This Easy Cream of Mushroom Soup is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for a cozy night in. With a rich and creamy texture, savory mushroom flavor, and a hint of fresh herbs, this homemade soup is a delicious alternative to canned varieties. It’s surprisingly simple to make and ready in just 35 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful and Creamy: This soup is packed with the earthy flavors of mushrooms, enhanced by a simple blend of herbs and a creamy base.
- Easy to Make: With basic ingredients and straightforward instructions, this soup is a breeze to prepare, even for beginner cooks.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a starter, a light lunch, or a comforting side dish for your favorite meals.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious cream of mushroom soup:
- Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the base of the soup.
- Onion: Diced, for flavor and texture.
- Mushrooms: Sliced, the star of the show! Use your favorite variety, such as white button mushrooms, cremini mushrooms, or even a mix of wild mushrooms.
- Vegetable broth: Adds flavor and moisture to the soup.
- Flour: Used to create a roux to thicken the soup.
- Fresh thyme: Adds a subtle earthy and slightly minty flavor.
- Milk or heavy cream: Creates a creamy texture. Use milk for a lighter version or heavy cream for a richer soup.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish and a touch of freshness.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How to Make Easy Cream of Mushroom Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the butter and melt it. Add the diced onions and sauté until tender, stirring occasionally. Add the sliced mushrooms and continue sautéing until tender, stirring as needed.
Step 2: Deglaze and Add Thyme
Add a splash of vegetable broth to the pot and scrape the bottom with a spoon or spatula to deglaze it, incorporating any browned bits. Stir in the fresh thyme and continue heating.
Step 3: Make the Roux and Thicken
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and the remaining vegetable broth until well combined and no lumps remain. Pour this mixture into the pot and bring to a boil, stirring as needed.
Step 4: Add Milk and Simmer
Stir in the milk (or heavy cream) and reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, or until the soup thickens to your liking, stirring frequently.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the soup warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: When sautéing the mushrooms, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will prevent them from browning properly. Cook them in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or milk. If it’s too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Add other flavors: Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or a bay leaf.
How to Serve Easy Cream of Mushroom Soup
- Starter: Serve this soup as a comforting and flavorful starter for a special occasion meal.
- Light Lunch: Enjoy it as a light lunch with a side salad or a sandwich.
- Side Dish: Pair it with your favorite main courses, such as grilled chicken, fish, or steak.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool the soup completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 90 days (or longer if vacuum sealed).
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of mushroom?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite variety of mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms.
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, you can use vegan butter and plant-based milk instead of dairy.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Sauté the vegetables separately, then add them to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
How can I make this soup thicker?
You can thicken the soup by simmering it uncovered for a longer time or by adding a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water).
There you have it! A simple, delicious, and versatile recipe for Easy Cream of Mushroom Soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
PrintEasy Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 cups 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Cream of Mushroom Soup is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for a cozy meal. Made with simple ingredients and ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a creamy and flavorful soup that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (about 4 cups)
- 2 cups vegetable broth, divided
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onions and sauté until tender. Add mushrooms and sauté until softened and lightly browned.
- Deglaze and Season: Add a splash of vegetable broth to the pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in thyme.
- Make Roux: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and the remaining vegetable broth until smooth.
- Thicken Soup: Pour the flour mixture into the pot and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the soup thickens to your liking.
- Add Milk/Cream: Stir in milk or heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Variations: See the full recipe post for ingredient substitutions and variations.
- Mushrooms: No need to rinse mushrooms; just brush off any excess dirt.
- Smooth Soup: Use an immersion blender for a smoother consistency.
- Umami: Add a splash of soy sauce for extra umami flavor.
- Thickness: Adjust thickness by adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) or more liquid (milk, cream, or broth).
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg