Easy Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe: A Simple, Delicious, and Crowd-Pleasing Dish
This easy cream of mushroom soup recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend brunch. It's simple, delicious, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. This recipe is also highly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe requires minimal ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry!
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (cremini, button, or a mix work great!)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional, but adds a lovely aroma)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread or crackers (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps for a perfectly creamy and flavorful soup:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. This step builds a wonderful base flavor for your soup.
Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pot; you might need to do this in batches if necessary. Tip: Don't be afraid to let the mushrooms brown slightly; this adds depth of flavor.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Blend for Creamy Texture (Optional)
- If you prefer a smoother soup, carefully transfer the mixture to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth. Caution: When blending hot liquids, vent the lid to prevent pressure buildup.
Step 5: Finish the Soup
- Return the soup to the pot (if blended) and stir in the heavy cream, salt, pepper, and thyme (if using).
- Heat through gently; do not boil. Boiling can cause the cream to separate.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use a combination of mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms.
- Add some spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick.
- Make it cheesy: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded Gruyère or Parmesan cheese at the end.
- Boost the vegetables: Add a cup of chopped carrots or celery along with the onions.
- Make it ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated. It often tastes even better the next day!
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This easy cream of mushroom soup recipe is sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy!
