Campbell’s Mushroom Soup is one of those comfort foods that instantly takes you back to childhood, or perhaps to a cozy evening with family. Its smooth, velvety texture and rich, earthy flavor have made it a staple in kitchens for generations. But what makes Campbell’s Mushroom Soup special isn’t just its taste-it’s how versatile it is, serving as both a meal and a cooking base in countless recipes.
When you hear “mushroom soup”, the first thing that likely pops into your mind is the iconic can of Campbell’s. It’s that creamy, comforting blend that’s been a pantry essential for years. However, if you’re someone who enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, you might be curious about how to recreate or elevate this famous soup from scratch. Whether you want to make a homemade version or simply explore different twists on the classic, this guide will provide all the details you need to master the art of mushroom soup.
So, let’s dive in and explore the wonderful world of Campbell Mushroom Soup, the ingredients that make it so special, and how you can take it to the next level in your own kitchen.
Campbell Mushroom Soup Recipe
This homemade version of Campbell’s Mushroom Soup is rich, creamy, and just the right amount of comforting. With a balance of savory mushrooms, fresh herbs, and a silky smooth broth, it mirrors the store-bought version but with a fresh, homemade twist.
Ingredients Needed
- Fresh Mushrooms (about 2 cups) – You can use any variety, but cremini, white button, or shiitake mushrooms are popular choices.
- Butter (2 tablespoons) – Adds richness and helps sauté the mushrooms.
- Onion (1 small, diced) – A small onion adds sweetness and depth to the base of the soup.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Fresh garlic adds a fragrant note.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons) – This helps thicken the soup and creates that creamy texture.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth (3 cups) – Broth is key for adding depth. Chicken broth brings a bit more flavor, but vegetable broth works great for a lighter, vegetarian version.
- Milk or Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Milk provides creaminess, while heavy cream will make it richer and more decadent.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Season to your preference for the best flavor.
Cooking Instructions
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Sauté The Vegetables
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
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Cook The Mushrooms
- Toss the sliced mushrooms into the pot and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 8-10 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and get that golden color.
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Make The Roux
- Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir it in to make a roux. This will help thicken the soup. Cook the mixture for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
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Add The Broth
- Gradually pour in the broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken and the flavors to meld.
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Finish The Soup
- Lower the heat and slowly stir in the milk or heavy cream. Continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes until the soup reaches your desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
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Serve
- Once your soup has thickened and is creamy, ladle it into bowls and serve hot. For added richness, you can garnish with fresh parsley or a drizzle of cream.
Ingredient Insights
To truly understand what makes this soup a fan favorite, let’s break down the key ingredients that play a big part in its success:
- Mushrooms: Mushrooms are the star of this soup, and their umami flavor is what brings it all together. Their natural earthiness gives the soup depth. While white button mushrooms are classic, you can experiment with other types like cremini or portobello for a richer taste.
- Butter: The butter isn’t just for flavor; it helps sauté the mushrooms and forms the base for the soup’s roux. This is what gives the soup that smooth, creamy texture.
- Flour: The flour helps thicken the soup, ensuring it has that velvety, luxurious mouthfeel that we associate with creamy mushroom soup. It also prevents the broth from being too runny.
- Broth (Chicken or Vegetable): The broth provides the foundational flavor and depth. Chicken broth is richer, while vegetable broth gives a lighter, fresher taste that lets the mushrooms shine.
- Milk or Heavy Cream: The milk or cream makes the soup creamy and indulgent. If you want a lighter version, milk will suffice, but heavy cream will make it feel more luxurious and filling.
Expert Tips
- For a Velvety Smooth Texture: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup if you like a completely smooth texture. Blend to your desired consistency, or leave some chunks of mushroom for extra texture.
- For Extra Depth of Flavor: Try adding a splash of white wine or a dash of soy sauce while sautéing the mushrooms to boost the umami flavor. You can also throw in a few sprigs of thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
- Balance Creaminess: If you find the soup too thick, you can adjust it with a little more broth or milk. The creaminess can also be adjusted by controlling how much heavy cream you add.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Adding a handful of fresh herbs, such as thyme, parsley, or chives, right before serving can give your soup an extra burst of flavor.
Recipe Variations
Sometimes, variety is the spice of life! Here are some ways you can tweak this Campbell Mushroom Soup recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
- Vegan Mushroom Soup: Swap out the butter for olive oil and use vegetable broth. Instead of milk or heavy cream, you can substitute coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version.
- Mushroom and Chicken Soup: Add shredded rotisserie chicken to make the soup more hearty and filling. This is perfect for those cold nights when you want something more substantial.
- Mushroom Soup with Bacon: Fry up a few slices of bacon and crumble it on top of your soup for an added smoky crunch. Bacon pairs wonderfully with mushrooms, creating a deeper flavor profile.
- Spicy Mushroom Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped fresh chili peppers to give the soup a spicy kick. This can be a great variation if you love a little heat in your meals.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup with Cheese: For a cheesy twist, stir in some grated parmesan or cheddar cheese right before serving. The cheese melts into the soup, creating an even creamier and more indulgent texture.
Final Words
There’s something truly magical about a bowl of homemade mushroom soup. Whether you’re trying to recreate that iconic Campbell’s flavor from scratch or you’re looking for a new spin, the options are endless. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility-it can be made to suit almost any palate or dietary need, and you can add your own twist to make it your own.