If you are on the hunt for something cozy, comforting, and bursting with earthy flavors, look no further than my Best Mushroom Soup with Fresh Cremini Mushrooms Recipe. This soup is a creamy, rich, and deeply savory bowl of goodness that highlights the delicate yet robust taste of fresh cremini mushrooms. It’s that perfect comfort food to warm you up, whether you’re craving a light lunch or a lovely starter for dinner with friends. Plus, the combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and cream transforms simple ingredients into a luscious and soul-satisfying experience you’ll want to savor over and over.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s beautiful about this soup is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one plays a vital role in creating the depth of flavor and smooth texture that defines the Best Mushroom Soup with Fresh Cremini Mushrooms Recipe. From the fresh mushrooms to the rich cream, every element contributes to the magic in your bowl.
- 1 lb fresh cremini mushrooms: These provide the earthy flavor and hearty texture that makes the soup shine.
- 3 tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps soften the onions and mushrooms.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Builds a sweet and savory base for the soup.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Gives a wonderful aromatic punch that wakes up the flavor.
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 tsp fresh): Infuses a subtle herbal note that complements mushroom’s natural earthiness.
- 1 tsp dried rosemary (or 2 tsp fresh): Adds a slightly piney, woodsy flavor to deepen the complexity.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Thickens the soup for a luscious, velvety texture.
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth: Provides the liquid body and depth of flavor to the soup.
- 3/4 cup heavy cream: Brings creaminess and richness without overpowering the mushrooms.
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste): Enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a touch of warmth and spice for balance.
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley or rosemary for garnish: Adds a fresh, herbal finish to the presentation.
- Optional: toasted bread or garlic croutons for serving: Perfect for dipping and adding texture contrast.
How to Make Best Mushroom Soup with Fresh Cremini Mushrooms Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced yellow onions and cook them gently until they’re soft and translucent, about four to five minutes. This step creates a flavorful base that’s both sweet and aromatic. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook it just for 30 seconds—the moment it becomes fragrant, you know it’s time to move on to the mushrooms.
Step 2: Cook the Cremini Mushrooms
Add your fresh, sliced cremini mushrooms to the pot. Sauté them for about eight to ten minutes until they’ve released their moisture, turned beautifully browned, and become tender. This transformation is where the soup gains much of its depth, as the mushrooms caramelizing add a rich, savory note that’s absolutely irresistible.
Step 3: Add Herbs and Seasonings
Time to layer in flavor with dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Stir these herbs into the mushroom mixture and let them mingle for a minute or two. This step brings out the woodsy, herbal aroma that complements the cremini mushrooms perfectly—each spoonful will remind you why this is the Best Mushroom Soup with Fresh Cremini Mushrooms Recipe.
Step 4: Incorporate Flour to Thicken
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the vegetables and mushrooms, stirring continuously for about a minute. This coats everything, acting as a thickening agent for the broth that’s coming next. It’s a small but crucial step to achieve that dreamy, velvety soup consistency.
Step 5: Pour in Broth and Simmer
Slowly add the vegetable or chicken broth while stirring to scrape up any browned bits on the bottom of the pot—this deglazing brings extra flavor into your soup. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken naturally.
Step 6: Blend for Texture
Here’s where you make the soup just the way you like it! Use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup for a smooth, creamy texture. Alternatively, leave it chunky for a rustic, hearty feel. This flexibility is one of the joys of the Best Mushroom Soup with Fresh Cremini Mushrooms Recipe—it’s all about your personal taste.
Step 7: Add Cream and Final Simmer
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let the soup simmer for another two to three minutes to combine everything beautifully. The cream softens the flavors and makes the soup decadently rich without overwhelming the fresh mushrooms.
Step 8: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Before serving, taste your soup and add more salt or pepper if needed. This final step lets you customize the seasoning to your exact preference, ensuring every spoonful is perfectly balanced.
How to Serve Best Mushroom Soup with Fresh Cremini Mushrooms Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing adds both visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or rosemary on top for a bright pop of color and fresh herbal aroma. A drizzle of cream or a few drops of high-quality olive oil can also add an elegant touch.
Side Dishes
Pair this soup with toasted bread, garlic croutons, or a crusty baguette to add texture and soak up the creamy goodness. A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables make great complementary sides if you want to flesh out the meal further and keep it balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving the soup in rustic mugs for a cozy vibe or in pretty bowls with a swirl of cream and a sprig of herbs. For a fun twist, top with sautéed mushroom slices or crispy shallots that add an additional crunch and elevate the experience of your Best Mushroom Soup with Fresh Cremini Mushrooms Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, so leftovers often taste even better!
Freezing
This soup freezes well, just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking and to bring the soup back to a creamy, smooth consistency. You may want to add a splash of broth or cream while reheating if the soup has thickened too much.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mushrooms instead of cremini?
Absolutely! While cremini mushrooms offer a lovely balance of earthiness and firmness, you can mix in shiitake, portobello, or button mushrooms. Just keep in mind that each variety will slightly alter the flavor and texture of the soup.
Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it definitely can be! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it completely vegetarian while still packed with flavor.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, swap the butter for olive oil or a plant-based margarine, and replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative of your choice. The soup will remain delicious and creamy!
Can I prepare this soup in advance for guests?
You can make the soup a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Gently reheat before serving and add any fresh garnishes at the last minute to keep them vibrant and fresh.
What can I do with the leftover mushroom soup?
Leftovers can be reheated for a quick meal, used as a flavorful base for casseroles, or even thickened and served over roasted vegetables as a sauce. The possibilities are endless with the rich flavors of this soup.
Final Thoughts
Sharing this Best Mushroom Soup with Fresh Cremini Mushrooms Recipe with you feels like passing along a treasured secret to a friend. It’s easy to make, deeply satisfying, and perfect for any occasion when comfort food is calling your name. I can’t wait for you to try this cozy, creamy, and wonderfully earthy mushroom soup—it just might become your new go-to recipe for chilly evenings and special gatherings alike.
Print
Best Mushroom Soup with Fresh Cremini Mushrooms Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This best mushroom soup recipe features fresh cremini mushrooms sautéed to perfection with aromatic herbs, onions, and garlic, then simmered in a flavorful broth and finished with creamy heavy cream. It’s a comforting, hearty soup perfect for cozy meals, offering a smooth or rustic texture depending on your blending preference. Garnished with fresh herbs and served with toasted bread or garlic croutons, this soup is an ideal starter or light meal for mushroom lovers.
Ingredients
Mushrooms and Vegetables
- 1 lb fresh cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 tsp fresh thyme)
- 1 tsp dried rosemary (or 2 tsp fresh rosemary)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
Optional Garnishes and Serving
- Chopped fresh parsley or rosemary for garnish
- Toasted bread or garlic croutons for serving
Instructions
- Sauté the Onion: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent, creating a flavorful base for the soup.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cook Mushrooms: Add the sliced cremini mushrooms to the pot and sauté for 8–10 minutes until they are browned and tender, releasing their natural juices and deepening the flavor.
- Incorporate Herbs and Seasoning: Sprinkle in the thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and cook for 1–2 minutes to allow the herbs to infuse the mushroom mixture.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir continuously for 1 minute to coat the ingredients evenly; this helps thicken the soup later.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Slowly pour in the vegetable or chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze and lift any flavorful bits. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes to develop the flavors and thicken the base.
- Blend Soup (Optional): For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup; leave it chunky if you prefer a rustic consistency.
- Add Cream and Finish Cooking: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let the soup simmer gently for 2–3 more minutes to combine the flavors and heat through without boiling.
- Adjust Seasonings and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Serve the hot soup garnished with chopped fresh herbs and accompanied by toasted bread or garlic croutons if desired.
Notes
- You can use either vegetable or chicken broth depending on your preference or dietary needs.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil and heavy cream with coconut cream or another plant-based cream alternative.
- Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried; just double the quantity for stronger flavor.
- Adjust the amount of cream or omit it for a lighter soup.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid curdling the cream.
