This Creamy Mushroom Pasta Soup is the ultimate bowl of comfort. With savory mushrooms sautéed to golden perfection, aromatic garlic, and thyme enveloped in a velvety broth, it brings warmth to every bite. The small pasta adds a hearty texture that makes it feel like a cozy pasta dish and soup combined. It’s the ideal recipe for cooler nights when you’re craving something satisfying yet easy.
What sets this soup apart is its balance of flavors and textures. The earthiness of mushrooms pairs beautifully with the richness of cream and the sharp nuttiness of Parmesan. Whether served with crusty bread or a light green salad, this soup is guaranteed to impress both family and guests. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means easy cleanup and more time to relax with your comforting bowl.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 tablespoon butter
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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8 oz mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button)
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1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons flour
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4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
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1/2 cup cream (heavy or half and half)
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1/2 cup milk
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4 oz small pasta (like ditalini or small shells)
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1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
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Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
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Heat the butter and olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
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Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
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Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add the sliced mushrooms and thyme. Cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown, around 7–10 minutes.
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Sprinkle in the flour and stir for 1–2 minutes to coat the mushrooms.
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Gradually whisk in the broth, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze.
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Add salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a gentle boil.
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Stir in the cream, milk, and uncooked pasta. Lower heat to medium-low and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until pasta is tender.
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Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and fully combined.
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Remove from heat. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Background, Benefits, and Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
Creamy Mushroom Pasta Soup is a luxurious comfort dish that artfully combines the richness of a cream-based soup with the hearty texture of pasta and the earthy, umami-packed flavor of mushrooms. Originating from the idea of combining a classic mushroom cream soup with pasta, this hybrid recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, and anyone who wants the warmth of a home-cooked meal without hours in the kitchen.
The idea of creamy mushroom soup can be traced back to European kitchens, particularly in France and Eastern Europe, where mushroom broths and cream-based soups were common comfort foods during colder months. Pasta, on the other hand, brings a distinctly Italian flair to the dish. By merging the two culinary traditions, this recipe creates a one-pot wonder that’s hearty, wholesome, and deeply satisfying.
Mushrooms are the true star of this dish. Not only do they offer a meaty, satisfying bite, but they’re also rich in antioxidants, vitamins like B and D, and immune-boosting compounds. They bring a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate with other vegetables, especially when sautéed until golden brown. The caramelization process enhances their umami notes, making the soup irresistibly savory.
The use of small pasta like ditalini or shells ensures that each spoonful has a perfect balance of soup and substance. Pasta adds that comforting starchy bite, turning what would be a light starter into a filling, nutritious meal. It’s the kind of dish that leaves you full, satisfied, and not weighed down—ideal for lunch or dinner.
Cream and milk in this recipe add a velvety smooth texture without making it overly heavy. Paired with Parmesan cheese, which melts beautifully into the broth, the result is a silky soup with layers of complex, cheesy richness. For those watching their dairy intake, substitutions like coconut milk, oat milk, or even Greek yogurt can work beautifully, proving how flexible this recipe can be.
This soup is also highly customizable. Prefer it vegetarian? Stick with vegetable broth. Want to add protein? Toss in shredded rotisserie chicken, white beans, or even pan-seared tofu. Looking for more greens? Add a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. The base is so versatile that you can adjust it to suit your dietary needs or cravings without compromising flavor.
In terms of benefits, the real win here is its simplicity. Everything is made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. It’s also budget-friendly—mushrooms, pasta, milk, and aromatics are all affordable pantry staples. Plus, it’s a wonderful make-ahead option. The flavors deepen after a day in the fridge, and leftovers reheat well, making it a perfect addition to your weekly meal prep.
Another hidden advantage of this recipe is its appeal to picky eaters. Kids and adults alike find the creamy texture and mild flavors comforting. If mushrooms aren’t your usual go-to, this soup is a great gateway recipe because their flavor melds beautifully into the creamy base without being overpowering. The pasta also makes the soup more approachable for those who are wary of traditional mushroom soups.
Visually, this dish is as stunning as it is delicious. When garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a dusting of Parmesan, it becomes a restaurant-worthy meal. Serve it with a crusty baguette, garlic toast, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for an indulgent experience that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping for a busy workweek, or simply in the mood for something cozy, this Creamy Mushroom Pasta Soup is the kind of recipe that brings comfort, convenience, and culinary joy together. It’s the definition of a reliable, soul-soothing dish that you’ll come back to again and again.
Conclusion
Creamy Mushroom Pasta Soup is the ultimate expression of comfort food—earthy, creamy, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. With simple ingredients and one-pot convenience, it brings gourmet flavor to everyday meals without the stress. Whether you’re cooking for a quiet night in, meal prepping for the week, or impressing guests with a cozy starter, this soup delivers warmth, nourishment, and flavor in every spoonful. It’s a recipe that proves you don’t need complex steps or fancy ingredients to create something truly delicious. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.