Creamy Garlic Mushroom Soup

Name: Creamy Garlic Mushroom Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 500g fresh mushrooms, sliced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Creamy Garlic Mushroom Soup whenever I'm craving something warm and comforting! The rich, velvety texture and the earthy flavor of fresh mushrooms paired with the aromatic garlic always create a delightful experience. This recipe is quick to whip up and perfect for cozy evenings. With just a handful of ingredients, I can enjoy a hearty bowl of soup that feels indulgent yet is straightforward to prepare. It's become one of my go-to recipes for satisfying my comfort food cravings!

Created by

Isla Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:07:23.355Z

When I first tried to make Creamy Garlic Mushroom Soup, I was amazed by how quickly it came together. The key is to sauté the garlic and mushrooms until they’re golden and fragrant, which enhances their natural flavors. Additionally, using a good quality vegetable stock elevates the entire dish and makes it wonderfully savory.

I also discovered that blending a portion of the soup gives it a luxurious creaminess without needing too much cream. It’s a fantastic trick that I’ve come to rely on, ensuring a rich texture while keeping it light and satisfying.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, earthy flavors that warm the soul
Luxurious texture without excessive cream
Quick and easy to make for any weeknight dinner
Perfect balance of garlic and mushroom notes

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh mushrooms is key to achieving the best flavor in this Creamy Garlic Mushroom Soup. Varieties such as cremini or shiitake bring deeper, earthier notes, while white button mushrooms keep things lighter and milder. When selecting mushrooms, look for ones that are firm and free from blemishes, as this will enhance the overall taste and texture of the soup. Avoid canned mushrooms, as they can result in a mushy consistency and lack the vibrant flavor you want in this comforting dish.

Another crucial ingredient is the aromatic garlic, which not only infuses the soup with flavor but also adds numerous health benefits. For the best results, use fresh garlic cloves rather than pre-minced options. Mince them yourself to release essential oils that elevate the soup's fragrance and taste. If you're sensitive to garlic's pungency, consider roasting the cloves first to mellow their flavor before adding them to the pot.

Techniques for Perfect Texture

Blending only half the soup is a critical step for achieving a luxurious texture. This technique allows you to maintain some whole mushroom pieces, adding pleasant bites that contrast beautifully with the creamy base. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer half the soup to a traditional blender, but be cautious with the hot liquid—allow it to cool slightly to prevent splattering. Always cover the blender's lid with a kitchen towel to safely release steam.

Be attentive when stirring in the heavy cream; adding it too rapidly can cause curdling, especially if the soup is too hot. To prevent this, lower the heat after blending and warm the soup gently, then mix in the cream gradually while stirring continuously. This not only ensures a smooth incorporation but also helps maintain the soup's inviting color and rich flavor.

Ingredients

For the Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
500g fresh mushrooms, sliced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until transparent, about 5 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook until they are golden, about 8-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend about half of the soup until smooth. This creates a creamy texture while leaving some mushroom chunks for added bite.

Finish with Cream

Stir in the heavy cream and let the soup heat through. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use plant-based broth.

Storage and Reheating

This Creamy Garlic Mushroom Soup is excellent for meal prep! You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to maintain the creamy texture. If the soup thickens in the fridge, add a splash of vegetable broth or water while heating to reach your desired consistency. Avoid microwaving it if possible, as this may lead to uneven heating and affect the soup’s overall texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. However, keep in mind that the cream can separate upon thawing. To freeze, omit the heavy cream and store the blended soup base in freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding the cream toward the end of heating for the best results.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This soup can be served as a starter or a main dish. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the delicious broth. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or chives on top not only enhances the presentation but adds a burst of fresh flavor. For a hint of acidity, a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the rich flavors of the soup.

Feel free to experiment with variations by adding other vegetables such as spinach or kale for a nutritional boost. You can also swap the heavy cream for coconut milk if you prefer a dairy-free version. Just be cautious with the seasoning as coconut milk adds a different flavor profile. For added protein, consider incorporating cooked chicken or beans before blending the soup, making it even more filling and satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance and reheat it when needed. Just be mindful of not overcooking the mushrooms when reheating.

→ What mushrooms are best for this soup?

I recommend using a mixture of button and cremini mushrooms for a depth of flavor, but you can use any mushrooms you like.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well! Just store it in an airtight container and reheat it on the stove. The texture may change slightly after freezing.

→ Is there a way to make this soup lighter?

You can use half-and-half or a lower-fat cream to reduce the calories while still achieving a creamy texture.