Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe

This Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe is a delightful blend of earthy flavors and creamy textures, perfect for cozy dinners or as a starter for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare in one pot, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prep. The rich taste and comforting warmth will surely impress your family and friends, whether served on its own or paired with crusty bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This soup can be ready in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for a last-minute meal.
• One-Pot Wonder: Easy cleanup means you can spend more time enjoying your delicious soup and less time washing dishes.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy it as a main dish, side, or even as a base for casseroles and sauces.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for future meals without losing flavor.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Fresh mushrooms and herbs create a rich taste that elevates this soup above canned varieties.

Tools and Preparation

To make this cream of mushroom soup recipe, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A sturdy pot allows even heat distribution, ensuring your ingredients cook uniformly.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, helping you prepare the ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

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))

For Flavoring

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon marjoram

For Creaminess

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and celery and sauté until softened, about 4 minutes.

Step 2: Cook Mushrooms

Add sliced mushrooms, thyme, and marjoram to the pot. Stir the mixture for about 10-15 minutes until mushrooms have softened and reduced in volume.

Step 3: Add Flour

Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture. Stir for about 2 minutes to allow the flour to cook slightly.

Step 4: Incorporate Broth

Stir in chicken broth gradually while simmering over medium heat. Let the mixture simmer for approximately 10-15 minutes until it has reduced.

Step 5: Finish with Cream

Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, allowing the mixture to simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper before serving.

Enjoy this comforting cream of mushroom soup recipe warm on its own or with your favorite bread!

How to Serve Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe

Cream of mushroom soup is versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re having it as a main dish or alongside other meals, these suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: The tangy flavor of sourdough pairs perfectly with the creamy texture.
• Garlic Bread: Adds a savory punch that complements the earthiness of the mushrooms.

As a Base for Other Dishes

• Over Rice: Pour the soup over cooked rice for a hearty meal that soaks up the flavors.
• In Casseroles: Use as a creamy base in your favorite casseroles for added richness.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Adds freshness and bright color to your bowl.
• Thyme Sprigs: Enhance the herbal notes of your soup with this simple garnish.

With Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine and crunch from croutons provide a lovely contrast.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad balances the richness of the soup nicely.

How to Perfect Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe

Creating the perfect cream of mushroom soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your recipe.

• Use Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh baby bella mushrooms provide better flavor and texture than canned.
• Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Allow onions and celery to soften fully for a deeper flavor base.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go to achieve your preferred level of salt and pepper.
• Simmer Gently: Slow simmering helps meld the flavors together beautifully without burning anything.
• Blend for Smoothness: For an ultra-creamy texture, blend part or all of the soup before serving.
• Experiment with Spices: Try adding nutmeg or garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with cream of mushroom soup can round out your meal effectively. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This classic comfort food makes a perfect dipper for the soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies add color and nutrition to your meal.
3. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy potatoes topped with butter complement the creamy soup wonderfully.
4. Quiche Lorraine: A slice of quiche adds protein and makes for a filling meal.
5. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with grains, beans, or meat for an exciting twist.
6. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad provides a refreshing contrast to hot soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making cream of mushroom soup is simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong mushrooms: Not all mushrooms have the same flavor. Stick to baby bella or cremini for the best results.
• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing vegetables enhances their flavors. Don’t rush this step; it makes a big difference in taste.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoned soup can taste bland. Always adjust your salt and pepper at the end for a balanced flavor.
• Adding cream too early: Adding heavy cream too soon can cause it to curdle. Wait until after simmering to ensure a smooth texture.
• Overcooking the soup: Cooking too long can make mushrooms mushy. Keep an eye on cooking times for the best texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally. Start with 2 minutes, then heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium-low heat, stirring frequently. This method helps maintain texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a cream of mushroom soup recipe.

What is a Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe?

A cream of mushroom soup recipe is a comforting dish made with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and celery, thickened with flour and enriched with heavy cream.

Can I use different types of mushrooms in my Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with different mushrooms like shiitake or portobello, but baby bella offers the best flavor profile for this recipe.

How can I make my Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe healthier?

Try using low-fat milk instead of heavy cream or add more vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrients.

Can I make this Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter and use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream.

Final Thoughts

This cream of mushroom soup recipe is not only rich and creamy but also versatile and comforting. It’s perfect for meal prep and freezing, making it an excellent choice for busy days. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables. Give it a try, and enjoy the warmth it brings!