Cozy Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe Perfect for Fall

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Imagine the earthy aroma of fresh mushrooms sizzling in butter, mingling with hints of garlic and thyme, as a creamy, velvety soup simmers on the stovetop. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a crisp fall evening. The first time I made this creamy mushroom soup, I remember sitting down with a bowl, steam swirling up like a cozy blanket for my senses. One spoonful in, I paused and smiled—this was comfort food at its finest.

Growing up, my grandma always had a pot of soup bubbling away on the stove during chilly autumn weekends. Her mushroom soup was a family favorite, and I’ve spent years trying to capture that rich, creamy flavor. This recipe is my labor of love, tested and tweaked until it became a staple in my kitchen. My family couldn’t stop sneaking spoonfuls before dinner (and honestly, neither could I). It’s the ultimate comfort food for a cozy night in or the centerpiece of a fall dinner party. You’re going to want to bookmark this one—it’s that good.

Why You’ll Love This Cozy Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this soup is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or impromptu family gatherings.
  • Simple Ingredients: No need for fancy or hard-to-find items—most of what you need is likely already in your pantry or fridge.
  • Perfect for Fall: With its warm, earthy flavors, this soup is made for chilly autumn evenings and cozy family meals.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s your kids, your partner, or your guests, everyone will be asking for seconds.
  • Rich and Creamy: The flavor and texture of this soup are smooth, comforting, and absolutely indulgent.

What makes this recipe special? It’s the balance of flavors—savory mushrooms, a touch of creaminess, and just the right amount of seasoning to make you feel like you’re dining in a fancy restaurant, minus the hefty bill. Plus, you can tweak it to fit your dietary needs or taste preferences. But the best part? It’s the kind of soup that makes you slow down and savor every bite. Whether you’re serving it with crusty bread or enjoying it on its own, this mushroom soup will have you coming back for more!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and a creamy, satisfying texture without the fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Butter: Use unsalted butter for sautéing the mushrooms and onions. (Adds richness and flavor.)
  • Olive Oil: A small splash to complement the butter and prevent it from burning.
  • Onion: One medium onion, finely chopped. (Adds sweetness and depth.)
  • Garlic: Two to three cloves, minced. (For that irresistible aroma.)
  • Mushrooms: 1 pound of mixed mushrooms—button, cremini, shiitake, or your favorites. (Cleaned and sliced.)
  • Vegetable Stock: 4 cups, preferably low-sodium. (You can also use chicken stock for extra flavor.)
  • Heavy Cream: 1 cup for that silky, creamy texture. (Use coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free option.)
  • Flour: 2 tablespoons for thickening the soup. (Use gluten-free flour if needed.)
  • Fresh Thyme: 2-3 sprigs or 1 teaspoon dried thyme. (For an earthy, herbal note.)
  • Bay Leaf: One leaf to infuse rich flavor.
  • Salt & Pepper: To taste. (Start with a pinch and adjust as needed.)
  • Optional Garnish: Chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
  • Crusty Bread: For serving. (Optional, but highly recommended!)

Equipment Needed

  • Large Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven works best for even cooking.
  • Cutting Board: To chop your onions, garlic, and mushrooms.
  • Sharp Knife: A good quality knife will make prepping the mushrooms a breeze.
  • Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.
  • Blender or Immersion Blender: To achieve that creamy consistency. (If you don’t have one, a food processor can work in a pinch.)
  • Ladle: For serving the soup.

If you don’t own an immersion blender, don’t worry! You can always transfer the soup to a countertop blender in batches. Just be careful not to overfill the blender—it can get messy. For those on a budget, affordable and durable immersion blenders can be found online or at most kitchen stores.

Preparation Method

creamy mushroom soup preparation steps

  1. Start by prepping your ingredients. Slice the mushrooms thinly, chop the onion, and mince the garlic. Set everything aside.
  2. Place your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the butter has melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  4. Throw in your sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know they’re ready when they’ve released their moisture and turned golden brown.
  5. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the sautéed mushrooms and stir well to coat. This will help thicken the soup later.
  6. Slowly pour in 4 cups of vegetable stock, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the fresh thyme and bay leaf, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  7. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes. The flavors will meld beautifully during this time.
  8. Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half the soup and leave some mushroom pieces intact.
  9. Gradually stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, and heat the soup gently for 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil, as the cream may separate.
  10. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a final stir and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  11. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or chives, and serve with crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to ensure your creamy mushroom soup turns out perfectly every time:

  • Choose the Right Mushrooms: While button mushrooms work well, a mix of cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms adds layers of flavor.
  • Clean Mushrooms Properly: Use a damp cloth to wipe off dirt instead of rinsing them under water, as mushrooms absorb moisture easily.
  • Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time to properly brown the mushrooms to bring out their natural umami flavor.
  • Blend Carefully: If using a countertop blender, blend the soup in small batches and hold the lid with a kitchen towel to avoid spills.
  • Prevent Cream from Curdling: Always add cream at the end and stir it in gently over low heat.

One mistake I made early on was not blending the soup enough—it ended up chunky instead of creamy. If you’re new to making creamy soups, take your time blending and taste as you go. Adjust the salt and pepper little by little to avoid over-seasoning.

Variations & Adaptations

This creamy mushroom soup is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

  • Gluten-Free: Swap the flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour for a celiac-friendly option.
  • Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a vegan alternative.
  • Seasonal Twist: In the spring, add fresh peas and asparagus; in winter, stir in roasted chestnuts for a festive flair.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for a subtle heat.
  • Protein Boost: Stir in shredded chicken or diced ham for a heartier soup.

Personally, I love adding a handful of sautéed spinach right at the end—it gives the soup a pop of color and an extra dose of nutrients. Feel free to experiment with your favorite veggies or herbs!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This cozy creamy mushroom soup is best served warm, right after it’s made. Pair it with a slice of crusty sourdough, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and maybe even a dollop of crème fraîche for a touch of luxury. If you’re hosting guests, serve it in rustic bowls with a side salad for a complete meal.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the cream from separating. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months—just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When reheating frozen soup, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it slowly.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This creamy mushroom soup is as nourishing as it is delicious. Here’s a quick breakdown of the benefits:

  • Calories: Approximately 200 calories per serving (depends on specific ingredients).
  • Protein: Mushrooms and cream provide a good dose of protein, making it filling and satisfying.
  • Low Carb: With minimal flour, this soup is perfect for anyone watching their carbs.
  • Rich in Antioxidants: Mushrooms are packed with antioxidants that support the immune system.
  • Vitamins: Loaded with vitamin D from mushrooms and B vitamins from the cream.

If you have dietary restrictions, this recipe can easily be adapted to suit your needs without sacrificing flavor. Just check your ingredient labels for allergens or substitutes.

Conclusion

There’s just something magical about this cozy creamy mushroom soup recipe. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out and makes any cool day feel a little brighter. Whether you’re customizing it with your favorite variations or sticking to the classic version, it’s sure to impress your family and friends.

FAQs

Can I use frozen mushrooms for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen mushrooms, but keep in mind they might release more water during cooking. Adjust the cooking time to ensure the soup doesn’t get too watery.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for 3 months. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.

Can I skip the cream to make it lighter?

You can! Replace the cream with a splash of milk or even a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk. It won’t be as rich, but it’ll still taste delicious.

What’s the best mushroom mix to use?

A combination of cremini, shiitake, and button mushrooms works beautifully. Feel free to add in some wild mushrooms for extra flavor.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes! Use olive oil instead of butter, coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream, and make sure your vegetable stock is vegan-friendly.

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Cozy Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe Perfect for Fall

A rich, creamy, and comforting mushroom soup that’s perfect for chilly autumn evenings and cozy family meals.

  • Author: paula
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Soup
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 23 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake, or your favorites), cleaned and sliced
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable stock (or chicken stock)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk/cashew cream for dairy-free option)
  • 2 tablespoons flour (or gluten-free flour)
  • 23 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional garnish: chopped parsley or chives
  • Crusty bread for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Slice the mushrooms thinly, chop the onion, and mince the garlic. Set everything aside.
  2. Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the butter has melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  4. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and turn golden brown.
  5. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the sautéed mushrooms and stir well to coat.
  6. Slowly pour in 4 cups of vegetable stock, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the fresh thyme and bay leaf, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  7. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes to meld the flavors.
  8. Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. For a chunkier texture, blend only half the soup and leave some mushroom pieces intact.
  9. Gradually stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and heat the soup gently for 2-3 minutes, being careful not to let it boil.
  10. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  11. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or chives, and serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Notes

[‘Choose a mix of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, and oyster for added flavor.’, ‘Use a damp cloth to clean mushrooms instead of rinsing them under water.’, ‘Take your time to properly brown the mushrooms for enhanced umami flavor.’, ‘Blend the soup carefully in small batches if using a countertop blender.’, ‘Add cream at the end and stir gently over low heat to prevent curdling.’]

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 200
  • Sugar: 4
  • Sodium: 400
  • Fat: 12
  • Saturated Fat: 7
  • Carbohydrates: 15
  • Fiber: 2
  • Protein: 5

Keywords: mushroom soup, creamy soup, fall recipe, comfort food, easy dinner, vegetarian soup, gluten-free soup

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