Cream of Mushroom Soup

A warm bowl of Cream of Mushroom Soup is perfect for any occasion, whether as a comforting starter or a standalone dish. This recipe combines the rich flavors of cremini mushrooms, fresh herbs, and creamy goodness to deliver a satisfying experience. It’s an easy-to-make classic that impresses guests while being simple enough for a weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this soup comes together in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sautéed onions and mushrooms creates a deep, savory taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a starter, main course, or even use it as a base for casseroles and pasta dishes.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome elements like mushrooms and herbs, this soup is not just delicious but also nutritious.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite seasonings or toppings—like croutons or fresh parsley—to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to streamline your process. Having the right equipment can help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch Oven or heavy pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch Oven or heavy pot: Ideal for even heat distribution, ensuring that your ingredients cook perfectly without burning.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware, allowing you to mix ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

A flavorful homemade cream of mushroom soup made with onions, cremini mushrooms, garlic, fresh thyme, and whipping cream.

Main Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
• 1 ½ lbs cremini mushrooms
• 3 cloves garlic minced

Thickening Agent

• ¼ cup flour
• 4 cups chicken (or vegetable broth/low sodium vegetable stock)

Seasoning Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
• ½ teaspoon seasoned salt
• ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

Creamy Element

• ¾ cup heavy whipping cream

How to Make Cream of Mushroom Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Melt the butter and heat the olive oil in a Dutch Oven or heavy pot over medium heat. Add the onions and mushrooms.
– Sauté until the onions are soft and the mushrooms are browned.
– Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the garlic; cook for 1 minute while stirring.

Step 2: Create the Base

Stir in the flour and continue cooking for 2 minutes while stirring.
– Slowly stir in the chicken broth until smooth and creamy.
– Add fresh thyme, dried marjoram, seasoned salt, and black pepper.
– Cook over medium-low heat until thickened.

Step 3: Add Cream

Turn the heat as low as it will go and stir in the cream.
– Season with more salt and black pepper to taste if desired.

Step 4: Garnish & Serve

If desired, garnish with croutons, sour cream, fresh thyme, or chopped fresh parsley before serving.

This delightful Cream of Mushroom Soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen! Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting dish.

How to Serve Cream of Mushroom Soup

Cream of mushroom soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or a main course, these suggestions will help elevate your dining experience.

With Croutons

• Add crispy croutons on top for extra texture and crunch.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped fresh thyme or parsley to enhance the flavor and presentation.

As a Sauce

• Use cream of mushroom soup as a sauce over chicken or pasta for a rich, creamy addition.

In a Bread Bowl

• Serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a fun and edible serving suggestion.

Paired with Salad

• A light green salad complements the richness of the soup perfectly.

With Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

• Pair your soup with classic grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal.

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How to Perfect Cream of Mushroom Soup

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your cream of mushroom soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh mushrooms: Fresh cremini mushrooms provide better flavor than canned varieties.
• Cook slowly: Sauté the onions and mushrooms on medium heat to develop their natural sweetness.
• Add seasonings gradually: Introduce herbs and spices step by step for balanced flavors.
• Blend for smoothness: For an ultra-creamy texture, blend part or all of the soup before adding cream.
• Adjust creaminess: Modify the amount of heavy whipping cream based on your desired richness.
• Taste frequently: Regularly taste as you cook to ensure seasoning is just right.

Best Side Dishes for Cream of Mushroom Soup

Cream of mushroom soup pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
2. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness alongside the rich flavors.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and nutrition to your meal.
4. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits with cheese make for a delightful pairing.
5. Quiche Lorraine: This savory quiche is hearty enough to complement the soup well.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers add substance to your dining experience.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch next to creamy soup.
8. Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad brings balance with its tangy dressing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making cream of mushroom soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin it. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the sauté step: Skipping the sautéing of onions and mushrooms can lead to a lack of flavor. Always take the time to brown these ingredients to enhance the soup’s taste.
• Using low-quality mushrooms: Using poor-quality mushrooms can affect the overall flavor. Opt for fresh cremini or button mushrooms for the best results.
• Overcooking the garlic: Garlic can turn bitter if overcooked. Add it towards the end of your sautéing process for a mild yet aromatic flavor.
• Not seasoning enough: Proper seasoning is key to a great soup. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Rushing the thickening process: If you rush this step, you may end up with a soupy consistency. Allow enough time for the soup to thicken before adding cream.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Cream of Mushroom Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Cream of Mushroom Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat in a covered oven-safe dish for about 25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making cream of mushroom soup.

How do you make cream of mushroom soup from scratch?

To make cream of mushroom soup from scratch, sauté onions and mushrooms, then add garlic and flour. Gradually stir in broth and seasonings before adding cream.

What is the best type of mushrooms for cream of mushroom soup?

Cremini mushrooms are ideal due to their rich flavor. However, button mushrooms also work well if you prefer a milder taste.

Can I make cream of mushroom soup vegan?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegan version.

How long does homemade cream of mushroom soup last?

Homemade cream of mushroom soup lasts about 4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months when frozen.

Final Thoughts

Cream of mushroom soup is not just comforting; it’s versatile too! You can customize it by adding different herbs or vegetables based on your taste. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread, this creamy delight is sure to please everyone at your table. Try making it today!