Creamy Mushroom and Thyme Soup

Name: Creamy Mushroom and Thyme Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 500g mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work well); 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Meal Favorites

I often find myself craving a warm bowl of soup on chilly evenings, especially when it’s something as comforting as creamy mushroom and thyme soup. The rich earthy flavors of mushrooms meld beautifully with the fragrant touch of thyme, making this dish a favorite in my home. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, and the aroma that fills the kitchen while it simmers is simply irresistible. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with crusty bread, this soup never fails to warm my heart and satisfy my taste buds.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-01-30T02:25:27.995Z

When I first made this creamy mushroom and thyme soup, I was surprised by how the using fresh thyme completely elevated the dish. I experimented with dried herbs but found that fresh thyme adds a depth of flavor that makes a noticeable difference. The method of sautéing the mushrooms until they're golden also deepens the rich taste, creating a beautiful base for the soup.

One tip I swear by is to blend the soup until it’s completely smooth for the creamiest texture. I use an immersion blender right in the pot, which saves on cleanup and lets me adjust the thickness easily if I want it a little thinner. It’s become my go-to recipe for cozy nights!

Why You Will Love This Soup
Hearty and satisfying without being heavy
Fresh thyme adds a delightful aroma and flavor
Perfectly creamy texture that feels indulgent
Easily customizable with your favorite gourmet mushrooms

Understanding the Ingredients

Mushrooms play a central role in this soup, contributing not just to the flavor but also to the texture. Using a mix of button and cremini mushrooms enhances the depth of the broth. Button mushrooms offer a mild, delicate taste, while cremini add a hearty earthiness. If you want to elevate the dish further, consider using wild mushrooms such as shiitake or oyster, which will impart a unique umami flavor that makes the soup even more gourmet.

Heavy cream gives the soup its luxurious texture, making each spoonful feel indulgent. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or use coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just be sure to add the cream towards the end of cooking to maintain its rich consistency and prevent it from curdling.

Cooking Techniques for Creaminess

Blending the soup is a critical step to achieving the desired creaminess. Using an immersion blender is my go-to method because it allows you to blend the soup directly in the pot, which reduces cleanup. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender, making sure to leave space for steam to escape—about halfway full is a safe bet to avoid spills.

Make sure to blend until completely smooth to enjoy the full creaminess of the soup. If you prefer a chunky texture, you can reserve some of the sautéed mushrooms before blending. This gives the final dish both a creamy base and little morsels of mushrooms to enjoy.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious creamy mushroom and thyme soup:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
500g mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work well)
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

These ingredients will come together to create a soul-soothing soup, perfect for any occasion.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy mushroom and thyme soup:

Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are golden brown and have released their moisture.

Add Broth and Thicken

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 10 minutes. Stir in the chopped thyme, salt, and pepper.

Blend and Serve

Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and heat through on low for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your delicious, creamy mushroom and thyme soup!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of white wine while sautéing the mushrooms. Additionally, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with milk for a lighter version.

Storage and Reheating

This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To store, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, do so gently over medium heat to avoid splattering and potential curdling of the cream. Stir frequently for even heating, and if the soup thickens too much, a splash of vegetable broth can help reach your desired consistency.

For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to three months. However, I recommend freezing it without the cream, as dairy can separate when defrosted. Instead, add the cream during the reheating process for optimal texture and flavor. Just remember to let it cool a bit before transferring the soup to freezer-safe containers.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy mushroom and thyme soup in deep bowls, and consider topping it with a drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of crème fraîche for a touch of elegance. Pair it with crusty bread or a light salad for a well-rounded meal. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a pinch of smoked paprika can also add a delightful finishing touch.

For a more substantial dish, try adding cooked grains like quinoa or barley to the soup just before serving. This not only makes the soup heartier but introduces an interesting texture that complements the creamy base beautifully. Feel free to experiment with different herbs—like rosemary or parsley—as a garnish to personalize the dish to your taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of mushrooms?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix different mushrooms like shiitake, portobello, or oyster for varied flavors and textures.

→ Can this soup be made ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for a few days. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving.

→ Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

Yes, you can use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and vegetable broth to make it vegan-friendly.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for an ultimate comfort meal.