Cream Of Mushroom Soup With Meat Recipe

Cream of Mushroom Soup with meat is a timeless comfort dish that blends the earthy, umami flavors of mushrooms with the rich, savory depth of meat, all bound together in a velvety, creamy broth. This recipe is the ultimate fusion of hearty and comforting, perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering. The addition of meat brings a satisfying heartiness, making it more than just a side dish or appetizer. It’s a meal on its own.

Imagine the rich aroma of mushrooms slowly sautéing with garlic and onions, infusing your kitchen with that unmistakable warmth. Then, as the broth thickens and the cream swirls in, you’re left with a dish that’s as decadent as it is soul-soothing. What makes this recipe even better is that it’s surprisingly easy to make, with ingredients you might already have in your pantry. Let’s dive into this comforting classic and learn how to make the best Cream of Mushroom Soup with Meat!

Cream Of Mushroom Soup With Meat Recipe

This rich, velvety cream of mushroom soup with meat is a hearty, satisfying dish that will keep you coming back for more. It strikes the perfect balance between earthy mushrooms, savory meat, and creamy goodness. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients Needed

For this recipe, you’ll need:

• Mushrooms: The star of the soup. Use fresh button mushrooms or cremini for the best texture and flavor.
• Meat: Ground beef, ground turkey, or even shredded chicken. The meat adds richness and depth.
• Onion: A finely chopped onion brings out a natural sweetness and balances the earthy mushrooms.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for enhancing the flavors.
• Butter: For sautéing the vegetables and creating a smooth base.
• Flour: To make a roux (thickening agent) for the soup.
• Broth: Chicken or beef broth works best to create a flavorful base. If you want a lighter option, use vegetable broth.
• Heavy Cream: For that rich, creamy texture.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, always taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
• Herbs: Thyme or rosemary work wonderfully to add depth. Fresh herbs are preferred, but dried will work too.
• Parmesan Cheese: Optional, but a sprinkle at the end adds a wonderful umami kick.

Cooking Instructions

Making this creamy mushroom soup with meat is easy and straightforward:

1. Sauté The Vegetables

   • Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant (about 3-5 minutes).

2. Cook The Meat

   • Add your ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken) to the pot. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Add The Mushrooms

   • Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook them down until they release their moisture and shrink, about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be nicely caramelized and tender.

4. Make The Roux

   • Push the meat and mushrooms to one side of the pot. In the empty space, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, sprinkle 3 tablespoons of flour over the butter and stir to combine, forming a roux. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

5. Add The Broth

   • Gradually pour in the broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Stir the mixture together and bring it to a simmer. The broth should thicken slightly as it heats up.

6. Add The Cream

   • Once the soup has simmered for 5 minutes and thickened, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Continue to cook on low for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

7. Season And Garnish

   • Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Ingredient Insights

• Mushrooms: Not only do mushrooms provide that signature earthy, umami flavor, but they also offer nutritional benefits. They’re packed with antioxidants and are a great source of fiber, vitamins (like Vitamin D), and minerals (like potassium and iron).
• Meat: The choice of meat can make a big difference. Ground beef will give the soup a rich, hearty flavor, while ground turkey or chicken will provide a lighter, leaner option.
• Heavy Cream: The key to getting the soup’s signature silky, smooth texture. You can swap this for half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley complement the richness of the soup beautifully, bringing out the natural flavors of the mushrooms and meat.

Expert Tips

• Sauté the mushrooms well: Don’t rush this step! Let the mushrooms brown and caramelize before adding the broth. This step deepens their flavor.
• Use a mix of mushrooms: Try adding some wild mushrooms (like shiitake or oyster) to mix things up for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
• Make it ahead: Like most soups, this one tastes even better the next day. Let it cool, store it in an airtight container, and refrigerate it. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed.
• For extra richness: Add a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese or sour cream to give the soup an extra creamy texture and tang.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and use vegetable broth. Add extra vegetables like carrots, celery, or leeks to give the soup more depth.
• Spicy Mushroom Soup: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili to the soup for a bit of heat. You can even swirl in some hot sauce at the end for extra kick.
• Mushroom and Bacon: For a smoky flavor, add crispy bacon bits to the soup just before serving. The bacon’s fat can also be used to sauté the vegetables for extra flavor.
• Vegan Option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and replace the meat with plant-based protein, such as lentils or tofu. Make sure to use vegetable broth for a fully vegan version.

Final Words

Cream of Mushroom Soup with meat is one of those dishes that strikes the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication. It’s indulgent but not overly heavy, packed with layers of flavor but simple enough to make any time. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner or prepping for a larger meal, this recipe fits the bill. And let’s not forget the versatility-play with different meats, mushrooms, and seasonings to make it your own.