Creamy Mushroom Soup is a rich and velvety dish that highlights the earthy flavors of mushrooms, combined with a creamy base. This soup is perfect as a starter or a light meal, and it’s easy to make with just a few ingredients. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread, this soup is sure to warm your heart!

Ingredients List

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 16 ounces mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or a mix)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Timing

Preparing Creamy Mushroom Soup takes about 10 minutes for prep and 25 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 35 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat Butter and Oil: In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Mushrooms: Stir in the sliced mushrooms, cooking until they release their moisture and become tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Add Seasonings and Broth

1. Season: Add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot, stirring to combine.
2. Pour in Broth: Add the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

1. Blend: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup or use a regular blender in batches.
2. Return to Heat: Return the blended soup to the pot if using a regular blender.

Step 4: Add Cream and Finish

1. Stir in Cream: Add the heavy cream or half-and-half to the soup, stirring to combine. If desired, add lemon juice for brightness.
2. Heat Through: Allow the soup to heat on low until warmed through, about 5 minutes. Do not let it boil.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
2. Enjoy: Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Creamy Mushroom Soup (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	220
Protein	4g
Fat	18g
Carbohydrates	12g
Fiber	2g

Tips for Customization

• Mushroom Varieties: Use a mix of mushrooms like shiitake, portobello, or oyster for a more complex flavor.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or sage for different flavor profiles.
• Dairy Alternatives: For a lighter version, use milk or a dairy-free cream substitute.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Mushroom Soup pairs well with:

• Crusty bread or baguette for dipping.
• A simple green salad for a light meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Mushrooms: Be careful not to overcook the mushrooms; they should be tender but not mushy.
2. Not Blending Enough: Ensure you blend the soup well for a creamy texture; adjust blending based on your texture preference.
3. Boiling After Adding Cream: Avoid boiling the soup after adding cream to prevent curdling.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Creamy Mushroom Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. This soup also freezes well; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

Conclusion

In about 35 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious bowl of Creamy Mushroom Soup that is both comforting and satisfying. This easy recipe is perfect for any occasion and is sure to become a favorite in your home!

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the soup ahead of time and reheat it before serving. The flavors will deepen as it sits.

Can I use dried mushrooms instead of fresh?

Yes, but rehydrate them in warm water before use to ensure they’re tender.

What if I want a lighter soup?

You can use less cream or substitute with milk for a lighter version.

Can I customize the recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or adjust the seasonings to your taste.