prefer a very smooth soup, you can blend about half to two-thirds of the soup using an immersion blender directly in the pot, or carefully transfer portions to a regular blender (vent the lid and cover with a towel to prevent hot splashes!). Leave some mushroom pieces for texture, or blend it all for a super creamy consistency.
Finish and Season
- Stir in the heavy cream. Heat through gently for a few minutes, but do not bring to a rolling boil after adding the cream.
- Season the soup generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. The flavors should be rich and balanced.
Serve
- Ladle the hot cream of mushroom soup into bowls.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and an extra crack of freshly ground black pepper.
- Serve immediately, perhaps with some crusty bread for dipping.
Extra Tips for Perfect Cream of Mushroom Soup
- Browning is Key: Don't rush the mushroom browning step. This develops essential umami flavor.
- Quality Broth: A good quality broth will significantly enhance the overall flavor of your soup.
- Adjust Thickness: If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth. If it's too thin, you can make a small slurry of cornstarch and cold water, whisk it in, and simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
- Fresh Herbs: While dried thyme can be used, fresh thyme offers a brighter, more aromatic touch.
- Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if it's too thick.
Nutritional Value
| Calories | 200-280 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 5-8 grams |
| Fat | 15-22 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 10-15 grams |
| Fiber | 2-3 grams |
Benefits
- ✅ Nutrient-Rich: Mushrooms are an excellent source of B vitamins, potassium, and antioxidants.
- ✅ Immune-Boosting: Contains compounds like beta-glucans found in mushrooms that support immune function.
- ✅ Low in Calories: Despite its creamy texture, it can be light and nutritious when made with low-fat dairy or plant-based alternatives.
- ✅ Gut-Friendly: Mushrooms contain prebiotics that help nourish healthy gut bacteria.
- ✅ Versatile Meal Option: Can be served as a starter, main course, or even used as a base for other recipes like casseroles or sauces.
Cream of Mushroom Soup is more than just a warm bowl of comfort—it’s a nourishing, flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Whether you prefer it silky-smooth or with hearty mushroom chunks, this soup is a timeless staple for cold days, special dinners, or when you're craving something cozy and satisfying.
Explore our collection of comfort food recipes, homemade soups, and mushroom-based dishes to inspire your next culinary creation. Don’t forget to save your favorite recipes and share your creamy soup moments with our foodie community!