Description
This Creamy Mushroom Pasta Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines sautéed mushrooms, aromatic onions and garlic, tender pasta, and a rich creamy broth. Perfect for a cozy meal, it blends the earthiness of mushrooms with the silky texture of cream and Parmesan cheese, making it a delightful soup to warm you up on chilly days.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 oz mushrooms (cremini, button, or mixed), sliced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 tsp thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini, orzo, or elbows)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute to release their fragrance.
- Cook Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot. Cook them for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are nicely browned and most of their liquid has evaporated, intensifying the mushroom flavor.
- Add Broth & Seasonings: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, then add thyme or Italian seasoning along with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil to meld the flavors.
- Add Pasta: Stir in the small pasta of your choice. Cook according to the package directions, usually 8–10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente and tender but still slightly firm.
- Make it Creamy: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half along with the grated Parmesan cheese if using. Let the soup simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately with crusty bread to enjoy a hearty and soothing meal.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Use vegetable broth to keep the soup vegetarian, or chicken broth if preferred.
- If you want a thicker soup, reduce the broth slightly before adding cream.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor and creaminess.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or chives enhance the final presentation and add freshness.
