Creamy Mushroom Pasta Soup

Creamy Mushroom Pasta Soup is the perfect bowl of comfort—rich, velvety, and filled with tender pasta, hearty mushrooms, and savory herbs. It’s a cozy, soul-warming dish that brings together the depth of a creamy mushroom soup with the heartiness of pasta, all in one satisfying spoonful. Ideal for chilly nights or when you need a quick, comforting meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, hearty, and full of umami flavor
• Combines the comfort of soup with the satisfaction of pasta
• Ready in under 40 minutes with simple ingredients
• Perfect for vegetarians (and easy to make vegan)
• One-pot recipe for easy cleanup
• Customizable with your favorite pasta shapes and add-ins
• Great for leftovers and meal prep
• Family-friendly and filling
• Works well as a main or a side dish
• A great way to use up pantry staples and leftover mushrooms

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Olive oil or butter
• Onion
• Garlic
• Mushrooms (cremini, button, or a mix)
• Fresh thyme (or dried)
• Vegetable broth
• Pasta (small shapes like ditalini, elbows, or shells)
• Heavy cream or half-and-half (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
• Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Stir in the mushrooms and thyme; cook until mushrooms are tender and browned, about 6–8 minutes.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
5. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally.
6. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cream. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until soup thickens slightly.
7. Add Parmesan cheese if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Vegan version: Use plant-based butter and cream, and skip the Parmesan or use vegan cheese.
• Protein boost: Add white beans or shredded rotisserie chicken for extra protein.
• Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
• Earthy depth: Add a splash of soy sauce or miso paste for deeper umami flavor.
• Green twist: Stir in baby spinach or kale just before serving.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-free.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the consistency. If freezing, keep the pasta separate from the soup and combine when ready to serve for best texture.

FAQs

What type of mushrooms are best for this soup?

Cremini or button mushrooms work great, but a mix of wild mushrooms will give it even more flavor.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, though the soup will be less rich. Whole milk or evaporated milk are good alternatives.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, but cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving to avoid sogginess.

Is this soup vegetarian?

Yes, just ensure the broth and cheese (if using) are vegetarian-friendly.

What kind of pasta should I use?

Short pasta like ditalini, small shells, or elbows work best for spoonable bites.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely—try carrots, celery, peas, or spinach for added nutrition.

How do I thicken the soup?

Simmer uncovered to reduce liquid, or stir in a cornstarch slurry or extra cheese.

Is it freezer-friendly?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze the soup without the pasta and add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

Can I make this soup without dairy?

Yes, use plant-based cream or coconut milk and omit or replace Parmesan with a vegan alternative.

What can I serve with creamy mushroom pasta soup?

It pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

Creamy Mushroom Pasta Soup is a comforting, nourishing dish that combines the best of two worlds—rich mushroom soup and satisfying pasta. With its cozy texture and deep, earthy flavors, it’s the kind of meal you’ll crave all season long. Simple to make and endlessly versatile, it’s a must-have in your comfort food rotation.

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