Creamy Mushroom Soup with Melted Cheese and Toast

Creamy Mushroom Soup with Melted Cheese and Toast is a rich, comforting dish that combines earthy mushrooms, fragrant herbs, and velvety cream, topped with golden, melted cheese and served with crispy toast. It’s a cozy, satisfying meal perfect for chilly days or elegant starters.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Comforting: Deep mushroom flavor with creamy texture and cheesy indulgence.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh produce.
• Versatile Serving: Great as a main course or appetizer.
• Elegant Yet Easy: Impressive enough for guests, but quick enough for weeknights.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh mushrooms (such as cremini, button, or a mix)
• Onion (chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Unsalted butter
• Olive oil
• All-purpose flour
• Vegetable or chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh thyme or parsley
• Grated cheese (Gruyère, Swiss, or cheddar)
• Slices of crusty bread (baguette or country loaf)

Directions

1. Prepare the Mushrooms: Clean and slice mushrooms. In a large pot, heat butter and oil, then sauté onions and garlic until soft.
2. Cook the Mushrooms: Add mushrooms and cook until browned and reduced in size, about 8–10 minutes.
3. Make the Roux: Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture and stir for 1–2 minutes to cook the flour.
4. Add Liquid: Slowly pour in broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Blend and Cream: Use an immersion blender for a smooth soup, or leave chunky if preferred. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Simmer another 5 minutes.
6. Prepare Toasts: While soup simmers, toast bread slices under a broiler with grated cheese on top until melted and golden.
7. Serve: Ladle soup into bowls and top with cheesy toast or serve the toast on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Stir in shredded chicken or crumbled bacon for a heartier meal.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter, coconut milk, and vegan cheese.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for warmth.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze soup without cream and cheese for up to 1 month. Add cream after reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring often.

FAQs

What type of mushrooms work best?

A mix of cremini, button, and shiitake mushrooms offers the best flavor depth.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well. Prepare the soup a day in advance and reheat before serving.

Do I need to blend the soup?

No, it can be served chunky, but blending offers a smoother, more luxurious texture.

What cheese is best for the toast?

Gruyère melts beautifully, but cheddar or Swiss also pair well with the earthy soup.

How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

Add cream at the end and simmer gently; avoid boiling once cream is added.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickener and gluten-free bread for the toast.

What can I use instead of cream?

Full-fat milk or a mix of milk and sour cream can work as lighter alternatives.

Can I use dried mushrooms?

Yes, rehydrate dried mushrooms in warm water and add with fresh mushrooms for intense flavor.

How do I make the toast extra crispy?

Use a broiler and toast the bread until golden before adding cheese to finish.

Can I add wine to the soup?

Yes, a splash of dry white wine added after sautéing mushrooms enhances the flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy Mushroom Soup with Melted Cheese and Toast is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings together rich textures and savory ingredients in every spoonful. Whether served as a starter or a main, this soup is sure to warm the soul and satisfy any appetite with its depth of flavor and delightful presentation.

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