Old fashioned cream of mushroom soup is a rich and comforting dish that brings classic homemade flavor to the table. Made with fresh mushrooms, creamy broth, onions, garlic, and herbs, this timeless soup has a deep savory taste that feels warm and satisfying in every spoonful.
It is the perfect recipe for cozy dinners, family meals, or relaxing evenings at home. Once you make this old fashioned cream of mushroom soup from scratch, it may quickly become one of your favorite homemade soup recipes.
1. Old Fashioned Cream of Mushroom Soup ( Yield: 10 Servings )
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large peeled and small diced yellow onion
- 4 finely minced cloves of garlic
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 pounds assorted cleaned and sliced fresh mushrooms
- ½ cup white wine
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 quarts chicken stock
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons finely minced fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon finely minced fresh thyme
- sea salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Begin by preparing all the vegetables and herbs. Clean the mushrooms carefully with a damp paper towel or soft brush to remove dirt, then slice them evenly. Dice the onion into small pieces and finely mince the garlic, parsley, and thyme so everything is ready before cooking begins.
Place a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the butter and olive oil, allowing the butter to melt completely. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and slightly translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir often to prevent the garlic from browning too quickly.
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot in batches if necessary. At first, the mushrooms may seem like a large amount, but they will shrink significantly as they cook. Stir the mushrooms occasionally and allow them to sauté for about 12 to 15 minutes until they release their moisture and develop a rich golden brown color.
Pour in the white wine and stir well, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any flavorful browned bits. Let the wine simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the alcohol cooks off and the flavor concentrates slightly.
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the mushroom mixture. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes to fully coat the mushrooms and cook out the raw flour taste. The mixture will become thick and slightly paste-like.
Slowly pour in the chicken stock while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue stirring until the soup becomes smooth and well combined.
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 20 to 25 minutes so the flavors can fully develop and the broth thickens slightly.
Stir in the heavy whipping cream, parsley, and fresh thyme. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes over low heat. Taste the soup and season with sea salt and pepper as needed.
For a chunkier soup, serve it exactly as it is. If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup while leaving some mushroom pieces intact for texture. You can also carefully transfer a portion of the soup to a blender and puree until smooth before returning it to the pot.
Serve the cream of mushroom soup hot with crusty bread, oyster crackers, or a side salad. Garnish with extra parsley or a few sautéed mushroom slices for a beautiful finishing touch.
2. Tips for Perfect Old Fashioned Cream of Mushroom Soup
Use a mix of mushroom varieties for deeper flavor. Cremini, white button, shiitake, and portobello mushrooms all add unique richness to the soup.
Do not overcrowd the pot while cooking mushrooms. If too many mushrooms are added at once, they will steam instead of browning properly.
Allow the mushrooms enough time to caramelize. Golden brown mushrooms create a richer and more savory flavor.
Use room temperature cream before adding it to the soup. Cold cream can sometimes separate when added to hot liquids.
Stir the soup frequently after adding the flour to maintain a smooth texture and prevent sticking on the bottom of the pot.
Fresh herbs provide the best flavor in homemade mushroom soup. Parsley and thyme brighten the rich creamy base beautifully.
For a thicker soup, let it simmer a little longer uncovered. If the soup becomes too thick, stir in extra chicken stock or cream until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Taste the soup at the end of cooking before adding more salt. Chicken stock and mushrooms naturally add savory flavor.
3. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make cream of mushroom soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup tastes even better after the flavors have had time to develop. Store it in the refrigerator and gently reheat before serving.
What mushrooms are best for cream of mushroom soup?
A combination of mushrooms creates the best flavor. White mushrooms are mild, cremini mushrooms add richness, and shiitake mushrooms bring a deeper earthy taste.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace the chicken stock with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version that still tastes rich and flavorful.
How long does cream of mushroom soup last in the refrigerator?
Stored in an airtight container, the soup will usually stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.
What can I serve with cream of mushroom soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, roasted vegetables, crackers, or a light green salad for a complete meal.
4. Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 285 |
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Fat | 21g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
| Sodium | 760mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 4g |
Old fashioned cream of mushroom soup is a timeless comfort food filled with rich flavor, creamy texture, and hearty mushrooms. Fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques come together to create a homemade soup that feels warm and satisfying for any occasion.
This classic recipe is perfect for family dinners, holiday meals, or quiet evenings at home. With its creamy broth and savory mushroom flavor, it is a dish that many people return to again and again when they want something comforting and delicious.
