Print

Creamy French Onion and Mushroom Soup

Creamy French Onion and Mushroom Soup

Creamy French Onion and Mushroom Soup is a comforting, velvety blend of sweet caramelized onions and earthy mushrooms simmered in a savory broth, finished with a silky creaminess. This elegant yet simple soup delivers rich umami flavors with a smooth texture, making it perfect for cozy dinners and year-round enjoyment.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 23 fresh thyme sprigs
  • 6 cups beef or vegetable broth
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • Gruyère cheese for topping

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions: Thinly slice yellow onions and cook slowly in butter and olive oil over medium-low heat for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally until onions are soft, golden, and deeply caramelized.
  2. Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same pot or a separate pan, add more butter and sauté the cleaned and sliced mushrooms over medium heat until tender with golden edges, releasing their moisture.
  3. Combine and Add Broth: Return caramelized onions to the pot with mushrooms, add broth and fresh thyme sprigs. Simmer gently for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld flavors.
  4. Blend to Creamy Perfection: Remove thyme sprigs and purée the soup using an immersion blender until mostly smooth with slight texture; alternatively, blend in batches carefully with a regular blender.
  5. Add the Cream and Final Seasoning: Stir in heavy cream or substitute, add a splash of balsamic vinegar, then season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Heat gently without boiling to maintain creaminess.

Notes

  • Slow caramelization of onions is key for deep flavor.
  • Pat mushrooms dry before sautéing to ensure proper browning.
  • Use fresh herbs for the best flavor; reduce quantity if using dried.
  • Taste frequently to adjust salt and acidity for balanced flavor.
  • Do not over-blend; leave some mushroom texture for an interesting bite.

Nutrition

Keywords: French onion soup, mushroom soup, creamy soup, caramelized onions, comfort food, vegetarian soup, gluten free