There’s nothing quite as comforting on a chilly day as a warm bowl of cream of mushroom soup. But if you’re vegetarian, store-bought versions can often contain hidden animal-based ingredients like chicken broth or cream.
The good news? Making a rich, creamy, and utterly delicious vegetarian cream of mushroom soup right at home is easier than you think.
Packed with umami flavor from fresh mushrooms and a velvety plant-based creaminess, this soup will satisfy your cravings without compromising your dietary preferences.
In this blog post, you’ll find not just one, but several vegetarian recipes for cream of mushroom soup that cater to different tastes and nutritional needs. Whether you prefer a classic creamy texture, a dairy-free version, or a hearty soup with added veggies, we’ve got you covered.
Plus, we’ll share handy tips, variations, and serving ideas to make this soup your new weeknight favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cream of mushroom soup is a versatile classic, and our vegetarian recipes make it accessible to everyone. Here’s why these recipes stand out:
- Rich, creamy texture without using heavy cream or animal products.
- Deep, earthy flavor from a well-balanced mix of fresh mushrooms and herbs.
- Simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.
- Multiple variations to fit your dietary needs, including vegan and gluten-free options.
- Perfect for meal prep and freezes well for those busy days.
These recipes will not only warm you up but also impress family and friends with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 500g fresh mushrooms (button, cremini, or a mix), sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or vegan butter
- 4 cups vegetable broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 cup plant-based milk (unsweetened almond, oat, or soy milk)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour (optional for thickening)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for umami boost)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Equipment
- Large sauté pan or skillet
- Medium-sized saucepan or pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Blender or immersion blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
- Ladle for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the mushrooms: Clean the mushrooms gently with a damp cloth and slice them evenly.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil or vegan butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and become golden brown.
- Add thyme and soy sauce: Sprinkle thyme and drizzle soy sauce over the mushrooms. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes to deepen the flavors.
- Create the roux (optional): If you want a thicker soup, sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Pour in the broth: Slowly add the vegetable broth, stirring constantly to combine with the roux and mushroom mixture. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add plant-based milk: Stir in the plant-based milk and heat through, but do not boil, to keep the milk from curdling.
- Blend the soup: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer half the soup to a blender and blend until creamy. For a chunkier texture, only blend half and mix back in.
- Season to taste: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy warm!
Tips & Variations
“For the creamiest texture, try blending with a splash of cashew cream or coconut milk instead of plant-based milk.”
- Vegan option: Use plant-based butter and milk; skip the roux or use gluten-free flour to keep it gluten-free.
- Make it heartier: Add diced potatoes, carrots, or celery to the initial sauté for a chunky vegetable mushroom soup.
- Boost umami: Incorporate a teaspoon of nutritional yeast or miso paste during cooking for extra depth.
- Herb variations: Swap thyme for rosemary or sage depending on your preference.
- Low calorie: Use water instead of broth and skip the flour; blend extra mushrooms for thickness.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 cup) |
---|---|
Calories | 120 |
Protein | 4g |
Fat | 7g |
Carbohydrates | 11g |
Fiber | 2g |
Sodium | 350mg |
Note: Nutrition varies depending on the plant milk and broth used.
Serving Suggestions
This cream of mushroom soup is perfect as a starter or a light meal. Serve it with warm crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh side salad.
For a cozy dinner, pair the soup with a grilled cheese sandwich made with your favorite vegetarian cheese.
Looking for more delicious vegetarian recipes? Check out our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a sweet treat after your soup, or try some Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners to keep the creamy theme going.
Additional Cream of Mushroom Soup Vegetarian Recipes
Vegan Cream of Mushroom Soup with Cashew Cream
- Replace plant milk with ½ cup soaked cashews blended into a smooth cream for a richer texture.
- Add a splash of white wine while sautéing mushrooms for an elegant flavor layer.
- Use coconut oil instead of olive oil for a subtle tropical undertone.
Chunky Mushroom and Barley Soup
- Include ½ cup cooked pearl barley for chewy texture and extra fiber.
- Add diced carrots and celery along with onions for a classic mirepoix base.
- Skip blending; serve as a hearty stew perfect for cold days.
Gluten-Free Cream of Mushroom Soup
- Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickener.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce for gluten-free umami.
- Top with toasted pumpkin seeds or crushed nuts for added crunch.
- Include ½ cup cooked pearl barley for chewy texture and extra fiber.
- Add diced carrots and celery along with onions for a classic mirepoix base.
- Skip blending; serve as a hearty stew perfect for cold days.
Gluten-Free Cream of Mushroom Soup
- Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickener.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce for gluten-free umami.
- Top with toasted pumpkin seeds or crushed nuts for added crunch.
For more inspiration on wholesome vegetarian meals, explore our Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals and Slow Cooker Vegetarian Recipes Easy and Delicious Ideas.
Conclusion
Making your own vegetarian cream of mushroom soup is a rewarding kitchen experience that yields a deliciously comforting dish perfect for any season. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can adjust the recipe to suit your taste, dietary needs, and available ingredients.
Whether you prefer it silky smooth, chunky, or enriched with nuts and herbs, this soup is a versatile staple that elevates your meal while staying wholesome and vegetarian-friendly.
Try these recipes and variations, and you’ll never look back at canned soups again. Plus, the leftovers reheat beautifully, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Don’t forget to explore our other vegetarian recipes for a full menu of flavorful, healthy meals that delight your palate and nourish your body.
📖 Recipe Card: Cream of Mushroom Soup (Vegetarian)
Description: A rich and creamy mushroom soup made with fresh mushrooms and a blend of herbs. Perfect as a comforting starter or light meal.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 500 grams fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook until soft.
- Sprinkle flour over mushrooms and stir well.
- Pour in vegetable broth gradually, stirring constantly.
- Add thyme, salt, and pepper; simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and blend soup until smooth.
- Return soup to pot and stir in cream.
- Heat gently without boiling, then adjust seasoning.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 12 g
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