There’s something irresistibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening. This creamy mushroom soup with fresh thyme and garlic brings together earthy mushrooms, fragrant herbs, and velvety cream for a dish that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl. Whether you’re looking for a simple dinner, a light lunch, or an elegant starter for a special meal, this soup fits the bill perfectly.
With its rich umami flavor and luxurious texture, this recipe is as satisfying as it is easy to make. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about creating this delicious dish!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Mushroom Soup
- Rich and Velvety Texture: The combination of blended mushrooms and optional cream creates a luxurious consistency.
- Packed with Flavor: Fresh thyme, garlic, and tamari elevate the soup’s earthy taste with herbaceous and umami notes.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
- Customizable: Adjust the creaminess, add different mushrooms, or make it vegan—it’s your soup, your way!
- Wholesome Ingredients: Made with fresh vegetables, herbs, and vegetable broth, it’s a healthier alternative to store-bought versions.
Ingredients for Creamy Mushroom Soup
| Category | Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Oils & Fats | Extra-virgin olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons | |
| Produce | Yellow onion, chopped | 1 medium |
| White button mushrooms, sliced | 1 pound | |
| Cremini mushrooms, sliced | 8 ounces | |
| Garlic cloves, grated | 2 | |
| Fresh thyme leaves | 1 tablespoon, plus more for garnish | |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | For garnish | |
| Liquids | Vegetable broth | 3 cups |
| Dry white wine | ¼ cup | |
| Heavy cream or crème fraîche (optional) | ½ cup | |
| Condiments | Tamari (or soy sauce) | 1 tablespoon |
| Spices | Sea salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped yellow onion, sprinkle with sea salt, and cook for 5–7 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
2. Cook the Mushrooms
- Add the sliced white button and cremini mushrooms to the pot.
- Season with freshly ground black pepper and stir.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their liquid and begin to brown.
3. Add Garlic and Wine
- Stir in the grated garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the dry white wine and scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits.
- Let the wine simmer for about 2 minutes until it reduces slightly.
4. Simmer the Soup
- Add the vegetable broth, tamari, and fresh thyme to the pot.
- Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Let the soup simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Blend for Creaminess
- For a creamy texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot. Blend partially for a chunky texture or fully for a smooth consistency.
- Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
6. Add the Cream
- Stir in the heavy cream or crème fraîche for a rich, velvety finish.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
7. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Drizzle with a touch of olive oil and garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of thyme leaves.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Benefits of Mushroom Soup
This creamy mushroom soup is not just delicious—it’s packed with nutrients that benefit your body:
| Ingredient | Health Benefits |
|---|---|
| Mushrooms | Rich in antioxidants, selenium, and vitamin D, supporting immunity and bone health. |
| Garlic | Contains allicin, known for its antibacterial and heart-health benefits. |
| Onions | Packed with vitamins and antioxidants that boost immunity. |
| Fresh Thyme | A powerful herb with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. |
| Olive Oil | Provides healthy fats that support heart health. |
Tips for Making the Best Creamy Mushroom Soup
1. Choose Fresh Mushrooms
For the best flavor, use fresh mushrooms that are firm and evenly colored. Avoid those that look slimy or discolored.
2. Experiment with Mushrooms
While white button and cremini mushrooms are classic choices, feel free to add shiitake, portobello, or oyster mushrooms for a deeper flavor profile.
3. Use High-Quality Broth
Vegetable broth enhances the soup’s flavor, so opt for a high-quality store-bought brand or homemade broth.
4. Adjust the Texture
If you prefer a chunky soup, skip blending altogether. For an ultra-smooth soup, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve after blending.
5. Make It Vegan
Skip the butter and cream and use coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Why Fresh Thyme and Garlic Are Key
Fresh thyme and garlic are the soul of this mushroom soup. The thyme adds earthy, herbaceous notes that complement the mushrooms, while the garlic brings warmth and depth to the broth. Together, they elevate the soup’s flavor to restaurant-quality status.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~180 |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | ~450 mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on ingredient brands.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze mushroom soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. However, if using cream, add it after reheating to avoid separation.
2. Can I use other herbs?
Absolutely! Substitute thyme with rosemary, sage, or even a bay leaf for a different flavor profile.
3. How can I make this soup thicker?
For a thicker consistency, add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch while sautéing the mushrooms.
4. Can I skip the wine?
Yes, you can skip the wine or replace it with a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity.
5. Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your tamari or soy sauce is certified gluten-free.
6. What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a side salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich.
Conclusion: Warmth in Every Spoonful
This creamy mushroom soup with fresh thyme and garlic is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience. Its rich flavors, comforting texture, and wholesome ingredients make it a dish you’ll come back to again and again.
Whether you’re serving it as a starter for a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this soup will never fail to satisfy. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to the simple joy of a homemade, hearty soup.
Pro Tip: For an elevated finish, add a drizzle of truffle oil or sprinkle crispy fried shallots on top!