Mushroom soup is one of those classic comfort foods that warms you from the inside out. The rich, earthy flavor of mushrooms combined with a creamy base creates a perfect balance that feels like a hug in a bowl. If you’re someone who enjoys cooking but also loves the ease and simplicity of using a slow cooker, then this Mushroom Soup Crock Pot recipe will become your new go-to. The beauty of this recipe lies in its hands-off approach, allowing you to set it and forget it while the slow cooker works its magic.
Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned chef looking for a no-fuss, flavorful dish, this mushroom soup recipe is incredibly forgiving and customizable. And the best part? It requires minimal prep and delivers a rich, creamy soup that tastes like you’ve been stirring it for hours.
Mushroom Soup Crock Pot Recipe
This slow cooker mushroom soup recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or even as an appetizer at your next dinner party. It’s the kind of dish that can be made ahead of time, and the flavors only deepen as it sits. Using your crock pot, you’ll get that slow-simmered, savory mushroom flavor without the need for constant attention. The process is simple, and the results are extraordinary.
Ingredients Needed
For this recipe, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together to create that rich, velvety texture and depth of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- Fresh Mushrooms (about 4 cups) – You can use white button mushrooms, cremini, or a mix of both. Fresh mushrooms give the soup a better texture than canned.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped) – Adds sweetness and a savory foundation for the soup.
- Garlic (3-4 cloves, minced) – Brings a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with mushrooms.
- Vegetable Broth (4 cups) – The base for the soup. You can use chicken broth for a meatier taste, or even a low-sodium variety if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup) – This adds a rich creaminess to the soup and smooths out the texture.
- Butter (2 tbsp) – A little fat helps develop the soup’s savory depth, and it adds to the creamy consistency.
- Flour (2 tbsp) – This helps thicken the soup slightly and gives it that nice velvety texture.
- Thyme (1 tsp, dried or fresh) – A herb that pairs beautifully with mushrooms, providing a subtle earthy note.
- Salt and Pepper – Seasoning to taste. You can add more or less depending on your preference.
- Bay Leaf (1) – Adds an aromatic layer of flavor.
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s walk through how easy this mushroom soup comes together. The beauty of using a slow cooker is that you don’t have to hover over the stove-just prep and go.
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Prepare The Mushrooms And Vegetables
- Begin by cleaning and slicing the mushrooms. You can slice them thick or thin depending on your texture preference. Chop the onion and garlic as well.
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Saute The Aromatics
- In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook them until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step helps develop a deep, savory base for the soup.
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Combine Everything In The Crock Pot
- Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic into the crock pot. Add the mushrooms, vegetable broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir everything together, and add salt and pepper to taste.
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Set The Crock Pot
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, depending on your schedule. The mushrooms will cook down and become incredibly tender, and the broth will take on that rich mushroom flavor.
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Finish With Cream
- About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the heavy cream and flour. This will help thicken the soup and give it that luxurious creaminess. Let it cook for the final 30 minutes on low.
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Blend (Optional)
- If you prefer a smooth soup, use an immersion blender directly in the crock pot. Alternatively, you can transfer half of the soup into a regular blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot for a silky texture.
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Serve And Enjoy
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, a drizzle of cream, or even some crispy croutons for a crunchy contrast.
Ingredient Insights
- Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms are the heart of this dish, and their flavor deepens as they cook slowly in the crock pot. Cremini mushrooms tend to be more flavorful than white button mushrooms, but you can experiment with other varieties like shiitake or portobello for even more complexity.
- Heavy Cream: While you could opt for a lighter cream or half-and-half, heavy cream is what gives the soup its luxurious texture. It helps thicken the soup and makes it feel more decadent.
- Herbs and Spices: Thyme is a classic herb to pair with mushrooms, but feel free to experiment with rosemary, sage, or even a sprinkle of nutmeg for a different twist. The bay leaf imparts a subtle herbal note that enhances the richness of the soup.
- Broth: The type of broth you use will greatly affect the flavor of your soup. Vegetable broth gives a light base, while chicken broth brings a savory depth. If you’re looking to control the sodium levels, make sure to opt for a low-sodium version.
Expert Tips
- Searing the Mushrooms: If you want to deepen the flavor, consider searing the mushrooms in a hot pan with a little butter before adding them to the slow cooker. This step caramelizes the mushrooms and brings out a richer taste.
- Don’t Skip the Flour: The flour is essential for thickening the soup. If you want a gluten-free version, you can substitute it with cornstarch or arrowroot powder.
- Adjusting Consistency: If your soup turns out thicker than you like, simply add a bit more broth or water to loosen it. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it cook uncovered for a bit to reduce.
- Storage: This soup stores wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re making it ahead, just reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream to maintain that smooth texture.
Recipe Variations
This mushroom soup is incredibly versatile, and there are plenty of ways to make it your own. Here are a few variations to try:
- Vegan Mushroom Soup: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. Vegan butter or olive oil can replace the regular butter.
- Mushroom and Potato Soup: Add diced potatoes to the crock pot for a heartier soup. They’ll break down and thicken the broth, adding extra creaminess without the need for as much flour.
- Mushroom Soup with Truffle Oil: For a gourmet twist, finish the soup with a drizzle of truffle oil before serving. The earthy, luxurious flavor of truffle oil elevates the soup to a whole new level.
- Mushroom Soup with Gravy: If you want a more savory, rich flavor, add a tablespoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to deepen the umami taste.
- Herb Variations: While thyme is the traditional herb used in mushroom soup, you can experiment with other herbs like rosemary, sage, or oregano for a unique flavor profile.
Final Words
Mushroom soup made in a slow cooker isn’t just easy-it’s incredibly satisfying. The depth of flavor that develops over hours of cooking is something you just can’t rush. And the convenience of being able to set it and forget it is perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a delicious meal without much effort.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For A Mushroom Soup Crock Pot Recipe?
For a basic mushroom soup crock pot recipe, you’ll need fresh mushrooms (about 1 pound), onions, garlic, vegetable or chicken broth, heavy cream or milk, butter, thyme, salt, pepper, and optional additions like carrots, celery, or parsley.
Can I Use Dried Mushrooms In My Crock Pot Mushroom Soup?
Yes, you can use dried mushrooms, but you’ll need to rehydrate them before adding them to the crock pot. Soak them in warm water for 20-30 minutes, then chop and add them to the soup along with their soaking liquid for extra flavor.
How Long Should I Cook Mushroom Soup In A Crock Pot?
Mushroom soup typically takes 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in a crock pot. The exact time may vary depending on the specific model of your crock pot and how tender you want the mushrooms.
Can I Make Mushroom Soup In A Slow Cooker Without Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can replace heavy cream with milk, half-and-half, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or almond milk. The consistency will be slightly different, but the soup will still be flavorful.
What Types Of Mushrooms Are Best For A Crock Pot Mushroom Soup?
Commonly used mushrooms in mushroom soup include cremini, white button, shiitake, and portobello mushrooms. A mix of these varieties adds depth of flavor and texture to the soup.
Can I Add Meat To The Mushroom Soup In The Crock Pot?
Yes, you can add meats like chicken, sausage, or bacon to the mushroom soup for extra flavor. If using chicken, shred it after cooking for a heartier texture. Bacon or sausage can be cooked separately and stirred in at the end.
How Do I Make The Mushroom Soup Thicker?
To thicken your mushroom soup, you can blend part of the soup with an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth. Alternatively, you can add a slurry of flour or cornstarch mixed with water and cook for an additional 30 minutes to thicken.
Can I Use Frozen Mushrooms In A Crock Pot Mushroom Soup Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen mushrooms, but keep in mind that they may release more water during cooking. It’s a good idea to sauté them briefly in a pan to reduce excess moisture before adding them to the crock pot.
Should I Sauté The Mushrooms Before Adding Them To The Crock Pot?
Sautéing the mushrooms is optional, but it enhances their flavor by caramelizing them. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and simply add the raw mushrooms directly to the crock pot.
Can I Prepare Mushroom Soup In Advance And Store It In The Fridge?
Yes, mushroom soup can be prepared in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat it thoroughly before serving.