Cream of Mushroom Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm up with this creamy and savory Cream of Mushroom Soup recipe that’s perfect for chilly evenings or as a comforting side dish. Packed with the earthy richness of fresh mushrooms and herbs, this homemade soup is not only delicious but also easy to make. Whether served with crusty bread or as a base for your favorite casserole, it's a timeless classic that everyone will love.
This Cream of Mushroom Soup is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of mushrooms in a creamy broth. Ideal for cold weather, it's sure to warm you from the inside out.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture
- Earthy flavor from fresh mushrooms
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Perfect as a comforting side dish or main course
The Richness of Mushrooms
Mushrooms are the star of this Cream of Mushroom Soup, bringing an earthy flavor that is both comforting and satisfying. The variety of mushrooms you choose can elevate this dish even further; for instance, a mix of button, cremini, and shiitake mushrooms can add depth and complexity to the taste. When sautéed, their natural umami flavor intensifies, making the soup rich and savory.
Incorporating fresh mushrooms allows you to experience not just the taste but the aroma as well. The scent of sautéed mushrooms wafting through your kitchen is an invitation to enjoy a warm bowl of soup, making it an ideal choice for a cozy dinner or lunch. Explore different types of mushrooms to find your perfect blend.
Perfect Pairings
This Cream of Mushroom Soup is incredibly versatile and can be paired with various dishes. A slice of warm, crusty bread complements the creamy texture beautifully, allowing you to soak up every last drop. It also serves as a fantastic base for casseroles, adding richness to ingredients like chicken or vegetables instead of a typical sauce.
For those looking to enhance their meal further, consider serving a fresh salad on the side. A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can cleanse the palate and balance the richness of the soup, making for a wholesome dining experience.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Ingredients
Ingredients for Cream of Mushroom Soup
- 1 lb fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth preparation process.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the Mushrooms
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook until they are browned and their moisture has evaporated, about 10 minutes.
Combine Broth and Cream
Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Once simmering, add the heavy cream and stir well to combine.
Season and Blend
Season with salt and pepper to taste. For a smoother texture, you can blend the soup with an immersion blender or in batches in a stand blender.
Serve
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm with crusty bread or as part of a casserole.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Cream of Mushroom Soup!
A Nutritional Boost
Mushrooms are not just flavorful but also packed with essential nutrients. They are low in calories and high in vitamins such as D and B, making them an excellent addition to a balanced diet. The combination of mushrooms and cream creates a nourishing dish that provides comfort without compromising health.
By using vegetable or chicken broth, you can adjust the nutritional profile to suit your dietary needs, whether vegetarian or omnivorous. This flexibility ensures that everyone can enjoy the rich flavors while benefiting from the vitamins and minerals found in fresh ingredients.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with this Cream of Mushroom Soup by adding your favorite ingredients. For an extra kick, consider incorporating some white wine or sherry during the sautéing process. This addition enhances the flavor while creating a more complex and aromatic soup.
Another delightful variation includes blending in some cooked potatoes for a heartier texture. You can also introduce different herbs like thyme or rosemary to complement the mushrooms further. Each variation can create a unique twist on the classic recipe, making it a dish you can enjoy in numerous ways.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use dried mushrooms instead of fresh?
Yes, but rehydrate them first in warm water before adding to the soup.
Cream of Mushroom Soup
Warm up with this creamy and savory Cream of Mushroom Soup recipe that’s perfect for chilly evenings or as a comforting side dish. Packed with the earthy richness of fresh mushrooms and herbs, this homemade soup is not only delicious but also easy to make. Whether served with crusty bread or as a base for your favorite casserole, it's a timeless classic that everyone will love.
Created by: Megan Douglas
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4.0
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Cream of Mushroom Soup
- 1 lb fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook until they are browned and their moisture has evaporated, about 10 minutes.
Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Once simmering, add the heavy cream and stir well to combine.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. For a smoother texture, you can blend the soup with an immersion blender or in batches in a stand blender.
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm with crusty bread or as part of a casserole.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10g