If you’re craving something cozy, elegant, and bursting with flavor, this Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. Rich, velvety, and perfectly seasoned, it brings together tender baby portabella mushrooms sautéed to perfection and a luscious blend of half and half and sour cream that elevates every spoonful. This soup is the ultimate comfort food that feels fancy enough for a dinner party yet simple enough for a weeknight treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to making this soup shine. Each element plays a crucial role, from the buttery base that deepens the flavor to the herbs and seasonings that add complexity and warmth. Here’s what you’ll gather for this Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe:
- 4 tablespoons salted butter: Provides a rich, smooth foundation for sautéing onions and mushrooms.
- 1 medium sweet onion (diced): Adds natural sweetness and depth to the soup’s flavor profile.
- 20 ounces baby portabella mushrooms (cleaned and sliced or cut into wedges): The star ingredient delivering an earthy, meaty texture.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the richness.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Offers aromatic warmth and a subtle kick.
- 2 teaspoons sweet paprika: Brings a smoky sweetness and beautiful color to the soup.
- 2 ½ cups chicken stock: Adds savory depth while keeping the soup light.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami and enriches the mushroom flavor.
- 2 teaspoons dried dill: Adds freshness and a delicate herbal note.
- 1 cup half and half: Creates a creamy texture without overpowering the soup.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup to the perfect consistency.
- ½ cup sour cream: Gives a tangy creaminess that balances the flavors beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley: Adds a hint of earthy green flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens the soup and cuts through the richness.
- Additional salt and black pepper to taste: For final seasoning adjustments to make it yours.
How to Make Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Base
Start by melting the salted butter in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced sweet onion and stir frequently until it softens and becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. This step releases the natural sugars in the onion, creating a flavorful base for your soup. Then, toss in the sliced baby portabella mushrooms and sprinkle with kosher salt to help draw out moisture. Continue cooking for 8 to 10 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and have released their earthy aroma. Toss in the minced garlic and sweet paprika, cooking and stirring constantly for about a minute to toast the spices and awaken that lovely garlicky scent.
Step 2: Simmer for Depth
Pour in the chicken stock, Worcestershire sauce, and dried dill, stirring everything together. Reduce the heat to low, cover your pot, and simmer for 15 minutes. This gentle simmer allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, transforming this combination into a rich, savory broth bursting with layers of mushroom goodness.
Step 3: Thicken and Creamify
Whisk together the half and half and all-purpose flour in a medium bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into your soup, making sure it is fully incorporated without any lumps. Cover and continue to simmer on low heat for another 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step thickens the soup naturally while adding that silky creaminess that makes this recipe truly stand out.
Step 4: Final Touches and Seasoning
Turn off the heat and stir in the sour cream, dried parsley, and fresh lemon juice. These finishing ingredients bring a fresh brightness and a gentle tang that balances the rich cream and earthy mushrooms. Taste your soup and adjust with more salt and freshly ground black pepper as desired. Now, your creamy masterpiece is ready to serve!
How to Serve Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your creamy mushroom soup adds that extra wow factor. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives for a vibrant green pop. A drizzle of truffle oil makes it feel luxurious, while crispy fried shallots or croutons add delightful texture contrasts. Don’t underestimate the power of a swirl of sour cream or a touch of smoked paprika on top—it’s all about those inviting finishing touches.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread or warm garlic baguette slices to soak up every last drop. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted root vegetables. A grilled cheese sandwich, especially with sharp cheddar or gruyere, is a classic combo that will always satisfy.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can elevate even the simplest soup. Serve your creamy mushroom soup in rustic stoneware bowls for a cozy feel or in elegant white crockery to let the color pop. For a fun twist, try mini bread bowls or hollowed-out mushrooms as edible vessels. You can also garnish with edible flowers or microgreens to impress guests with your culinary creativity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamy mushroom soup is a gift that keeps on giving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheated, the flavors deepen even more, making it taste as good or better than the first time.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully, although you might notice a slight change in texture due to the dairy. Cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months, so you’ll always have comfort food on hand whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or curdling. Avoid boiling to maintain that perfect creamy consistency. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of chicken stock or half and half to loosen it up while warming.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken stock with vegetable broth and skip the Worcestershire sauce or use a vegetarian version. The mushrooms and herbs still deliver tons of flavor for a satisfying vegetarian option.
What type of mushrooms work best?
Baby portabella mushrooms give great texture and earthiness, but you can mix in cremini, shiitake, or button mushrooms for variety. Just make sure to clean them well and slice evenly for consistent cooking.
Is there a dairy-free version of this soup?
Yes! Use coconut milk or a creamy plant-based milk mixed with a little cornstarch instead of half and half and sour cream. Nutritional yeast can add an extra umami punch to mimic the savory depth.
Can I make this soup ahead for a party?
Definitely! Prepare it a day in advance and gently reheat before serving. The flavors will have even more time to blend and intensify, making it even more delicious during your gathering.
How do I adjust the thickness?
If you prefer a thinner soup, add extra chicken stock or broth. For a thicker soup, increase the flour slightly or simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. With its rich, comforting flavors and smooth, satisfying texture, it’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a quiet evening at home. Don’t hesitate—once you make it, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
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Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe
This creamy mushroom soup is a rich and comforting dish combining tender baby portabella mushrooms, sweet onions, and a blend of flavorful spices simmered in chicken stock. Smoothened with half and half and thickened with flour, it concludes with sour cream and fresh lemon juice for a balanced, creamy finish perfect for cozy meals.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 medium sweet onion, diced
- 20 ounces baby portabella mushrooms, cleaned and sliced or cut into wedges
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
Liquid & Seasoning
- 2 ½ cups chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons dried dill
Thickener & Creaminess
- 1 cup half and half
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sour cream
Finishing Touches
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Additional salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onions, stirring frequently, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and kosher salt, continuing to cook for 8-10 more minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown. Then add minced garlic and sweet paprika, stirring constantly for 1 minute to release their aroma.
- Simmer with Stock and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken stock, Worcestershire sauce, and dried dill. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer gently for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add Cream and Thicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together the half and half and all-purpose flour until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the soup to prevent lumps. Cover and continue to simmer on low heat for an additional 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup thickens and becomes creamy.
- Finish and Season: Stir in the sour cream, dried parsley, and fresh lemon juice, heating through gently. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper as desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken stock with vegetable broth and omit Worcestershire sauce or use a vegetarian alternative.
- Use fresh herbs if available for a more vibrant flavor instead of dried parsley and dill.
- To make the soup vegan, replace butter and sour cream with plant-based alternatives, and use coconut or almond milk instead of half and half.
- Serve with crusty bread or croutons for a hearty meal.
- Storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator will keep for up to 3 days; reheat gently to prevent curdling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
