This Creamy Mushroom Soup is rich, earthy, and deliciously smooth, with a blend of tender mushrooms, aromatic garlic, and onions. Perfect for chilly days, it’s easy to make and full of comforting flavors!
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb fresh mushrooms (button, cremini, or a mix), sliced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk (for added creaminess)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish (optional)
This simple ingredient list creates a deeply flavorful and creamy soup that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Cook the Mushrooms:
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and browned. This step enhances the mushroom flavor.
3. Add the Flour:
- Sprinkle 2 tbsp of flour over the mushrooms and stir to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flour to cook slightly and thicken the soup base.
4. Add the Broth:
- Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Blend and Add Cream:
- If you prefer a smooth soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until creamy. For a chunkier texture, only blend half of the soup.
- Stir in the heavy cream or milk and let it heat through for about 2-3 minutes.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.
Helpful Tips for the Best Creamy Mushroom Soup
- Use a Mix of Mushrooms: For a more complex flavor, use a mix of button, cremini, and shiitake mushrooms.
- Thicken with Flour: Flour helps thicken the soup for a smooth, creamy texture. For a gluten-free version, use cornstarch or skip the flour entirely.
- Blend to Desired Consistency: Blend the soup completely for a smooth texture or partially blend for a chunky, hearty soup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Mushroom Soup is a cozy, delicious option for lunch or dinner. With earthy mushrooms, creamy broth, and fragrant garlic and onion, it’s a warm and comforting meal that’s easy to make and sure to please.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
- Yes, milk will work, but the soup will be slightly less creamy. For a richer texture, use a mix of milk and cream.
2. How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
3. Can I freeze creamy mushroom soup?
- Yes, you can freeze it. Let the soup cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
4. Can I make this soup vegan?
- Yes! Use olive oil instead of butter, vegetable broth, and replace heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk.
5. What can I serve with mushroom soup?
- Serve with crusty bread, a side salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Creamy Mushroom Soup is the ultimate comfort food, with layers of savory flavor, a smooth texture, and a satisfying creaminess. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs, for a warm and delicious meal that’s perfect for any day of the week!