There’s something deeply soothing about a warm bowl of creamy mushroom soup on a chilly day.
It reminds me of cozy weekends at home, with the smell of garlic and thyme wafting through the kitchen.
Every spoonful is velvety, earthy, and comforting in a way only homemade soup can be.
Why I Love This Recipe
Creamy, earthy flavor – Mushrooms and thyme create deep, satisfying umami.
Easy to make – One pot and pantry-friendly ingredients.
Versatile texture – Blend it smooth or keep it chunky.
Restaurant-worthy – Feels gourmet with minimal effort.
Perfect for all seasons – Light enough for spring, cozy enough for winter.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Butter & olive oil – Classic base for flavor and richness.
Onion & garlic – Build a flavorful foundation.
Mushrooms – Cremini, button, or portobello all work well.
Thyme – Adds a fragrant, woodsy touch.
Vegetable or chicken broth – The savory backbone of the soup.
Heavy cream – Makes it luxurious and silky.
All-purpose flour (optional) – For a thicker, chowder-like consistency.
Fresh parsley – Adds color and brightness.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Slice mushrooms evenly – So they cook at the same rate.
Use fresh thyme – It makes a big difference in aroma.
Deglaze with wine – A splash of white wine or sherry adds depth.
Blend partially – Leave some mushroom chunks for texture.
Don’t skip the cream – It brings the whole soup together.
How to Make Creamy Mushroom Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Melt butter with olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add diced onion and cook until soft.
Stir in garlic and thyme, and sauté briefly.
Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms
Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until they release their moisture and brown, about 8–10 minutes.
Deglaze with white wine or sherry if using.
Step 3: Optional Thickening
For a thicker soup, sprinkle flour over the mushrooms.
Stir and cook 1–2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.
Step 4: Simmer the Broth
Pour in broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
Let it cook for 10–15 minutes so flavors can meld and the soup can reduce slightly.
Step 5: Blend (Optional)
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or leave some chunks if desired.
A regular blender in batches also works—just be careful with hot liquid.
Step 6: Stir in Cream
Add heavy cream (or half-and-half) and stir gently.
Let the soup warm through for a few minutes, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle into bowls, top with fresh parsley, and serve with warm crusty bread or parmesan on top.
What to Serve It With
A slice of crusty sourdough or garlic bread
Fresh green salad with vinaigrette
Grilled cheese or panini for a hearty pairing
Toasted baguette slices with olive tapenade
Variations / Substitutions
Make it dairy-free – Use coconut milk or oat cream.
Go vegan – Use veggie broth and plant-based cream.
Add grains – Stir in cooked farro or barley for texture.
Include more herbs – Rosemary or sage add a twist.
Use mixed mushrooms – Combine types for layered flavor.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge – Store in an airtight container up to 4 days.
Freeze – Cool completely and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat gently – Use stovetop or microwave; stir often.
Avoid boiling – High heat can cause cream to separate.
FAQs
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but it won’t be as rich. Use whole milk or add a bit of butter for texture.
Do I have to blend the soup?
Nope! You can leave it chunky or just blend half for a mixed texture.
What mushrooms are best?
Cremini, button, or portobello work great. Use a mix for extra depth.
Can I make this soup ahead?
Yes, it keeps well in the fridge and reheats beautifully.
Is wine necessary?
No, it’s optional, but a splash adds amazing depth.
Can I freeze it with cream?
Yes, but stir well after thawing. Cream might separate slightly.
What herbs go well besides thyme?
Parsley, rosemary, or a pinch of nutmeg also complement the flavors.
Final Thoughts
This creamy mushroom soup is one of those timeless recipes I keep coming back to.
It’s cozy, quick, and always delivers that homemade warmth we all crave.
Whether you serve it as a starter or a full meal, it’s guaranteed to please every mushroom lover at the table.
