20 Best Mushroom Soups to Warm Your Soul
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of mushroom soup to comfort you on a chilly day. With its earthy flavors and rich, creamy textures, mushroom soup is the perfect blend of comfort and indulgence. Mushrooms, with their deep umami taste, bring a satisfying, savory element to soups that make them feel wholesome and hearty. Whether you’re a fan of classic cream-based versions or enjoy trying new and creative variations, mushroom soup always hits the spot.
In this collection of the 20 best mushroom soups, you’ll discover a range of recipes that go far beyond the ordinary. From traditional cream of mushroom to exotic Thai-inspired coconut mushroom soup, each one offers a unique twist. These recipes are ideal for weeknight dinners, cozy weekend lunches, or whenever you crave something warm, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.
Ready to explore the ultimate comfort food? Let’s dive into these delicious mushroom soup recipes that will warm your heart and elevate your kitchen.
1. Classic Cream of Mushroom Soup
A timeless favorite, classic cream of mushroom soup is rich, velvety, and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect comforting dish for a cold day or a light starter before dinner.
Ingredients Highlight: This classic version uses cremini mushrooms for an earthy flavor, combined with heavy cream to create a creamy texture. Garlic, onions, and thyme add depth, while butter provides a rich base.
How to Make It: Start by sautéing chopped onions and garlic in butter until fragrant, then add sliced mushrooms and cook until they’re golden and tender. Stir in flour to thicken, then slowly add vegetable or chicken broth. Let it simmer before blending until smooth. Add heavy cream to achieve the velvety texture, and season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme.
Serving Tips: Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread for dipping or a grilled cheese sandwich on the side for a truly comforting meal. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or cracked black pepper.
2. Wild Mushroom Soup
If you’re looking for something more sophisticated, wild mushroom soup brings a complex, earthy flavor that’s a step above your typical mushroom soup. By using a mix of different mushrooms, you can create a truly rich and aromatic dish.
Ingredients Highlight: This recipe calls for a mix of wild mushrooms like porcini, shiitake, and chanterelle to create depth. A splash of dry white wine enhances the flavors, while vegetable or chicken broth serves as the base.
How to Make It: Begin by soaking dried wild mushrooms, such as porcini, in hot water to rehydrate them—this soaking liquid adds extra umami to the broth. Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil, add your mix of mushrooms, and cook until browned. Pour in white wine and let it reduce, then add broth and the mushroom soaking liquid. Simmer for about 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Serving Tips: Serve with a drizzle of truffle oil or a dollop of crème fraîche for an elegant touch. Garnish with finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
3. Vegan Cream of Mushroom Soup
You don’t need dairy to enjoy a creamy mushroom soup. This vegan version is just as rich and comforting, using plant-based ingredients to achieve that luscious texture.
Ingredients Highlight: This soup uses coconut milk or cashew cream as a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream. Cremini and button mushrooms provide the earthy base, while garlic, onions, and vegetable broth build the flavor.
How to Make It: Start by sautéing garlic and onions in olive oil until soft. Add in sliced mushrooms and cook until browned. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Blend half of the soup until smooth, leaving some mushroom slices for texture. Stir in coconut milk or cashew cream to finish.
Serving Tips: Top with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh chopped parsley. This vegan soup pairs well with a slice of crusty sourdough bread for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
4. Mushroom Barley Soup
For a hearty, comforting option, mushroom barley soup is a classic. The chewy texture of barley, combined with the earthy flavor of mushrooms, makes this soup a filling and nourishing choice.
Ingredients Highlight: This soup combines button mushrooms with barley, along with carrots, celery, and onions for a rich, chunky broth. Vegetable or beef broth is used as the base, providing a savory depth of flavor.
How to Make It: Sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened, then add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender. Stir in barley, and pour in the broth. Let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the barley is cooked and chewy. Add fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves to infuse more flavor into the soup.
Serving Tips: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon for added brightness. This soup is perfect on its own or paired with a simple side salad for a complete meal.
5. Hungarian Mushroom Soup
Hungarian mushroom soup is known for its distinctive flavors—savory with a hint of spice, tangy from sour cream, and aromatic from herbs like dill and paprika. It’s a unique and flavorful twist on traditional mushroom soups.
Ingredients Highlight: The key ingredients include paprika, sour cream, dill, and cremini mushrooms. A bit of white wine adds acidity, while milk or cream contributes to the creamy base.
How to Make It: Start by sautéing onions in butter until soft. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until golden. Stir in paprika, dill, and a splash of white wine. Once the wine has reduced, add vegetable or chicken broth and let it simmer. Finish by stirring in sour cream and a bit of milk for creaminess, and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and more paprika if desired.
Serving Tips: Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or dill. This soup is hearty and pairs well with buttered rye bread or a warm baguette.
6. Mushroom and Leek Soup
For a delicate, flavorful option, mushroom and leek soup is the way to go. The subtle sweetness of leeks pairs beautifully with earthy mushrooms, creating a light but satisfying soup perfect for any time of the day.
Ingredients Highlight: This soup features leeks, white mushrooms, and vegetable stock. Garlic, thyme, and a touch of cream bring everything together for a velvety finish.
How to Make It: Begin by cleaning and slicing the leeks—make sure to rinse thoroughly to remove any dirt. Sauté the leeks in butter until they’re soft and fragrant, then add sliced mushrooms and continue cooking until browned. Pour in vegetable stock and let it simmer until all the flavors meld together. To finish, blend part of the soup for a smoother texture, and add a splash of cream.
Serving Tips: Serve with a garnish of crispy fried leeks to add texture. A slice of fresh bread on the side will complete this light yet comforting meal.
7. Creamy Mushroom and Cauliflower Soup
If you’re looking for a low-carb option that still has that creamy richness, try a mushroom and cauliflower soup. The cauliflower adds body to the soup without the need for extra cream, making it a healthier yet indulgent choice.
Ingredients Highlight: This soup features cauliflower and mushrooms, along with garlic, onion, and vegetable broth. A bit of nutritional yeast can be added for an extra boost of flavor.
How to Make It: Start by sautéing onions and garlic until translucent, then add chopped cauliflower and mushrooms. Cook until the vegetables are tender, then pour in vegetable broth and let it simmer. Once everything is soft, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. You can also add a splash of coconut milk for extra creaminess.
Serving Tips: Top with a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra flavor. This soup pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad.
8. Thai Coconut Mushroom Soup
For an exotic twist, try a Thai-inspired coconut mushroom soup. This soup combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with fragrant spices and herbs, creating a flavor-packed dish that’s both comforting and refreshing.
Ingredients Highlight: The key ingredients include coconut milk, lemongrass, shiitake mushrooms, lime juice, and a bit of spice from red curry paste. Fresh herbs like cilantro and basil add brightness.
How to Make It: Begin by heating a bit of oil in a pot and adding minced garlic, ginger, and red curry paste. Once fragrant, add sliced shiitake mushrooms and sauté for a few minutes. Pour in coconut milk and vegetable broth, along with bruised lemongrass stalks. Let it simmer until the flavors are well blended. Finish with lime juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
Serving Tips: Garnish with fresh cilantro, a slice of lime, and thinly sliced red chilies for a pop of color. Serve this soup hot, with a side of jasmine rice to make it a heartier meal.
9. Mushroom and Potato Soup
Mushroom and potato soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender potatoes with the rich flavor of mushrooms. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly nights when you want something warming and satisfying.
Ingredients Highlight: This recipe includes russet potatoes, button mushrooms, onion, garlic, and heavy cream. Thyme and bay leaves add aromatic depth to the broth.
How to Make It: Sauté chopped onions and garlic until soft, then add sliced mushrooms and diced potatoes. Cook for a few minutes before adding vegetable or chicken broth, thyme, and a bay leaf. Simmer until the potatoes are tender. Blend half of the soup for a creamy texture while leaving the rest chunky. Add cream to finish, and adjust the seasoning.
Serving Tips: Serve with crispy bacon bits sprinkled on top for added flavor and texture. A slice of toasted baguette or a simple green salad makes a great side dish for this hearty soup.
10. Mushroom Lentil Soup
For a protein-packed, filling option, mushroom lentil soup is the perfect choice. This nutritious soup is hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own and has layers of earthy, savory flavors that are deeply satisfying.
Ingredients Highlight: This soup features brown lentils, portobello mushrooms, carrots, celery, and garlic. Fresh thyme and bay leaves infuse the broth, and tomato paste adds a depth of flavor.
How to Make It: Sauté chopped onions, carrots, and celery until soft, then add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Cook until the mushrooms are browned, then stir in tomato paste. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, thyme, and bay leaves, and bring to a simmer. Let it cook until the lentils are tender, which usually takes about 25-30 minutes.
Serving Tips: Serve with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley. A slice of toasted sourdough bread is perfect for soaking up the rich, flavorful broth.
11. Roasted Garlic and Mushroom Soup
For a rich, flavorful option, roasted garlic and mushroom soup is a perfect choice. Roasting the garlic brings out a deep, caramelized sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the earthy mushrooms.
Ingredients Highlight: This recipe uses roasted garlic, shiitake mushrooms, cremini mushrooms, and heavy cream. Thyme and rosemary add a fragrant note, while vegetable broth provides the base.
How to Make It: Start by roasting a whole head of garlic in the oven until soft and caramelized. Meanwhile, sauté mushrooms in butter with chopped onions until golden. Add the roasted garlic (squeezed from its skins), and pour in vegetable broth. Let it simmer before blending part of the soup for a creamy consistency. Finish with heavy cream and season to taste.
Serving Tips: Serve with a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil and crunchy croutons. The roasted garlic adds complexity, making this soup a great option for special occasions.
12. Mushroom Orzo Soup
Mushroom orzo soup is light yet filling, thanks to the tender orzo pasta. It’s a great option for when you want something comforting but not overly heavy, combining the best of mushrooms with pasta in a delicious broth.
Ingredients Highlight: This soup features orzo pasta, button mushrooms, spinach, and vegetable broth. Fresh thyme and bay leaves add a fragrant touch, while a splash of lemon juice brings brightness.
How to Make It: Sauté garlic and onions in olive oil until fragrant, then add sliced mushrooms and cook until browned. Add the orzo and toast it for a minute before pouring in the vegetable broth. Let it simmer until the orzo is tender. Stir in fresh spinach and let it wilt, then finish with a splash of lemon juice.
Serving Tips: Serve with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper for an extra savory touch. This soup is great as a light main dish or paired with a side salad.
13. French Mushroom Soup
Inspired by French cuisine, this mushroom soup features a variety of mushrooms with a splash of white wine, creating a sophisticated and aromatic dish that’s full of flavor.
Ingredients Highlight: This recipe uses mixed mushrooms like shiitake, oyster, and cremini, along with shallots, white wine, and fresh thyme. A bit of cream adds smoothness without overpowering the flavors.
How to Make It: Sauté shallots in butter until soft, then add a mix of sliced mushrooms and cook until browned. Pour in a splash of white wine and let it reduce, then add vegetable broth and thyme. Simmer for 20 minutes, then blend part of the soup to achieve a thicker consistency. Stir in cream at the end for a velvety finish.
Serving Tips: Serve with a baguette slice topped with melted Gruyère cheese. The French inspiration makes this a perfect starter for an elegant dinner.
14. Slow Cooker Creamy Mushroom Soup
For those who love convenience without sacrificing flavor, a slow cooker creamy mushroom soup is a fantastic option. It’s rich, creamy, and allows the flavors to develop slowly, resulting in a deeply comforting dish.
Ingredients Highlight: Cremini mushrooms, onions, garlic, thyme, and heavy cream form the base of this slow-cooked delight. A bit of Worcestershire sauce adds depth to the flavor.
How to Make It: Add sliced mushrooms, chopped onions, minced garlic, and thyme to your slow cooker, along with vegetable or chicken broth. Let it cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the mushrooms are tender and the flavors have melded together. Blend part of the soup until smooth, then stir in heavy cream and season to taste.
Serving Tips: Serve hot, garnished with a sprig of thyme. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for meal prepping and can be easily frozen for later use.
15. Mushroom Miso Soup
Mushroom miso soup is a fusion of Japanese flavors with the deep umami taste of mushrooms. It’s a light yet satisfying soup, ideal for a quick lunch or a starter before a larger meal.
Ingredients Highlight: This recipe uses white miso paste, shiitake mushrooms, tofu, and green onions. Seaweed (nori) and sesame seeds add authentic Japanese flavors.
How to Make It: Bring vegetable broth to a simmer, then add sliced shiitake mushrooms and cubed tofu. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender. In a separate bowl, dissolve the miso paste with a bit of hot broth before adding it to the soup (this helps preserve the miso’s flavor and nutrients). Stir in chopped green onions and nori strips.
Serving Tips: Garnish with sesame seeds and a few extra nori strips for a classic Japanese touch. This soup pairs well with steamed rice or a side of edamame.
16. Spicy Mushroom Soup
If you enjoy a bit of heat, a spicy mushroom soup is the perfect choice to warm you up. It’s loaded with flavor and has just the right amount of kick to excite your taste buds.
Ingredients Highlight: This soup features button mushrooms, garlic, vegetable broth, and red pepper flakes for spice. A touch of soy sauce adds umami, while lime juice adds brightness.
How to Make It: Sauté garlic in oil until fragrant, then add sliced mushrooms and cook until they begin to soften. Pour in vegetable broth, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Adjust the heat level by adding more red pepper flakes to your liking.
Serving Tips: Top with a swirl of chili oil for extra heat and fresh cilantro for a burst of color. Serve with a slice of crusty bread to balance the spiciness.
17. Mushroom and Spinach Soup
Combining the earthy flavors of mushrooms with tender spinach leaves, this mushroom and spinach soup is nutritious, comforting, and perfect for a light meal.
Ingredients Highlight: This soup features baby spinach, white mushrooms, onions, garlic, and a touch of cream. A pinch of grated nutmeg adds warmth to the flavor profile.
How to Make It: Start by sautéing onions and garlic until soft, then add sliced mushrooms and cook until golden. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in fresh spinach and let it wilt. Blend part of the soup to thicken it, and add a splash of cream. Season with salt, pepper, and a bit of grated nutmeg.
Serving Tips: Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese and a slice of toasted garlic bread. This soup makes for a wholesome lunch or a light dinner.
18. Mushroom Bisque
Mushroom bisque is an elegant, luxurious soup that’s perfect for special occasions. It’s smooth, creamy, and deeply flavorful, making it an excellent choice for when you want to impress your guests.
Ingredients Highlight: This bisque uses portobello mushrooms, heavy cream, white wine, and shallots. A bit of butter adds richness, while thyme enhances the earthy mushroom flavor.
How to Make It: Sauté finely chopped shallots in butter until soft, then add sliced portobello mushrooms and cook until golden. Pour in white wine and allow it to reduce by half. Add vegetable broth and thyme, and let it simmer for 20 minutes. Blend the soup until completely smooth, then stir in heavy cream. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serving Tips: Serve with a drizzle of truffle oil for an upscale touch. Garnish with a few thinly sliced mushrooms sautéed in butter, and serve alongside a warm baguette for a complete experience.
19. Mushroom and Chickpea Soup
Mushroom and chickpea soup is a hearty, protein-rich option that’s perfect for a nutritious, filling meal. The combination of mushrooms and chickpeas creates a rich, satisfying texture that’s wholesome and flavorful.
Ingredients Highlight: This soup features cremini mushrooms, canned chickpeas, vegetable broth, and cumin. Garlic and onion provide a savory base, while fresh parsley adds brightness.
How to Make It: Start by sautéing chopped onions and minced garlic in olive oil. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until golden brown. Stir in drained chickpeas, vegetable broth, and a pinch of cumin. Let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Blend a portion of the soup to thicken it while keeping some whole chickpeas for added texture.
Serving Tips: Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a tangy finish. A side of pita bread or naan works well to scoop up this thick and hearty soup.
20. Creamy Mushroom and Carrot Soup
Combining the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the slight sweetness of carrots, creamy mushroom and carrot soup is a comforting, well-balanced dish that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients Highlight: This soup uses button mushrooms, carrots, onions, garlic, and heavy cream. A bit of fresh ginger adds warmth and a slight zing that complements the flavors perfectly.
How to Make It: Begin by sautéing chopped onions, garlic, and grated ginger until fragrant. Add sliced mushrooms and diced carrots, and cook until they begin to soften. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer, allowing it to cook until the carrots are tender. Blend the soup until smooth, and stir in heavy cream for a velvety finish. Season with salt, pepper, and a touch of nutmeg.
Serving Tips: Garnish with fresh chopped chives for added color and flavor. This soup is perfect with a piece of crusty bread or a cheese toastie on the side for a cozy meal.
Tips for Making the Perfect Mushroom Soup
To make any mushroom soup truly shine, there are a few essential tips to keep in mind:
1. Selecting Mushrooms
- Cremini, Button, and Shiitake: For a classic flavor, use cremini or button mushrooms. For a more complex, rich flavor, add shiitake or porcini.
- Mix of Fresh and Dried: Using a combination of fresh and dried mushrooms can add depth—dried mushrooms, when rehydrated, have a concentrated flavor that enhances the soup.
2. Building Flavor
- Sautéing First: Always sauté mushrooms, onions, and garlic before adding liquid. This step caramelizes the mushrooms and builds a rich, deep flavor.
- Layering Ingredients: Add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves during cooking to enhance the soup’s aroma. Deglaze the pan with wine or sherry for added complexity.
3. Adding Creaminess
- Blending: For a creamy consistency, blend part or all of the soup. For a chunky texture, only blend half and leave the rest whole.
- Cream Alternatives: If you’re avoiding dairy, use coconut milk or cashew cream for a similar creamy texture without sacrificing richness.
How to Serve and Store Mushroom Soup
Serving Suggestions
- Toppings: Mushroom soups are versatile and can be topped with a variety of ingredients—such as fresh herbs, a drizzle of truffle oil, croutons, or grated Parmesan cheese.
- Side Dishes: Pair mushroom soup with crusty bread, a fresh side salad, or a slice of garlic toast for a complete meal.
Storing and Freezing
- Refrigerating: Store leftover mushroom soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over medium heat to avoid curdling if cream is used.
- Freezing: Mushroom soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Avoid adding cream before freezing—add it when reheating for the best texture.
Conclusion
Mushroom soups offer the ultimate comfort—whether you crave a rich, creamy bisque or a spicy, exotic twist, there’s something on this list for everyone. From classic cream of mushroom to creative blends like Thai coconut and mushroom chickpea, each recipe brings its own unique flair to the table.
Take your time to explore these 20 best mushroom soup recipes and find your favorite way to bring warmth and comfort to your day. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, these soups will impress your family and guests alike.
So grab a pot, some fresh mushrooms, and get ready to make a comforting bowl of soup that will warm both your heart and soul!
