Few dishes deliver the same level of warmth and satisfaction as a bowl of creamy mushroom soup. Chef John's version of this classic is velvety smooth, rich in umami flavors, and incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just getting started, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
In this article, we’ll walk you through Chef John’s creamy mushroom soup recipe, share expert cooking tips, and answer frequently asked questions to help you master this comforting dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy – The perfect balance of smooth texture and deep, earthy mushroom flavor.
Easy to make – With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a gourmet soup at home.
Versatile – Can be served as a starter or a main dish with crusty bread.
Customizable – Easily tweak ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Chef John’s Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound fresh mushrooms (button, cremini, or a mix), sliced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
½ cup dry white wine (optional, but enhances flavor)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for added warmth)
Instructions:
Sauté the Mushrooms: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and begin to brown (about 7-10 minutes).
Add Aromatics: Stir in the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add thyme and cook for another minute.
Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the white wine, if using, and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 2 minutes until slightly reduced.
Thicken the Soup: Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to coat. Cook for another minute to remove the raw flour taste.
Add the Broth: Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Blend Until Smooth: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender, being careful with the hot liquid.
Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and nutmeg (if using). Let the soup warm through for another 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serve & Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or croutons.
Expert Tips for the Best Creamy Mushroom Soup
Use a mix of mushrooms – Combining button, cremini, and wild mushrooms adds more depth of flavor.
Don’t rush the browning process – Allowing mushrooms to caramelize enhances their natural umami.
Blend for extra creaminess – A smooth texture makes for a luxurious mouthfeel, but you can leave some mushroom chunks for a more rustic soup.
Adjust thickness – If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth. If too thin, let it simmer a bit longer.
Wine or no wine? – White wine enhances the taste, but you can skip it if preferred or substitute with a bit of lemon juice for acidity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even better the next day. Just reheat on low heat and stir well before serving.
2. Can I Freeze Creamy Mushroom Soup?
Cream-based soups don’t always freeze well, as the texture can change when reheated. If you plan to freeze it, do so before adding the cream, then add it in after reheating for the best consistency.
3. How Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the butter with plant-based margarine, use vegetable broth, and replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream.
4. What Can I Serve With This Soup?
Crusty bread or garlic toast
A side salad with a light vinaigrette
Grilled cheese sandwich
Roasted vegetables
5. How Do I Make This Soup Thicker?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, add a bit more flour when cooking the mushrooms or reduce the amount of broth slightly.
6. Can I Use Dried Mushrooms?
Yes! Dried mushrooms add an intense mushroom flavor. Simply soak them in warm water for 20 minutes, then chop and add to the soup along with fresh mushrooms. You can also use the soaking liquid as part of the broth.
Conclusion
Chef John’s Creamy Mushroom Soup is the ultimate comfort dish that’s simple, elegant, and packed with flavor. Whether enjoyed as a cozy meal on a chilly evening or served as a refined appetizer for a dinner party, this soup is guaranteed to impress. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of gourmet cooking from the comfort of your home!
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