There’s something deeply comforting about a warm bowl of mushroom soup, especially when it’s creamy, rich, and ready in a flash. That’s exactly why I love this Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Soup recipe—it transforms simple ingredients into a velvety, flavorful dish that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight meal or a starter to impress guests, this soup hits all the right notes. The magic happens when earthy mushrooms meld with herbs and cream under pressure, creating a luscious texture without hours of simmering. If you’re tired of the same old fast food or want to delight your taste buds with homemade goodness, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.
Why choose Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe?
Speed and ease: This recipe takes minimal prep and cooks in under 30 minutes using the Instant Pot. Rich, velvety texture: Pressure cooking unlocks deep mushroom flavor while keeping the soup luxuriously creamy. Versatile comfort: Perfect as a simple lunch, elegant starter, or cozy dinner companion. Homemade goodness: Say goodbye to fast food boredom with fresh, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Crowd-pleaser: This luscious soup satisfies both mushroom lovers and those new to this savory delight.
Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Mushrooms – Choose a mix of cremini and button mushrooms for a rich, earthy depth that defines this Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Soup recipe.
- Onion – Finely chopped to add a gentle sweetness and build flavor layers.
- Garlic – Minced to infuse aromatic warmth that complements mushroom earthiness.
- Butter – Used to sauté veggies, lending a silky richness as the soup begins.
- Olive oil – Balances butter for perfect sautéing without burning.
- Vegetable or chicken broth – Provides the savory liquid base that carries all flavors beautifully.
For Creaminess & Seasoning
- Heavy cream – Adds luxurious creaminess, making this soup indulgently smooth.
- Thickening agent (flour or cornstarch) – Helps achieve the perfect velvety texture without heaviness.
- Fresh thyme – Offers an herbal note that brightens the creamy mushroom flavor.
- Salt and pepper – Essential to season and elevate every ingredient’s taste.
Optional Garnish
- Chopped parsley – Adds fresh color and a mild herbal finish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese – Sprinkled on top for an extra umami kick that enhances the soup’s richness.
How to Make Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe
For the Soup Base:
- Heat & Sauté: Set Instant Pot to Sauté mode, melt butter with olive oil. Cook chopped onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 2 minutes.
- Cook Mushrooms: Add mushrooms, stirring occasionally. Sauté until they release moisture and turn golden brown, about 5–7 minutes.
Pressure Cooking:
- Add Broth & Herbs: Pour in broth and fresh thyme, scraping browned bits from the pot’s bottom for extra flavor.
- Cook & Release: Seal lid, pressure cook on High for 5 minutes. Let natural release for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
For the Creamy Finish:
- Stir in Cream: Switch to Sauté, stir in cream and flour mixture. Simmer gently until soup thickens to a velvety consistency, about 3–4 minutes.
- Season & Serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley or Parmesan for a warm, inviting finish.
Optional: drizzle truffle oil for an earthy flourish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe
- Use Fresh Mushrooms: Always pick fresh, firm mushrooms to maximize flavor and avoid a mushy, watery soup that can occur with older ones.
- Sauté Thoroughly: Don’t rush the sauté step—browning the mushrooms and onions well builds a rich, deep base essential for this creamy soup.
- Balance Creaminess: Add cream gradually and stir constantly to prevent it from curdling; this keeps your Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Soup recipe smooth and luscious.
- Avoid Over-Thickening: Mix flour or cornstarch with cold water before adding, and simmer gently to achieve perfect thickness without lumps.
- Natural Pressure Release: Letting the pressure release naturally intensifies flavors and keeps the soup’s texture silky, preventing sudden splatters or separation.
- Customize Garnishes: Fresh herbs or Parmesan add brightness and complexity—experiment to find your favorite finishing touch for an inviting, homey bowl.
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Soup
Fridge: Store your soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick, comforting meal.
Reheating: When reheating, ensure the soup is heated thoroughly to at least 165°F. Stir well and add a little cream or broth to restore creaminess.
Flavor Reminder: The Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Soup can taste even better the next day after flavors meld, so consider making extra to enjoy later!
What to Serve with Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Soup?
A bowl of this luscious soup calls for delightful accompaniments that enhance its creamy, earthy flavors.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, a warm, crusty baguette adds a satisfying crunch and absorbs every spoonful of soup delightfully.
- Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with tart vinaigrette brightens the palate and creates a lovely contrast to the rich soup.
- Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery, garlicky sticks are a cozy addition that complements the mushroom flavor while adding delightful texture.
- Savory Cheese Platter: Include a selection of cheeses like brie and gouda; their creaminess will harmonize beautifully with the soup’s richness.
- Homemade Biscuits: Fluffy and warm, biscuits are the ultimate comfort food, and their buttery flavor pairs beautifully with the hearty soup.
- Chardonnay Wine: A crisp white wine with hints of oak accentuates the earthy mushrooms, creating an elegant experience for your meal.
- Seasonal Veggie Stir-Fry: A bowl of sautéed seasonal vegetables adds vibrant colors and a fresh element, balancing the soup’s creamy indulgence.
- Chocolate Fondue: For dessert, rich chocolate fondue allows you to dip strawberries or marshmallows, adding a touch of sweetness to end the meal on a high note.
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Soup options are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prepping! You can chop the onions and mushrooms up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can whisk together the cream and thickening agent (flour or cornstarch) and keep it sealed until you’re ready to finish the soup. When it’s time to enjoy your meal, simply sauté the prepped ingredients in the Instant Pot and follow the remaining steps as instructed. This setup helps you achieve that velvety, rich flavor of the Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Soup with minimal effort, allowing you to savor homemade goodness without the rush.
Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Soup Variations
Feel free to experiment with these delightful twists to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a creamy, non-dairy alternative that’s equally rich.
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Herb Medley: Add fresh rosemary or sage for a fragrant herbal boost, enhancing the earthy flavors without overpowering them.
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Add Protein: Incorporate diced chicken, turkey, or cooked lentils for a heartier soup that’s packed with protein and flavor.
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Umami Bomb: Mix in a splash of soy sauce or miso paste for a savory depth that will surprise and delight your taste buds.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give your soup a warming, spicy undertone, perfect for chilly days.
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Wild Mushroom Blend: Try using different mushroom varieties like shiitake or oyster mushrooms for a nuanced, gourmet flavor profile that impresses.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in some chopped carrots or spinach for added color, nutrition, and a subtle sweetness that balances the dish.
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Slow Cook Option: If you prefer, use the slow cooker setting, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over several hours for an even richer experience.
Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of mushrooms work best for this Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Soup recipe?
I recommend using a mix of cremini and button mushrooms. They offer a lovely earthy depth and firmness that hold up well under pressure cooking, giving you that rich, satisfying texture and flavor.
How long can I store the leftover Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Soup in the fridge?
You can safely store your soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Make sure to reheat it gently to maintain its creamy texture—adding a splash of broth or cream can help revive it beautifully.
Can I freeze Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Soup, and how do I do it properly?
Absolutely! Freeze your soup in portion-sized freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. For best results: cool the soup completely, ladle into containers leaving some headspace for expansion, seal well, and label with the date. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove, stirring occasionally and adding a bit of liquid if needed.
My soup turned out watery—what could have gone wrong?
This often happens if mushrooms weren’t browned enough or if too much liquid was added. Make sure to sauté mushrooms until golden and moisture evaporates before adding broth. Also, use the flour or cornstarch slurry properly and simmer gently after pressure cooking to achieve that perfect creamy thickness.
Is this Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Soup safe for pets or suitable for allergy-sensitive diets?
This recipe contains cream and mushrooms, which are not recommended for many pets, so avoid sharing with your furry friends. For allergy considerations, it contains dairy and gluten if using flour; consider substitutes like coconut cream or cornstarch to adapt for lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity.
Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe: Easy Comfort in Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Set Instant Pot to Sauté mode, melt butter with olive oil. Cook chopped onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 2 minutes.
- Add mushrooms, stirring occasionally. Sauté until they release moisture and turn golden brown, about 5–7 minutes.
- Pour in broth and fresh thyme, scraping browned bits from the pot’s bottom for extra flavor.
- Seal lid, pressure cook on High for 5 minutes. Let natural release for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
- Switch to Sauté, stir in cream and flour mixture. Simmer gently until soup thickens to a velvety consistency, about 3–4 minutes.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley or Parmesan for a warm, inviting finish.
