Creamy Mushroom and Thyme Soup

Name: Creamy Mushroom and Thyme Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 500g mixed mushrooms, sliced (button and cremini); 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Classics

I absolutely love making this Creamy Mushroom and Thyme Soup, especially when the weather turns chilly. The richness of the mushrooms combined with the earthy thyme makes for a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. Its velvety texture is divine, and I enjoy serving it with warm, crusty bread. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you'll have a bowl of pure indulgence ready in no time. Trust me, this soup is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to whip up on a busy day!

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-01-30T04:09:28.139Z

When I first made this Creamy Mushroom and Thyme Soup, I was surprised at how simple yet flavorful it turned out. After experimenting with various herbs, I discovered that a touch of thyme enhances the natural richness of the mushrooms beautifully. I recommend using a mix of button and cremini mushrooms to add depth and variety to the soup.

One of my favorite tips is to sauté the mushrooms until they are golden brown, which intensifies their flavor. The result is a creamy, luscious soup that makes for a perfect starter or a comforting main dish. Every time I make it, I'm reminded that sometimes, the best comforts come from the simplest recipes.

Why You'll Love This Soup
Luxuriously creamy texture that satisfies
Earthy thyme brings out the best in mushrooms
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

The Role of Fresh Thyme

Fresh thyme is not just an ingredient; it’s the soul of this soup. Its earthy flavor enhances the umami of the mushrooms, creating a harmonious balance. When adding thyme, consider the timing - adding it during the simmering phase allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If fresh thyme isn’t available, you can substitute it with dried thyme, but remember to use a smaller amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. About one teaspoon of dried thyme should suffice.

I find that a quick chop of fresh thyme right before adding it to the soup releases its aromatic oils, especially if you rub it between your fingers first. This little technique maximizes the herb's flavor profile. Keep in mind that thyme pairs well with various types of mushrooms; feel free to experiment with different varieties like shiitake or portobello for a unique twist.

Creaminess and Texture Variations

The heavy cream in this recipe gives the soup its luxurious texture, making it velvety and indulgent. However, if you're looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can be substituted, though the creaminess will be slightly reduced. For a vegan version, try using coconut cream or a cashew cream substitute, which can add a delightful depth of flavor and creaminess without dairy.

If you enjoy a varied texture, consider adding some cooked rice or pureed white beans along with the cream. This not only thickens the soup but also adds nutritional value and a different mouthfeel. Blending only half the soup, as suggested, creates a wonderful combination of smooth and chunky textures that keeps the experience interesting with every spoonful.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a rich and flavorful soup:

Ingredients for Creamy Mushroom and Thyme Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
500g mixed mushrooms, sliced (button and cremini)
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish

These ingredients will combine to create a deliciously comforting soup!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create a heartwarming soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot, and cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and tender.

Add Broth and Thyme

Pour in the vegetable broth and add the chopped thyme. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend just half of the soup and mix it back in.

Stir in Cream and Season

Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for 2-3 minutes, then serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme sprigs.

This simple method yields rich and creamy soup!

Pro Tips

For an even deeper flavor, try adding a splash of white wine after cooking the mushrooms, before adding the broth. The wine will add complexity to the dish.

Making Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup is a fantastic make-ahead dish! You can prepare it up to a day in advance. After blending, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating. To reheat, simply pour it back into a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If it thickens too much after refrigeration, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water until the desired consistency is reached.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup before adding the cream. Blend and cool it, then divide it into portions and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it gently over medium-low heat, stirring in the cream just before serving. This ensures the soup remains luscious and creamy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Creamy Mushroom and Thyme Soup as a starter or pair it with a fresh salad for a satisfying lunch. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of truffle oil on top elevates the dish, adding an extra layer of luxury. Fresh, crusty bread is an excellent accompaniment; I recommend a sourdough loaf that you can dip into the soup, savoring every last spoonful.

If you're looking to make it a more substantial meal, consider adding sautéed greens or roasted vegetables as a side. This not only enhances the nutritional profile but also adds vibrant color to your plate. You might even whisk in some cooked pasta or quinoa for added heartiness, turning this delicious soup into a filling one-pot meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use vegetable stock instead of broth?

Yes, vegetable stock works beautifully in this recipe and will enhance the flavor.

→ Is there a vegan option for this soup?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a vegan version.

→ How long does this soup keep in the fridge?

The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup! Just make sure to leave out the cream until reheating for best results.