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.
- Author: Maria
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2–3 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
Keywords: French onion soup, mushroom soup, creamy soup, caramelized onions, comfort food, vegetarian soup, gluten free