There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to soothe the soul, especially when it’s packed with flavor and ready in under 40 minutes. This creamy cottage cheese & mushroom soup recipe is the perfect embodiment of comfort food. Earthy mushrooms combined with the subtle tang of cottage cheese create a uniquely satisfying and protein-rich experience. Forget bland, forget boring – this soup is a culinary hug in a bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Cottage Cheese Mushroom Soup Recipe
This isn’t your average mushroom soup. The addition of cottage cheese elevates it to a whole new level. Here’s why you’ll be making this recipe again and again:
- Uniquely Creamy: Cottage cheese adds a luscious creaminess without the need for heavy cream.
- Flavorful Depth: The combination of cremini and shiitake mushrooms creates a complex and earthy flavor profile.
- Quick & Easy: From start to finish, this soup is ready in just 35 minutes.
- Protein-Packed: Cottage cheese is a great source of protein, making this soup a filling and satisfying meal.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to your preferred mushroom varieties and vegetables.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need, along with some helpful substitution ideas:
- Olive Oil: Use any neutral-flavored oil like canola or sunflower oil.
- Onion & Garlic: The aromatic base of the soup. Yellow or white onions work best.
- Cremini Mushrooms: Also known as baby bellas, they offer a mild, earthy flavor.
- Shiitake Mushrooms: Bring a deeper, more umami-rich flavor. You can substitute with more cremini mushrooms if needed, or even try oyster mushrooms.
- Vegetable Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness. Chicken broth can also be used if preferred.
- Cottage Cheese: Full-fat or low-fat cottage cheese both work well. The higher the fat content, the richer the soup will be. For a dairy-free alternative, try using blended silken tofu for a similar creamy texture. We have a great cottage cheese wraps recipe if you want to use the rest of your tub!
- Dried Thyme: Adds a subtle herbaceous note. Fresh thyme can also be used; use about 1 tablespoon.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste.
- Fresh Parsley: For garnish. Adds a pop of freshness.
- Crusty Bread: For serving. Choose your favorite type of bread for dipping.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Mushroom Soup
Follow these simple steps to create your own bowl of creamy comfort:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
- Add the sliced mushrooms (cremini and shiitake) and cook until softened and browned, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the cottage cheese and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
Tips for Success
Here are a few extra tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking the mushrooms, avoid overcrowding the pot. Cook them in batches if necessary to ensure they brown properly.
- Adjust the consistency: For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup before adding the cottage cheese. This will create a creamier base while still leaving some texture.
- Taste as you go: Season the soup with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process, tasting as you go to ensure the flavors are balanced.
- Add a touch of acidity: A squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of sherry vinegar can brighten the flavors of the soup.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy cottage cheese mushroom soup is delicious on its own, but here are some ideas to make it a complete meal:
- Crusty Bread: Essential for soaking up all that delicious broth.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing that always hits the spot.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted carrots, parsnips, or other root vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Here’s how to properly store and reheat your leftover soup:
- Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or water to thin it out.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about this cottage cheese mushroom soup recipe:
- Can I use frozen mushrooms? Yes, you can use frozen mushrooms, but make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before cooking.
- Can I make this soup vegan? Substitute the cottage cheese with blended silken tofu or a vegan cream cheese alternative.
- Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Carrots, celery, or potatoes would be great additions.
This simple soup comes together quickly!
This creamy cottage cheese mushroom soup recipe is a delightful twist on a classic. The unexpected addition of cottage cheese creates a creamy, flavorful, and protein-packed soup that’s perfect for a cozy night in. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort.
Creamy Cottage Cheese & Mushroom Soup: Cozy Comfort in 35 Minutes
This creamy cottage cheese and mushroom soup is a flavorful and satisfying meal, perfect for a chilly evening. It’s surprisingly easy to make, using simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. The cottage cheese adds a unique richness and tanginess that complements the earthy mushrooms beautifully. We use a combination of cremini and shiitake mushrooms for depth, but feel free to experiment with your favorites. This soup is not only delicious but also packed with protein, making it a healthy and hearty choice. A touch of fresh thyme elevates the aroma and taste. Serve with crusty bread for dipping and enjoy the cozy warmth of this comforting soup. Feel free to add a swirl of cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra touch of elegance.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 4 ounces shiitake mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until softened and browned, about 8-10 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the cottage cheese and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread.
Notes
For a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup before adding the cottage cheese. Adjust the amount of cottage cheese to your liking; more will make the soup creamier and tangier. Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or celery for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: European-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 25mg