Creamy French Onion and Mushroom Soup.

Everything you love about a warming, cheesy bowl of French onion soup is here in this Creamy French Onion and Mushroom Soup. This delightful dish combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions and earthy mushrooms, topped with gooey cheese and crunchy bread, making it perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, this soup will surely impress with its depth of flavor and creamy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of caramelized onions and sautéed mushrooms creates a deeply satisfying taste that warms the soul.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a simple weeknight meal, this soup is versatile enough to fit any setting.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this comforting dish without breaking a sweat.
• Comforting Texture: The creamy finish and cheesy topping make each bite indulgently smooth and satisfying.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or substitute ingredients based on what’s in your pantry!

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Creamy French Onion and Mushroom Soup, gather your tools and get ready for some delicious cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Baking sheet
• Oven-safe bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven: Ideal for even heat distribution, ensuring your onions caramelize perfectly.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware, helping to mix ingredients thoroughly.
• Baking sheet: Essential for toasting the bread evenly before broiling your cheese-topped soup.
• Oven-safe bowls: Perfect for serving your soup hot from the oven while holding all the delicious toppings.

Ingredients

Everything you love about a warming, cheesy bowl of French onion soup…but better!

For the Soup Base

• 6 tablespoons salted butter
• 4 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1 1/4 cups dry white apple vinegar, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
• 3 cloves garlic, minced or grated
• 2 cups cremini or wild mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
• 1 teaspoon honey

For the Broth

• 6-8 cups low sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce (or soy sauce)
• 2 bay leaves
• Kosher salt and black pepper

For the Topping

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 6 slices French bread
• 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese

How to Make Creamy French Onion and Mushroom Soup

Step 1: Sauté Onions

1. Melt together the butter, onions, and honey in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Cook while stirring occasionally until softened, about 10 minutes.
3. Slowly add 3/4 cup of apple vinegar (1/4 cup at a time) until it cooks into the onions.
4. Continue cooking for another 10–15 minutes until onions are deeply caramelized.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Mushrooms

1. Add garlic, mushrooms, thyme, and sage to the pot.
2. Season with salt and pepper; cook for another 3–4 minutes.
3. Pour in the remaining 1/2 cup apple vinegar along with broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
4. Increase heat to medium-high; return soup to a simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Stir in Cream

1. Stir in heavy cream; continue cooking for an additional 5–10 minutes.
2. Remove bay leaves from the pot; discard them.
3. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Toast Bread

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2. Arrange bread slices on a baking sheet; toast for 10–15 minutes until very dry.
3. Switch oven setting to broil.

Step 5: Assemble Soup Bowls

1. Ladle hot soup into oven-safe bowls.
2. Place one slice of toasted bread on top of each bowl.
3. Generously sprinkle Gruyère cheese over each slice.

Step 6: Broil Until Golden Brown

1. Place each bowl on a baking sheet; transfer to the oven under broiler.
2. Broil until bubbly and golden brown (about 3–5 minutes).
3. Top with fresh thyme before serving hot! Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy French Onion and Mushroom Soup.

Serving Creamy French Onion and Mushroom Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that pair perfectly with this rich and comforting dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Top your soup with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley for an aromatic touch.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Offer slices of crusty baguette or sourdough on the side for dipping into the soup.

Add a Side Salad

• A light mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup.

Include a Cheese Platter

• Present a small cheese platter with various cheeses that complement the flavors of the soup, like sharp cheddar or creamy brie.

Pair with Wine

• A glass of dry white wine enhances the flavors, making your meal feel more gourmet.

Create a Soup Bar

• Set up a soup bar where guests can add their toppings, such as extra cheese, croutons, or caramelized onions.

How to Perfect Creamy French Onion and Mushroom Soup.

Perfecting your Creamy French Onion and Mushroom Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is top-notch.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions and mushrooms enhance flavor significantly. Choose high-quality ingredients for better taste.

• Caramelize Slowly: Take your time when caramelizing onions. The longer they cook, the deeper and sweeter their flavor will be.

• Adjust Seasonings: Taste frequently! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs as you cook to find the perfect balance.

• Choose Quality Broth: A good quality low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth will enrich your soup’s base without overpowering other flavors.

• Thicken Properly: If you prefer a thicker consistency, let it simmer longer without the lid to reduce excess liquid.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy French Onion and Mushroom Soup.

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy French Onion and Mushroom Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread

2. Crispy garlic bread complements the soup’s richness while adding an extra layer of flavor.

3. Caesar Salad

4. This classic salad provides crunch and tang that balances the creamy texture of the soup.

5. Roasted Vegetables

6. Roasting seasonal vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, making them a great contrast to savory soup.

7. Quiche Lorraine

8. A slice of quiche adds protein and makes for a hearty addition to your meal.

9. Stuffed Mushrooms

10. These bite-sized treats echo the mushroom flavor in your soup while providing delightful textures.

11. Potato Wedges

12. Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs are perfect for dipping into your delicious soup.

13. Cheese Fondue

14. For cheese lovers, serve alongside a warm cheese fondue for an indulgent experience!

15. Antipasto Platter

16. An assortment of cured meats, olives, and marinated vegetables offers variety and enhances flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy French Onion and Mushroom Soup can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the onions – If you cook the onions too quickly, they won’t caramelize properly. Be patient and allow them to soften and turn golden brown.
• Using low-quality broth – The flavor of your soup depends heavily on the broth. Always choose high-quality low sodium chicken or vegetable broth for the best taste.
• Skipping the vinegar – The apple vinegar adds acidity that balances the richness of the soup. Don’t skip it; it enhances the overall flavor.
• Not seasoning enough – Under-seasoning can lead to a bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust with salt and pepper to achieve a well-balanced flavor.
• Ignoring fresh herbs – Dry herbs won’t provide the same depth of flavor as fresh ones. Always use fresh thyme and sage when possible for maximum impact.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Creamy French Onion and Mushroom Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion.

Reheating Creamy French Onion and Mushroom Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until hot.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until steaming hot.
• Stovetop – Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to common questions about making Creamy French Onion and Mushroom Soup.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While Gruyère is traditional, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Swiss or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

You can use dried herbs, but reduce the quantity since dried herbs are more potent. A general rule is to use one-third of the amount.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

Simply replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is vegetarian or omit it.

How long does this soup last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it lasts up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy French Onion and Mushroom Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or using various cheeses based on your preference. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite cozy meal!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Creamy French Onion and Mushroom Soup

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the comforting warmth of Creamy French Onion and Mushroom Soup, a delightful twist on the classic French onion soup. This rich and creamy dish blends the sweet flavor of caramelized onions with earthy mushrooms, creating a savory experience that warms both body and soul. Topped with gooey Gruyère cheese and crunchy toasted bread, it’s perfect for cozy dinners or special gatherings. With straightforward steps and easily customizable ingredients, this soup is sure to impress your guests or provide a satisfying meal for yourself on a chilly evening.

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Ingredients

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• 6 tablespoons salted butter
• 4 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cups cremini or wild mushrooms, sliced
• 1 1/4 cups dry white apple vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6–8 cups low sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
• Fresh thyme and sage

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Instructions

1. In a large Dutch oven, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onions and honey; cook until softened (about 10 minutes).
2. Gradually stir in apple vinegar; continue cooking until onions are deeply caramelized (15 minutes).
3. Add garlic, mushrooms, thyme, and sage; season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour in broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, salt, and pepper; simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream; cook for another 5 minutes. Remove bay leaves.
6. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toast bread slices on a baking sheet until dry (10-15 minutes).
7. Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls; top each with toasted bread and cheese.
8. Broil until bubbly and golden brown (3-5 minutes). Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 370
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 70mg