There’s something incredibly cozy and comforting about a bowl of soup that’s both rich and fresh, and my Creamy Mushroom Soup with Yogurt Recipe fits the bill perfectly. With its velvety texture and tangy yogurt twist, it’s a lovely way to enjoy mushrooms that feels special yet surprisingly easy to make.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
I’ve made a lot of mushroom soups over the years, but this version with yogurt is a game-changer. It’s not just creamy and flavorful—it balances richness with a pleasant tang that keeps things interesting. I’m excited to share this with you because it’s genuinely easy to prepare but feels homemade and indulgent.
- Deep, Authentic Flavor: Caramelizing part of the mushrooms gives the soup a rich, savory base that feels restaurant-worthy.
- Bright Tang from Yogurt: Adding Greek yogurt adds creaminess with a subtle zing, making it lighter and more refreshing than typical cream-based soups.
- Flexible and Approachable: The recipe steps are straightforward, and you can easily customize it with herbs or swaps to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether as a weeknight dinner starter or a cozy lunch treat, this soup never disappoints.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Each ingredient in this Creamy Mushroom Soup with Yogurt Recipe plays a role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the earthy cremini mushrooms to the fresh thyme and the touch of Worcestershire, there’s a logic to this blend that you’ll appreciate once you taste it. Here’s why I choose these ingredients:
- Cremini Mushrooms: I prefer these for their deep, earthy flavor and meaty texture; slicing some thin and chopping the rest gives the soup a mix of texture and creaminess.
- Carrots, Celery & Yellow Onion: Together they make a classic mirepoix base which subtly sweetens and adds body to the soup.
- Garlic: Just a little punch of pungency that rounds out the earthiness beautifully.
- Unsalted Butter & Olive Oil: Combining these fats helps with browning and flavor without burning the mushrooms.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami depth that’s hard to put into words but you’ll notice if you leave it out!
- Fresh Thyme: The herbal freshness complements mushrooms perfectly — dried is fine if fresh isn’t handy.
- Paprika, Dried Dill, Oregano, Pepper & Red Pepper Flakes: These spices layer subtle warmth and complexity without overwhelming the soup.
- Flour: Creates a light roux to thicken the soup while still keeping it silky.
- Beef Bouillon & Chicken Broth: The bouillon intensifies the savory flavor, while chicken broth provides a lighter base compared to heavier stocks.
- Milk & Greek Yogurt (or Sour Cream): The milk adds extra creaminess, and the yogurt gives a lovely tang plus richness without heaviness.
- Balsamic Vinegar & Lemon Juice: A little acidity brightens the entire bowl ensuring it never tastes flat.
- Fresh Parsley or Chives: For a fresh, herbal finish that also makes it look beautiful.
Make It Your Way
What I love about this Creamy Mushroom Soup with Yogurt Recipe is how easy it is to tailor. Sometimes I swap fresh rosemary for thyme, or add a handful of sautéed spinach just before serving. Feel free to get creative—you’ll find your own favorite way to make it yours.
- Variation: When I want a vegan version, I replace butter with olive oil and use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt — it tastes surprisingly satisfying!
- Spicy Kick: Adding a pinch more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can give it a warming edge if you’re into bolder flavors.
- Seasonal Boost: In fall, I toss in a few roasted chestnuts or a sprinkle of nutmeg for extra autumn vibes.
- Texture Play: Leaving some mushrooms in larger chunks gives a delightful chew, perfect when you want a little more bite.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Mushroom Soup with Yogurt Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Mushrooms and Mirepoix
Start by slicing about a third of your cremini mushrooms into thin slices—this part caramelizes later for that golden, flavor-packed layer. Roughly chop the rest of the mushrooms plus your carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. I like to use the food processor here because it saves time and creates a nice coarse chop that blends well later, but hand-chopping works perfectly fine too.
Step 2: Caramelize Those Sliced Mushrooms
Heat 2 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot. Spread your sliced mushrooms evenly—don’t stir them yet! Let them cook undisturbed until the bottom turns richly golden brown, then flip to repeat. This step builds your soup’s backbone flavor. Add Worcestershire sauce and a pinch of salt, give everything a stir, and transfer to a bowl. I always remind myself not to rush this; the caramelization really pays off.
Step 3: Sauté the Remaining Mushrooms and Mirepoix
Lower the heat to medium, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon olive oil, and add the chopped mushrooms plus your chopped veggie mix. Sauté for about 10 minutes or until tender, stirring frequently but gently. These mushrooms won’t brown like the sliced ones, but their flavor softens and melds perfectly with the veggies.
Step 4: Build a Flavorful Roux and Simmer
Sprinkle in the flour and your spices—paprika, dill, oregano, pepper, and red pepper flakes—and cook this mixture for about a minute. Then stir in the beef bouillon and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pot bottom. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to a gentle simmer (leave it uncovered), and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This gives the soup a nice body and depth.
Step 5: Puree the Soup Smoothly and Safely
Remove half the soup in two small batches to a blender, filling it no more than one-third full to avoid spills or pressure build-up. I learned the hard way that leaving the blender lid tightly closed here can cause an explosion—so I always leave the cap off and cover it with a kitchen towel. Blend until silky smooth, then return to the pot.
Step 6: Add Milk, Yogurt, and Finish with Caramelized Mushrooms
Stir in the milk until well combined, then gently whisk in the Greek yogurt (or sour cream) until smooth—this will make your soup luxuriously creamy but with that signature tang. Finally, add back in the caramelized sliced mushrooms and warm everything through over low heat for about 5 minutes.
Step 7: Brighten Things Up and Garnish
Add in the balsamic vinegar and lemon juice, and salt to taste. These acids keep the soup lively and balanced, enhancing the mushroom flavors instead of weighing them down. I always finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for color and that fresh herbal note that shines in every spoonful.
Top Tip
Through experimenting with this Creamy Mushroom Soup with Yogurt Recipe, I realized that patience and layering flavors truly make the difference. The caramelization and the yogurt addition change everything. Here’s what helped me get it just right every time:
- Mushroom Browning is Key: Don’t rush the caramelization step; letting the mushrooms brown well gives unmatched depth and umami.
- Yogurt at Room Temp: Set your yogurt out to warm up before adding it—it blends smoothly without curdling and keeps the soup velvety.
- Blend in Batches: Always blend in small portions with the lid slightly open for safety—it prevents splatters and accidents.
- Adjust Acidity Last: Adding vinegar and lemon juice at the end preserves their brightness without overpowering the soup.
How to Serve Creamy Mushroom Soup with Yogurt Recipe
Garnishes
I love topping this soup with freshly chopped parsley or chives because the green freshness adds contrast both visually and in flavor. Sometimes, I sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds or lightly fried shallots on top for a crunchy finish that feels fancy and fun.
Side Dishes
To complete the meal, I often serve this mushroom soup alongside crusty artisan bread or garlic toast to soak up the creamy broth. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness nicely. For heartier appetites, a grilled cheese sandwich pairs beautifully too!
Creative Ways to Present
On special occasions, I’ve ladled this soup into rustic bread bowls or served it in pretty porcelain cups for a charming appetizer look. A drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of shaved Parmesan adds a luxurious touch that impresses guests every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
When I have leftovers, I let the soup cool completely, then store it in airtight containers in the fridge. It keeps well for about 3-4 days. Remember to stir well when reheating as the yogurt can settle a bit on the bottom.
Freezing
I usually freeze any extra soup in portion-sized containers. Because of the yogurt, the texture can become a little grainy after thawing, so I prefer to freeze it before adding the yogurt and then stir in fresh yogurt after reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat on the stove, stirring often. If thickened too much, add a splash of milk or broth. For best results, add a dollop of fresh yogurt before serving to restore that creamy tanginess.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Absolutely! While cremini mushrooms give the best balance of flavor and texture for this Creamy Mushroom Soup with Yogurt Recipe, you can substitute or mix in button, shiitake, or even portobello mushrooms for different nuances.
No worries—chop the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic by hand as finely as you can. It might take a bit more time, but the soup will still turn out delicious.
Yes! Use olive oil instead of butter, vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and a plant-based yogurt to keep it creamy and tangy. You could even add nutritional yeast for extra umami.
Make sure the yogurt is at room temperature before adding it, and stir it in slowly over low heat. Avoid boiling the soup after adding yogurt to keep it smooth and creamy.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Mushroom Soup with Yogurt Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it feels both nostalgic and fresh at the same time. It’s one of those recipes I turn to when I want to impress without stress, and I hope you’ll feel the same. Take your time with the steps, trust your taste buds, and enjoy the cozy moment with a warm bowl in hand—you deserve that.
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Creamy Mushroom Soup with Yogurt Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich and creamy mushroom soup featuring caramelized cremini mushrooms, sautéed mirepoix, and a smooth velvety texture achieved by blending part of the soup. Enhanced with Worcestershire sauce, fresh thyme, and finished with a touch of balsamic vinegar and lemon juice for brightness. Perfect for a cozy meal serving 6 to 8 people.
Ingredients
Mushrooms
- 1½ lbs. cremini mushrooms, divided
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 3 medium carrots, roughly chopped
- 3 stalks celery, roughly chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, roughly chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, minced (or heaping ½ teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Fats & Thickener
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- ¼ cup flour
Liquids & Bases
- 2 teaspoons beef bouillon base, granulated or crushed cubes
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or chives (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Measure out ½ cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt and let it come to room temperature. Slice ⅓ of the mushrooms (about 8 ounces) into ⅛ to ¼-inch thick slices. Roughly chop the remaining 1 pound (16 ounces) of mushrooms.
- Chop mirepoix: Place the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic into a food processor and pulse until roughly chopped, not fine. If you don’t have a food processor, chop these by hand.
- Caramelize sliced mushrooms: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms, stir to coat, then spread them in an even layer. Let cook undisturbed until the bottoms turn deep golden brown, then flip and repeat for the other side. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and some freshly cracked salt. Transfer the mushrooms to a bowl and do not clean the pot yet.
- Sauté chopped mushrooms and mirepoix: Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 2 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil to the pot. Add the chopped mushrooms and the mirepoix mixture. Sauté for about 10 minutes or until vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally. The chopped mushrooms will not brown like the sliced ones.
- Cook roux and add broth: Sprinkle in the flour along with paprika, dried dill, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Stir in beef bouillon base and slowly add chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
- Simmer soup: Cover and bring soup to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld flavors.
- Puree part of the soup: Working in two batches, transfer half of the soup (including vegetables and broth) into a blender. Fill the blender no more than one-third full to prevent overflow. Blend until very smooth. Leave the blender cap open slightly and cover with a paper towel or dish towel to allow steam to escape safely and avoid explosions.
- Combine and finish soup: Pour pureed soup back into the pot, stir to combine. Add milk and stir well. Then add the sour cream or Greek yogurt until the soup is smooth. Stir in the caramelized sliced mushrooms. Heat over low heat until warmed through, approximately 5 minutes.
- Add finishing touches and serve: Stir in balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, and salt to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and/or chives if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your comforting mushroom soup.
Notes
- Allow sour cream or yogurt to reach room temperature to prevent curdling when added to the hot soup.
- If you do not have a food processor, finely chop the mirepoix by hand.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness; adjust salt at the end.
- Be careful when blending hot liquids; always vent the blender lid to allow steam escape and prevent pressure buildup.
- The caramelized sliced mushrooms add texture and an earthy depth to the soup—do not skip this step.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute beef bouillon and chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit Worcestershire sauce or use a vegetarian alternative.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
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