If you’re craving comfort in a bowl that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, this Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe is your new best friend. Rich, velvety, and loaded with earthy mushrooms and fragrant herbs, it’s a timeless classic that soars above any canned version you’ve ever tried. The blend of fresh mushrooms, savory broth, a touch of Marsala wine, and creamy finish creates a symphony of flavors that’s perfect for cozy nights, impressing guests, or just treating yourself to something deliciously satisfying.

A close-up view of a bowl filled with creamy mushroom soup, showing many slices of cooked mushrooms spread throughout thick light beige soup with green herb bits sprinkled inside. A silver spoon lifts a portion of the soup, highlighting mushroom slices and the smooth texture of the liquid. The bowl is white and sits on a white marbled surface. In the background, there is a blurry piece of bread. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe calls for straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to build deep, authentic flavor. Each component plays an important role — from the butter and oil that start the richness, to the fresh thyme that brightens, and the Marsala wine that adds a subtle sweetness and complexity.

Butter (4 tablespoons): Adds a luscious, creamy base and helps sauté the aromatics beautifully.
Oil (1 tablespoon): Prevents butter from burning and ensures even cooking for the onions and mushrooms.
Onions, diced (2 cups): Bring a gentle sweetness and enhance the depth of flavor without overpowering.
Garlic, minced (4 cloves): Infuses the soup with a warm, fragrant note that complements the mushrooms perfectly.
Brown mushrooms, sliced (1 1/2 pounds): The star ingredient, providing earthiness and a meaty texture that defines the soup.
Chopped thyme (4 teaspoons divided): Adds a fresh herbal kick to brighten the rich mushroom flavor.
Marsala wine (1/2 cup): Introduces subtle sweetness and complexity, elevating the soup’s character.
All-purpose flour (6 tablespoons): Creates the perfect thickness for that beautiful creamy texture.
Low sodium chicken broth (4 cups): The flavorful liquid base that shoulders the mushroom essence.
Salt (1-2 teaspoons): Balances and enhances all the flavors while seasoning to taste.
Black pepper, cracked (1/2-1 teaspoons): Adds gentle spice and a bit of warmth.
Beef bouillon cubes, crumbled (2 cubes): Boosts the umami and depth without overpowering the gentle mushroom notes.
Heavy cream (1 cup): The creamy finish that makes every spoonful silky smooth and indulgent. Half and half or evaporated milk work as lighter substitutes.
Fresh parsley (1/2 tablespoon): Used as a garnish to add a burst of fresh, green brightness.
Fresh thyme (1/2 tablespoon): Also for garnish, enhancing aroma and presentation.

How to Make Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by melting butter together with oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. This combination offers a perfect balance to carry the flavors without burning. Add the diced onions and sauté them for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and begin to turn translucent, releasing a mild sweetness. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This base of softened onion and garlic is where the magic starts and builds a rich flavor foundation.

Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms with Thyme

Time to add your sliced brown mushrooms and 2 teaspoons of chopped thyme. Mushrooms release moisture while cooking, so keep them moving in the pot for about 5 minutes to evaporate excess liquid and concentrate their earthy flavor. Pour in the Marsala wine and let it bubble gently for 3 minutes, which will intensify the soup’s complexity with its subtle fruity undertones.

Step 3: Create the Roux

Sprinkle the flour evenly over the mushrooms and stir well, cooking for 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. This step is crucial because the flour acts as a thickening agent, giving the soup its signature silky texture. Make sure the mixture is well combined and slightly toasted before moving on.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the low sodium chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Season with salt, cracked black pepper, and the crumbled beef bouillon cubes. Cover the pot and allow the soup to simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering melds the flavors beautifully and thickens the soup to just the right consistency.

Step 5: Finish with Cream and Herbs

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream (or your chosen substitute). Keep the soup on a gentle simmer without boiling to preserve the cream’s delicate texture. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Finally, mix in the remaining thyme and chopped parsley for a burst of fresh aroma. Your soup is ready to warm your soul.

How to Serve Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe

Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley and thyme sprinkled on top brighten the rich, creamy soup and add a pretty touch of green that makes each serving inviting. For a bit of crunch and contrast, toasted bread crumbs or crispy pancetta bits make a perfect companion.

Side Dishes

This Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a warm baguette for dipping. A light mixed green salad or roasted vegetable medley creates a balanced meal with fresh textures complementing the soup’s smoothness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the soup in hollowed-out sourdough bread bowls to impress your guests. You can also ladle it over warm cooked rice or drizzled with truffle oil for an extra decadent touch that makes each spoonful unforgettable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your soup, simply let any leftovers cool to room temperature and store them in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next meal even better.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe later, it freezes beautifully. Pour the cooled soup into airtight containers, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember to leave out the cream if you plan to freeze, adding it fresh when reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often until warmed through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Add a splash of cream or broth if the soup thickens too much to bring it back to that perfect silky consistency.

FAQs

Can I use different types of mushrooms in this recipe?

Absolutely! While brown mushrooms provide a hearty flavor, you can mix in cremini, shiitake, or even portobello mushrooms to add different textures and deeper earthy notes to your soup.

Is there a dairy-free version of this Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream to maintain the creamy texture while keeping it dairy-free. Just keep in mind this may subtly change the flavor profile.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch slurry to thicken the soup, ensuring that you check the broth and bouillon cubes for gluten content as well.

Can I make this soup vegan?

To go vegan, swap the butter for olive oil or vegan margarine, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, replace bouillon cubes with a vegan alternative, and use plant-based cream substitutes to keep the soup rich and satisfying.

What wine can I substitute for Marsala?

If you don’t have Marsala on hand, dry red or white wines will work nicely. Choose a wine you enjoy drinking because the flavor will influence the soup’s taste. Sherry is another good substitute, providing a similar depth.

Final Thoughts

This Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again. Its comforting flavors, silky richness, and the homey feeling it evokes make it a true classic that never disappoints. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a sophisticated starter, this soup fits the bill perfectly. So grab those mushrooms and get cooking — trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe