Creamy Roasted Garlic Mushroom Soup

This luxurious mushroom soup combines a blend of sautéed and sliced mushrooms for deep flavor and hearty texture. Roasted garlic adds a rich, mellow depth, while chicken stock, half & half, and heavy cream create a silky, comforting base. Perfect for a cozy meal or elegant starter, this soup is both earthy and indulgent.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs mixed mushrooms (e.g., cremini, shiitake, button), cleaned and roughly chopped
• 1 lb sliced mushrooms (same or different variety for texture)
• 1 head of roasted garlic (about 10-12 cloves), mashed
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 2 cups half & half
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the mushrooms: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add the chopped 3 lbs of mixed mushrooms and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms release their juices and start to brown. Season with salt and pepper as they cook.
2. Add aromatics: Add the onion and cook for another 5-6 minutes until softened. Stir in the roasted garlic, mashing it with a spoon to incorporate.
3. Blend for a smooth base: Transfer the mixture to a blender (in batches if necessary) and blend until smooth. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot until mostly smooth but still textured.
4. Return to pot and add stock: Pour the blended mixture back into the pot. Add the chicken stock and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Add sliced mushrooms for texture: In a separate pan, heat the remaining 1 tbsp of butter. Sauté the 1 lb of sliced mushrooms until they’re golden and tender, about 6-8 minutes. Add these to the soup for texture.
6. Finish with creams: Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the half & half and heavy whipping cream. Heat gently, stirring occasionally, until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes. Do not let it boil to prevent curdling.
7. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Serving Suggestion:

Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.