This Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a rich and hearty meal, perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and robust flavor, this soup stands out as a comforting dish that can be made in just one pot. It’s versatile enough for a cozy dinner at home or as a make-ahead option for busy weeknights or gatherings. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with some crusty bread for a satisfying experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires only simple steps and can be made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of fresh baby bella mushrooms and aromatic herbs creates a deep, savory taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as an appetizer, main course, or even as a base for other dishes like casseroles.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers in the freezer for quick meals later on.
- Comforting & Hearty: This soup is sure to warm you up on chilly days and provide comfort after a long day.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment not only simplifies the process but also enhances the final result of your cream of mushroom soup.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cooking spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
- Chopping board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Pot: A spacious pot allows you to sauté vegetables evenly and gives ample room for simmering the soup without spilling.
- Cooking Spoon: A sturdy spoon is crucial for stirring ingredients thoroughly and ensuring they cook evenly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect consistency and flavor in your soup.
Ingredients
This delicious and rich cream of mushroom soup is easy to make all in one pot and is so hearty and comforting. Perfect for make-ahead and freezer meals.
For the Soup Base
- 1.5 lbs baby bella mushrooms (sliced)
- 6 Tablespoon butter
- 6 Tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 yellow onion (chopped (about 1 cup))
- 1 celery stalk (chopped (about ½ cup))
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon marjoram
For the Broth
- 4 cups chicken broth
For Creaminess
- 1 cup heavy cream
Seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Butter
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and celery, sautéing until softened, about 4 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms
- Add sliced mushrooms along with thyme and marjoram.
- Stir for about 10-15 minutes until mushrooms have softened and reduced in volume.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture; stir for about 2 minutes to allow the flour to cook.
Step 3: Add Chicken Broth
- Stir in chicken broth.
- Simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until the mixture has reduced.
Step 4: Incorporate Heavy Cream
- Reduce heat to low.
- Stir in heavy cream, allowing it to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper.
Enjoy this creamy delight!
How to Serve Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe
Cream of mushroom soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want it as a starter or a main course, here are some delightful serving suggestions.
With Crusty Bread
- Pair this soup with a warm, crusty baguette for dipping. The bread complements the creamy texture beautifully.
Over Rice
- Serve the cream of mushroom soup over steamed rice for a hearty meal. The rice absorbs the flavors and makes for a filling option.
As a Sauce
- Use this soup as a sauce over grilled chicken or fish. Its rich flavor enhances the protein, making it an elegant dish.
With Fresh Herbs
- Garnish your bowl with fresh parsley or chives. This adds color and a burst of flavor to each spoonful.
In a Bread Bowl
- For a fun presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This adds an interactive element to your meal.
Topped with Cheese
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top before serving. A melting layer of cheese creates an indulgent finish.
How to Perfect Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe
Making the perfect cream of mushroom soup is easy with these helpful tips.
- Use fresh mushrooms: Fresh baby bella mushrooms provide the best flavor and texture compared to canned varieties.
- Don’t rush the sautéing: Allow the onions and celery to soften fully before adding mushrooms; this enhances the overall taste.
- Adjust thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, add more flour during cooking or reduce the broth further.
- Experiment with herbs: Feel free to try other herbs like rosemary or basil for unique flavor variations.
- Blend for smoothness: For a velvety texture, use an immersion blender after cooking to puree part of the soup.
- Taste as you go: Always adjust seasoning towards the end; this ensures your cream of mushroom soup is perfectly seasoned.
Best Side Dishes for Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe
A delicious bowl of cream of mushroom soup pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some fantastic options to complement your meal.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up every last drop of soup.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic combo offers comfort food at its finest, with gooey cheese and crisp bread.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your table.
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, creamy soup.
- Potato Chips: For crunch, serve some kettle-cooked potato chips on the side; they offer great texture against the creamy soup.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed mushrooms can echo the flavors in your cream of mushroom soup while providing extra bite-sized treats.
- Quiche: A slice of quiche makes for an elegant pairing that enhances any meal setting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making cream of mushroom soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
- Flavoring: Skipping herbs can lead to bland soup. Always include seasonings like thyme and marjoram to enhance the flavor.
- Cooking Time: Overcooking mushrooms can make them rubbery. Cook them just until they soften and reduce in volume for the best texture.
- Flour Usage: Adding flour too quickly can create lumps. Make sure to sprinkle it evenly and stir for a couple of minutes before adding broth.
- Temperature Control: Simmering on high heat can cause the cream to separate. Always reduce heat when adding heavy cream for a smooth finish.
- Storage Practices: Not storing properly can spoil the leftovers. Ensure you use airtight containers and label them with dates.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Cream of mushroom soup lasts up to 3–4 days when refrigerated.
Freezing Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- This soup can be frozen for up to 2–3 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot and heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the cream of mushroom soup recipe.
How do I make my cream of mushroom soup richer?
Adding more heavy cream or using a combination of broth and stock will enhance the richness of your soup.
Can I use different types of mushrooms in this cream of mushroom soup recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other mushrooms like shiitake or portobello for varied flavors.
What should I serve with cream of mushroom soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How long does this cream of mushroom soup recipe last in the freezer?
It can last up to 2–3 months if stored properly in freezer-safe containers.
Final Thoughts
This cream of mushroom soup recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding proteins or extra vegetables based on your preferences. Give it a try and enjoy a warm bowl that’s perfect for any occasion!
Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe. This creamy and rich soup is a delightful blend of fresh baby bella mushrooms, aromatic herbs, and a touch of heavy cream, creating a warm and hearty dish perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights. With just one pot needed for preparation, this recipe is not only easy to follow but also makes cleanup a breeze. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal. Whether as an appetizer or a main course, this versatile soup is sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs baby bella mushrooms, sliced
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon marjoram
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and celery; sauté until softened (about 4 minutes).
- Stir in sliced mushrooms along with thyme and marjoram; cook for 10-15 minutes until mushrooms are tender.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture; stir for about 2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth; simmer for 10-15 minutes until reduced.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream; simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
