We’ve always been fans of the comforting warmth in Sweet Tomatoes’ Cream of Mushroom Soup, a beloved staple from the popular restaurant chain that’s won hearts for its rich, earthy flavors. Originating from their fresh-focused menu, this homemade version brings that same cozy appeal right to your kitchen, making it easy to recreate on chilly days.
It’s packed with tender mushrooms and creamy goodness that we’ll show you how to whip up effortlessly. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty starter, our recipe promises a delicious twist that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients
To bring our homemade version of the Sweet Tomatoes Cream of Mushroom Soup to life, we start with these key ingredients. We’ve organized them in the order they’re typically used, including any necessary prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- Fresh mushrooms: 1 pound, sliced – The star of our soup, these provide the earthy, rich flavor that makes this dish so comforting.
- Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons – Used for sautéing, this adds a creamy base to build flavors.
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, finely chopped – Offers a sweet, aromatic foundation for the soup.
- Garlic cloves: 3, minced – Adds a pungent depth that enhances the overall taste.
- All-purpose flour: ¼ cup – Acts as a thickener for the perfect creamy texture.
- Chicken or vegetable broth: 4 cups – Provides the liquid base; opt for low-sodium to control seasoning.
- Heavy cream: 1 cup – Delivers the luxurious creaminess that defines our Sweet Tomatoes-inspired recipe.
- Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon – Infuses subtle herbal notes for added complexity.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste – Essential for balancing flavors, with about 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper as a starting point.
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped – Used as a garnish for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Required Tools and Equipment
To seamlessly transform our fresh mushrooms, onions, and other key ingredients into the creamy delight of Sweet Tomatoes Cream of Mushroom Soup, we need a straightforward set of tools and equipment. These essentials ensure efficient preparation and help achieve that perfect, velvety texture without any fuss.
Here’s a detailed list of the required items, organized by their primary function in the recipe:
- Cutting and Prep Tools:
- Chef’s knife: Essential for finely chopping mushrooms, onions, and garlic to release their flavors quickly and evenly.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface to prevent slips and ensure safe, precise vegetable prep.
- Cooking and Mixing Essentials:
- Large saucepan or stockpot (at least 4 quarts): Our go-to for simmering the soup base, allowing room for ingredients to cook without boiling over.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Ideal for stirring the mixture to prevent sticking and incorporate flavors smoothly.
- Blending and Finishing Tools:
- Immersion blender or countertop blender: Crucial for pureeing the soup to its signature creamy consistency—we recommend an immersion blender for ease and less mess.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate for portioning broth, cream, and seasonings, ensuring our soup turns out balanced and delicious every time.
- Additional Handy Items:
- Fine-mesh strainer: Useful if we want to strain the soup for an ultra-smooth finish, though optional for a rustic texture.
- Ladle: Perfect for serving the warm soup into bowls, making the process neat and efficient.
By having these tools on hand, we guarantee a smooth cooking experience that highlights the rich, comforting flavors of our homemade version. Always opt for high-quality, durable items to enhance your kitchen adventures.
Instructions
Now that we have our fresh ingredients and essential tools lined up, let’s walk through the steps to craft our creamy Sweet Tomatoes Cream of Mushroom Soup. We’ll ensure each phase is straightforward and yields a comforting, flavorful result.
Prep the Ingredients
Before we start cooking, proper preparation sets the foundation for a smooth process. Begin by cleaning and slicing 1 pound of fresh mushrooms—we recommend cremini or button varieties for their earthy depth—into even ¼-inch slices to promote even cooking and release their rich, umami flavors. Next, peel and finely chop 1 medium yellow onion and mince 3 garlic cloves to create a fragrant base that infuses the soup with sweet and savory notes. Measure out ¼ cup of unsalted butter, ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper into separate bowls for easy access. Finally, rinse and chop 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley for a vibrant, fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and herbaceous brightness to our finished dish.
Cook the Soup
With ingredients prepped, we move to the stovetop to build layers of flavor. In a large saucepan or stockpot over medium heat, melt the ¼ cup of unsalted butter until it bubbles and releases a nutty aroma. Add the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic, then sauté for 3-4 minutes until they turn translucent and fragrant, filling your kitchen with an irresistible savory scent. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their juices, creating a glossy mixture that enhances the soup’s earthy essence. Sprinkle in the ¼ cup of all-purpose flour to form a roux, and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps and develop a smooth base. Gradually pour in the 4 cups of broth while whisking, then add the dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld into a hearty, comforting broth that promises warmth on chilly evenings.
Blend and Finish
To achieve the signature creamy texture of our Sweet Tomatoes Cream of Mushroom Soup, we now blend and refine. Using an immersion blender directly in the pot, puree the soup until smooth and velvety, or carefully transfer it in batches to a countertop blender for the same result—be sure to blend in short pulses to prevent splattering and capture that luxurious consistency. Stir in the 1 cup of heavy cream, heating gently over low heat for 2-3 minutes to incorporate without curdling, resulting in a rich, silky finish that coats your spoon perfectly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a final burst of freshness. Your soup is now ready to serve, offering a deeply satisfying blend of creamy indulgence and robust mushroom flavors.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To keep our Sweet Tomatoes Cream of Mushroom Soup fresh and flavorful, make-ahead and proper storage are essential for maintaining its creamy texture and rich mushroom essence. Let’s explore how we can prepare this soup in advance and store it effectively, ensuring it’s ready for those busy days or impromptu meals.
Make-Ahead Tips
We love making this soup ahead of time to save on prep work without sacrificing taste. Here’s how we do it:
- Prep Ingredients in Advance: Start by cleaning and slicing the fresh mushrooms, chopping the onions and garlic, and measuring out dry ingredients like flour and spices. Store these prepped components in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows us to jump straight into cooking when we’re ready.
- Cook the Soup Fully: Prepare the entire soup following our step-by-step instructions, but stop before adding the heavy cream and fresh parsley. Let the base cool completely, then refrigerate it in a covered container. When it’s time to serve, reheat the base on the stove over medium heat, stir in the cream, and garnish with parsley for that just-made freshness.
- Batch Cooking for Freezing: Double the recipe to make a larger batch. After cooking and blending, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers. This way, we can enjoy homemade soup on demand without starting from scratch.
Storage Tips
Proper storage helps preserve the soup’s comforting warmth and robust flavors. We recommend these methods to extend its shelf life while keeping it safe and delicious.
- Refrigerator Storage: Once the soup has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination.
- Freezer Storage: For longer-term storage, freeze the soup in portions to minimize waste. Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some headspace for expansion. Frozen soup maintains its quality for up to 3 months.
To provide a quick reference for storage durations and best practices, we’ve compiled the details in the table below:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Cool soup completely before storing; reheat gently on the stove to prevent separation. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Portion into individual servings; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. |
Reheating Instructions
When reheating, we suggest warming the soup slowly on the stovetop over low heat to retain its creamy consistency. Stir frequently and add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving for extended periods, as it can affect the texture—aim for even heating to keep that signature mushroom flavor intact.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Cream of Mushroom Soup recipe, capturing the essence of comfort in every bowl. It’s a go-to for cozy meals that bring us back for more.
By trying it yourself, you’ll discover how easy homemade favorites can elevate your kitchen adventures. Let’s keep creating delicious memories with simple, satisfying dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key ingredients for homemade Cream of Mushroom Soup?
Fresh mushrooms, unsalted butter, yellow onion, garlic, all-purpose flour, chicken or vegetable broth, heavy cream, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley are essential. These ingredients create a rich, creamy texture and robust flavor, making the soup comforting and easy to prepare at home.
What tools are required to make this soup?
You’ll need a chef’s knife and cutting board for prep, a large saucepan or stockpot for cooking, a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring, and an immersion or countertop blender for blending. Measuring cups and spoons ensure accurate portions, while a fine-mesh strainer and ladle help with serving for a seamless experience.
How do I prepare Cream of Mushroom Soup step by step?
Start by prepping ingredients: clean and slice mushrooms, chop onions and garlic. Sauté aromatics and mushrooms in butter, add flour to make a roux, then pour in broth and simmer. Blend for creaminess, stir in heavy cream, and garnish with parsley. The process builds layers of flavor for a satisfying, homemade soup.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, prep ingredients in advance or cook the full soup and stop before adding cream and parsley. This saves time for busy days. For longer storage, freeze portions after cooling. Reheat gently on the stove, adding cream just before serving to maintain creamy texture and fresh taste.
How should I store and reheat the soup?
Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight, then warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed to restore consistency and flavor.