If you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and incredibly satisfying, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Cream of Mushroom Soup with Rice. This dish brings together the richness of creamy soup and the comforting heartiness of rice, making it an ideal option for a cozy dinner or a light lunch. It’s a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl-perfect for those chilly days when you need something simple yet nourishing.
Cream of mushroom soup is already a classic on its own. But adding rice? That takes it to a whole new level of deliciousness. The rice absorbs the creamy broth, which helps it achieve a smooth, velvety texture. It’s the kind of recipe that feels indulgent, yet it’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this dish will surely leave everyone feeling full and satisfied.
In this post, we’re going to walk through an easy-to-follow recipe, discuss the best ingredients to use, share a few expert tips, and suggest some fun variations to customize the dish to your taste. Let’s dive in!
Cream Of Mushroom Soup With Rice Recipe
This is the recipe for a velvety, flavorful Cream of Mushroom Soup with Rice that combines the depth of mushrooms with the comforting richness of cream and the heartiness of rice. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, savory goodness. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients Needed
- 1 tablespoon butter – For sautéing the vegetables and providing a rich base flavor.
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped) – Adds a savory foundation to the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced) – Enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic kick.
- 300g (about 10 oz.) fresh mushrooms (sliced) – The star of the soup! Fresh mushrooms will give you the best texture and flavor, but you can also use dried if needed.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – To thicken the soup and create a creamy consistency.
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth – This will be the base of the soup and add depth.
- 1 cup heavy cream – For that luxurious, creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup long-grain white rice (or any rice of your choice) – The rice will absorb all the soup’s flavors, making each spoonful more satisfying.
- Salt and pepper to taste – To season the soup and balance the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – A classic herb that complements mushrooms perfectly.
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) – For a pop of color and freshness at the end.
Cooking Instructions
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Prep The Ingredients
- Start by washing and slicing your mushrooms. Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic. Having everything prepped will make the cooking process smoother.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they become soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
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Cook The Mushrooms
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot. Sauté them for 7-10 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to brown slightly. This step will enhance the mushrooms’ flavor.
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Make The Roux
- Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and onions. Stir constantly to make sure the flour absorbs the butter and juices from the mushrooms. Cook for 2-3 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.
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Add Broth And Rice
- Gradually pour in the broth, stirring to incorporate everything. Add the rice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the broth.
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Stir In The Cream
- Once the rice is cooked, pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine, and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
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Adjust The Seasoning
- Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or thyme if you like. If you want a thicker soup, you can let it simmer longer, but keep an eye on it to avoid the rice overcooking.
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Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Ingredient Insights
Understanding the key ingredients in this dish will help you appreciate the depth of flavors that come together in every spoonful.
- Mushrooms: The type of mushrooms you use can affect the overall flavor. Button mushrooms are the most commonly used, but you can also try cremini, shiitake, or even portobello for a richer, earthier flavor.
- Heavy Cream: This is what gives the soup that silky smooth, luxurious texture. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half or even a dairy-free option like coconut cream, though this will alter the flavor a bit.
- Rice: Long-grain white rice is ideal for this soup because it holds its shape and doesn’t become mushy. However, you can experiment with other varieties like basmati or jasmine rice for a different fragrance and texture.
Expert Tips
- For a Richer Flavor: Try adding a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of soy sauce when cooking the mushrooms. This will bring a new layer of depth and umami to the dish.
- Make it Vegetarian or Vegan: If you want a vegetarian or vegan version, simply swap the butter for olive oil or coconut oil, use vegetable broth, and substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
- Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can purée part of the soup once the rice is fully cooked. Use an immersion blender to blend it in the pot, or take a portion of the soup and blend it in a regular blender before returning it to the pot.
- Make Ahead: This soup actually tastes better the next day, as the flavors have more time to develop. It’s a perfect make-ahead dish for meal prepping or preparing for a busy week.
Recipe Variations
- Add Protein: For an extra boost of protein, you can add some cooked chicken, turkey, or even tofu. Simply shred or cube the protein and stir it in once the soup is finished cooking.
- Cheese Lovers: Stir in some grated parmesan or cheddar towards the end for an extra creamy, cheesy twist.
- Herb Variations: If thyme isn’t your favorite, try rosemary, sage, or oregano for a slightly different flavor profile. Fresh herbs can be added during the simmering process for more intensity.
- Add Vegetables: Want to pack in more veggies? You can add spinach, kale, or peas to the soup near the end of cooking. These will add color, texture, and extra nutrients.
Final Words
Making a homemade Cream of Mushroom Soup with Rice is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy a dish that feels both comforting and elevated. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity-it’s straightforward to prepare yet delivers a depth of flavor that makes it feel special. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you can create a soup that’s both nourishing and indulgent.
From the earthy mushrooms to the creamy broth and tender rice, every bite is a warm embrace. And the best part? You can customize this recipe in countless ways to suit your personal tastes. Whether you like it with extra herbs, a dash of cheese, or a protein boost, this dish is easy to tweak to perfection.