There are few things more comforting than a rich, savory bowl of soup on a cool day. But while classic favorites like tomato or chicken noodle always hit the spot, it’s fun to mix things up once in a while. Enter the Beefy Mushroom Soup-a delicious and hearty twist on the classic mushroom soup. It’s perfect for those who crave the earthy depth of mushrooms but also enjoy the robust flavor of beef.
What makes this soup so irresistible is its perfect balance of textures and flavors. The tender chunks of beef combined with the creamy, velvety broth, enriched by the earthy taste of mushrooms, create a warming bowl of comfort food. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or need a hearty meal to nourish your body, this beefy mushroom soup is a fantastic choice. And the best part? It’s easy to make and can be adapted in many ways to suit your taste. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this culinary delight!
Beefy Mushroom Soup Recipe
This beefy mushroom soup is perfect for those cold evenings when you need something filling and flavorful. It’s rich, comforting, and packed with a depth of umami from the combination of beef and mushrooms. It’s one of those recipes you can easily adjust to your preference-whether you want it extra creamy, more meaty, or with a bit of spice. Below, we’ll walk through the ingredients and instructions to help you make a bowl of this delicious soup that’s sure to please everyone.
Ingredients Needed
To make the perfect beefy mushroom soup, you’ll need a combination of ingredients that will provide richness, flavor, and texture:
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Beef (Stew Meat Or Ground Beef)
- Why: Tender cuts of beef like stew meat (chuck, round, or brisket) hold up well in soups, creating a savory and juicy base. Ground beef is a quicker option if you want a lighter soup.
- Substitute: You can also use shredded leftover roast beef for a quicker meal.
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Mushrooms
- Why: Mushrooms bring that earthy umami flavor and a meaty texture. A mix of button and cremini mushrooms adds complexity.
- Substitute: You could also go with shiitake, oyster, or portobello mushrooms if you want a more intense mushroom flavor.
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Onion & Garlic
- Why: These form the aromatic base for the soup, adding depth to the flavor and richness to the broth.
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Carrots & Celery
- Why: These vegetables add sweetness, crunch, and freshness to balance the richness of the beef and mushrooms.
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Beef Broth
- Why: The broth is the base of the soup and carries all the flavors. Opt for low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
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Heavy Cream (Optional)
- Why: If you want to make the soup creamy and luxurious, heavy cream is the way to go. It gives the soup a silky texture and a rich flavor.
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Flour Or Cornstarch
- Why: Used to thicken the soup and give it the desired consistency. You can go gluten-free by using cornstarch if necessary.
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Seasonings
- Salt & Pepper – The essentials.
- Thyme, Bay Leaves, and Parsley – Add layers of earthy, herby flavor.
- Paprika or Chili Flakes (optional) – For a mild kick.
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Olive Oil Or Butter
- Why: For sautéing the meat and vegetables, adding richness to the soup.
Cooking Instructions
Making beefy mushroom soup is straightforward, but patience is key to developing those rich, deep flavors. Here’s how to do it:
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Prepare The Ingredients
Start by washing and slicing your mushrooms, chopping the onion, celery, and carrots, and mincing the garlic. If you’re using stew meat, cut it into bite-sized chunks.
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Brown The Beef
In a large soup pot, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the beef and brown it on all sides. This step is crucial for developing flavor. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.
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Sauté The Vegetables
In the same pot, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions are translucent.
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Add The Mushrooms
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook for another 5-7 minutes. The mushrooms will release their liquid and shrink down. Stir occasionally.
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Deglaze The Pot
Pour in a little beef broth and scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to lift up all the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
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Add The Broth & Seasoning
Return the beef to the pot and add the remaining beef broth, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 45 minutes to an hour, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded.
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Thicken The Soup
If you want a thicker soup, whisk together a tablespoon of flour (or cornstarch) with a little water to create a slurry. Slowly add this to the soup and stir until it thickens to your liking.
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Finish With Cream (Optional)
If you’re using heavy cream, stir it in at the end for a rich and creamy texture. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls, and if you like, garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika.
Ingredient Insights
- Beef: Choosing the right cut is critical for flavor and tenderness. Stew meat or chuck roast is perfect for slow-cooked soups, as the collagen in these cuts breaks down during cooking, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture. If you’re using ground beef, look for 85% lean to 15% fat for the best balance.
- Mushrooms: These earthy wonders not only add texture but also enhance the umami profile of your soup. While white mushrooms are mild and sweet, cremini mushrooms (also known as baby bellas) provide a slightly richer flavor. Combining the two gives the soup a fuller, more complex taste.
- Cream: If you’re aiming for a creamy soup, heavy cream is your go-to. However, for a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk, although this will change the texture and flavor somewhat.
Expert Tips
- Sear the Meat: Don’t skip the step of browning the beef. This step adds a depth of flavor to the broth, giving the soup a richer taste.
- Use Homemade Broth: If you have the time, homemade beef broth will elevate your soup. It’s easy to make in a slow cooker or pressure cooker, and it adds a fresh, robust flavor that store-bought versions can’t match.
- Layer Flavors: Don’t rush through the cooking process. Allow time for the flavors to develop by simmering the soup slowly. The longer it simmers, the better the taste.
- Add a Splash of Wine: For extra depth, add a splash of red wine or white wine while sautéing the vegetables. The acidity from the wine will balance the richness of the beef and mushrooms.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary) right before serving can make a world of difference.
Recipe Variations
- Mushroom-Only Version: If you’re not in the mood for beef, skip the meat entirely and make a delicious creamy mushroom soup using just mushrooms and vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Add More Vegetables: Try adding potatoes, parsnips, or even corn for a more filling soup. Potatoes in particular will soak up the broth and become creamy once cooked.
- Spicy Twist: For a kick, add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño. A dash of smoked paprika also adds a nice smoky flavor.
- Noodle Soup: Add some egg noodles or rice to the soup for a heartier meal. These additions will absorb the broth and make the soup even more filling.
Final Words
This beefy mushroom soup is the perfect blend of savory, creamy, and hearty, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. The tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and velvety broth are simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that you can tweak to suit your preferences, whether that means making it creamier, adding different vegetables, or spicing it up. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a comforting meal after a long day, this soup will never disappoint.