This Easy Cream of Mushroom Soup is a comforting and creamy classic made with fresh mushrooms and fragrant herbs. Perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving a warm bowl of homemade goodness, this soup is simple to prepare and full of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy: A velvety texture that’s comforting and satisfying.
- Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh produce.
- Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or use cream for a richer soup.
- Quick to prepare: Ready in just 35 minutes.
- Make-ahead friendly: Stores well for meal prep or freezing.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (about 4 cups)
- 2 cups vegetable broth, divided
- ¼ cup flour
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 1 cup milk, or heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat a 4-quart soup pot over medium-high heat. Add butter and melt.
- Sauté the diced onions until tender, stirring occasionally.
- Add sliced mushrooms and continue to sauté until tender and browned.
Step 2: Deglaze the Pot
- Pour a splash of vegetable broth into the pot to deglaze. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon.
- Stir in fresh thyme for added flavor.
Step 3: Make the Roux
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and remaining vegetable broth until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the pot, stirring constantly, and bring to a boil.
Step 4: Add Milk and Simmer
- Stir in milk or heavy cream. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the soup thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Step 6: Store
- Cool completely before storing. Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 90 days (or longer if vacuum-sealed).
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 cups
Variations
- Vegan option: Substitute butter with olive oil and use plant-based milk.
- Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu for a heartier soup.
- Boost flavor: Add a splash of white wine or sherry when deglazing the pot.
- Herb swap: Use rosemary, sage, or dill instead of thyme for a different flavor profile.
- Extra veggies: Add diced carrots or celery to the sautéed onions for more texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 90 days. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, or microwave in short intervals.
FAQs
Can I use canned mushrooms instead of fresh?
Fresh mushrooms are recommended for the best flavor and texture, but canned mushrooms can be used in a pinch.
What type of mushrooms work best?
Button, cremini, or baby Bella mushrooms are all great options.
Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, chicken broth adds a rich flavor if you’re not making a vegetarian soup.
How do I avoid lumps in the soup?
Whisk the flour and broth thoroughly before adding it to the pot, and stir constantly while it cooks.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, but add 15 minutes to the cooking time for larger batches.
How do I make the soup thicker?
Simmer longer to reduce the liquid, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
What pairs well with this soup?
Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Can I freeze the soup with milk or cream?
Yes, but the texture may slightly change. Stir well while reheating to restore creaminess.
Can I blend this soup?
For a smoother texture, blend part or all of the soup with an immersion blender or regular blender.
What can I use instead of parsley for garnish?
Chopped chives, green onions, or a drizzle of olive oil work well as alternatives.
Conclusion
This Easy Cream of Mushroom Soup is a quick and comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy evenings or a simple starter. With fresh mushrooms, buttery herbs, and a creamy base, it’s a classic recipe you’ll make again and again. Serve it warm with your favorite bread and enjoy the ultimate bowl of comfort!
PrintEasy Cream of Mushroom Soup
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 cups 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Cream of Mushroom Soup is rich, comforting, and packed with fresh mushrooms and herbs. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s the perfect cozy dish for a chilly day or as a starter to a hearty meal.
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/2 onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (about 4 cups)
- 2 cups vegetable broth, divided
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp fresh thyme
- 1 cup milk (or heavy cream)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat a 4-quart soup pot over medium-high heat. Melt the butter, then add the diced onion. Sauté until the onion is tender and translucent, stirring as needed.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and continue to sauté until they are tender and lightly browned.
- Deglaze the Pot:
- Pour a small splash of the vegetable broth into the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom to deglaze. Stir in the fresh thyme.
- Prepare the Roux:
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the remaining vegetable broth and flour until smooth and lump-free.
- Thicken the Soup:
- Pour the broth-flour mixture into the pot and bring to a boil, stirring frequently until the mixture starts to thicken.
- Add the Creamy Base:
- Stir in the milk (or heavy cream). Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired thickness, stirring occasionally.
- Season and Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.
Notes
- Doubling the Recipe: If doubling, add 15 minutes to the cooking time.
- Storage: Cool completely and refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 90 days. Use vacuum-sealing for longer storage.
- Customizations: For added depth, try adding a splash of white wine during the deglazing step or mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 190kcal
- Sodium: 587mg
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 5g
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