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This Cream of Mushroom Soup stands out for its rich, earthy flavors and luxurious creamy texture, making it a comforting favorite year-round.
Packed with a variety of mushrooms, it offers a wonderful depth of umami while being naturally low in carbs and calories.
Using extra virgin olive oil and butter ensures a blend of healthy fats, contributing to heart health and satiety.
With the option to use vegetable stock, this recipe can easily accommodate vegetarians.
Mushrooms bring plant-based protein and fiber to the table, supporting digestion and boosting overall nutrition.
Its quick preparation and straightforward steps make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping in advance.
Plus, omitting cream during freezing means you can enjoy fresh-tasting soup anytime with minimal effort.
Overall, this soup balances nutrition and flavor beautifully, satisfying both health-conscious eaters and comfort food lovers alike.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Heavy-Bottomed Pot
Essential for even heat distribution, this pot ensures mushrooms brown properly without scorching. It’s versatile for soups, stews, and sauces, making it a kitchen staple.
Immersion Blender
Perfect for pureeing soups directly in the pot, saving time and minimizing cleanup. It’s a handy tool for smoothies, sauces, and baby food too.
Sharp Chef’s Knife
Precise chopping of mushrooms, shallots, and garlic is crucial for flavor and texture. A quality chef’s knife speeds prep and improves safety in any kitchen.
Measuring Cups & Spoons
Accurate measurement of ingredients like stock, cream, and seasonings ensures consistent taste every time. These are indispensable for any recipe, sweet or savory.
Mixing Bowl
Useful for holding prepped ingredients or reserved mushrooms, it helps organize the cooking process and keeps the kitchen tidy.
Hearty Cream of Mushroom Soup
Equipment
- 1 Heavy-bottomed pot (5 to 6 quart)
- 1 Immersion blender (or standing blender)
- 1 Sharp chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 1 Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 pounds cremini or button mushrooms cleaned and sliced
- Small handful shiitake mushrooms chopped
- ¾ cup minced shallots about 6 ounces
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ teaspoon dried tarragon
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preparing the Mushrooms: Begin by thoroughly cleaning your mushrooms. Use a damp paper towel or a soft brush to gently remove any dirt or debris from the cremini (or button) mushrooms and shiitake mushrooms.Avoid washing mushrooms under running water as they can absorb excess moisture, which affects their texture when cooking. Once cleaned, slice the cremini mushrooms into thin, even pieces about 1/8-inch thick to ensure they cook evenly. Chop the shiitake mushrooms into smaller pieces to match the size of the cremini slices for a consistent texture in your soup.
- Heating the Fat Base: Place a large, heavy-bottomed pot (about 5 to 6 quarts) on your stovetop over medium-high heat. Add 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and swirl it around the bottom of the pot to coat evenly. Follow by adding 4 tablespoons of butter. Allow the butter to melt completely, stirring occasionally to combine it with the olive oil. This mixture of fats creates a rich and flavorful base that will enhance the taste of your mushrooms while preventing them from sticking to the pot.
- Sautéing the Mushrooms: Once the butter has melted and the fat is hot but not smoking, add all the sliced cremini and chopped shiitake mushrooms to the pot. Stir the mushrooms gently to coat them thoroughly with the olive oil and butter mixture. Increase the heat slightly to maintain medium-high and cook the mushrooms without overcrowding the pot; this allows them to brown properly rather than steam. Continue to sauté, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes or until the mushrooms have turned golden brown and released most of their moisture. This browning develops deep, complex flavors essential for a rich soup.
- Reserving Mushrooms for Texture: After the mushrooms have cooked and released their liquid, carefully remove about 1 cup of the sautéed mushrooms from the pot and place them into a mixing bowl. These reserved mushrooms will be stirred back into the soup at the end to add delightful texture and a burst of mushroom flavor to the creamy base.
- Adding Aromatics – Shallots and Garlic: Reduce the heat to medium to prevent burning delicate aromatics. Add the minced shallots and garlic cloves to the pot with the remaining mushrooms.Stir them together thoroughly, allowing the shallots and garlic to coat in the buttery mushroom juices. Cook for approximately one minute, stirring constantly, until the shallots become translucent and fragrant, and the garlic releases its aroma. This step builds layers of flavor in your soup.
- Seasoning and Simmering: Next, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 3/4 teaspoon of dried tarragon. Stir to combine and evenly distribute the seasonings throughout the mixture. Pour in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable stock, depending on your preference. Increase the heat back to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook uncovered for about 10 minutes. This simmering time lets the flavors meld and the liquid reduce slightly, concentrating the taste.
- Pureeing the Soup: After simmering, remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, carefully puree the soup directly in the pot until it reaches a smooth, velvety consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer the soup in batches to a standing blender, and puree until smooth, then return it to the pot.If the soup appears too thick for your liking, gradually add a little water or additional stock until you reach your preferred texture. This creamy base is key to the classic texture of the soup.
- Incorporating Cream and Reserved Mushrooms: Place the pot back on low heat. Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup of heavy cream to add richness and a silky mouthfeel. Stir thoroughly to blend the cream evenly throughout the soup. Then, add the reserved cooked mushrooms back into the pot, stirring gently to distribute them evenly. These mushrooms add a pleasant bite and visual appeal. Finally, season with 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, tasting and adjusting the salt and pepper as needed for perfect balance.
- Serving and Enjoying: Once the soup is heated through and well seasoned, ladle it into warm bowls. This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a comforting meal. Serve immediately to enjoy its full, fresh flavors. If you plan to freeze leftovers, remember to omit the cream until reheating to preserve texture and freshness.
Notes
- Use a mix of mushrooms for depth of flavor.
- Avoid washing mushrooms under running water; clean gently instead.
- Reserve some cooked mushrooms for texture contrast in the final soup.
- Do not add cream before freezing; add it fresh when reheating.
- Adjust soup thickness with stock or water as needed.
- Use an immersion blender for quick, safe pureeing.
- Freshly ground black pepper brightens the flavor at the end.
Chef’s Secrets for Exceptional Soup
Achieving a truly flavorful cream of mushroom soup starts with how you handle the mushrooms.
Sautéing them over medium-high heat without overcrowding is essential — this encourages browning and intensifies their natural umami notes.
Don’t rush this step; patience here develops depth that sets this soup apart.
Also, reserving a portion of sautéed mushrooms to add back into the finished soup creates a pleasing contrast of texture and richness.
For the best silky smoothness, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to purée the soup, which saves time and keeps cleanup minimal.
Finally, always add the cream just before serving or reheating to keep its velvety texture intact and prevent separation.
Serving Suggestions to Impress Everyone
This soup is delightfully versatile and pairs beautifully with many sides.
Serve it alongside a crusty artisan bread or garlic baguette to soak up the creamy broth.
For a light meal, accompany it with a crisp green salad dressed in tangy vinaigrette to balance the soup’s richness.
It also makes a wonderful starter for dinner parties, especially when garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley.
For a heartier option, add a swirl of pesto or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for crunch.
This soup can be enjoyed on its own or elevated with a splash of white wine or truffle oil for special occasions.
Storage Tips for Best Freshness
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you plan to freeze, do so before adding the cream, as dairy can separate when thawed and reheated.
Freeze in portion-sized containers for easy defrosting and quick meals.
When reheating frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stove, stirring frequently.
Whisk in the cream only after the soup is fully heated to maintain its smooth texture.
Avoid boiling once cream is added to prevent curdling.
Label containers with dates to keep track of freshness and enjoy the soup within 1 to 2 months for best flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Soup
1. Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes! Simply use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock and substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative. For creaminess, coconut cream or cashew cream works well.
2. What mushrooms work best for this recipe?
Cremini, button, and shiitake mushrooms are excellent choices due to their robust flavor. Mixing varieties adds complexity, but you can use just one type if needed.
3. Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Cook the soup up to the pureeing stage, then cool and freeze without cream. When ready to eat, thaw, reheat, and stir in the cream fresh.
4. How do I prevent the soup from being too thick or thin?
Adjust the soup’s consistency by adding additional stock or water after blending until it reaches your desired thickness.
5. Can I use dried mushrooms?
Dried mushrooms can be used but should be rehydrated in warm water first. This adds an extra layer of flavor but may require adjusting the liquid amounts.
This recipe is inspired by simplyrecipes and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.
