Substitutes For Cream Of Mushroom Soup
Ran out of cream of mushroom soup? No need to run to the store! There are plenty of ways to keep your dish creamy and flavorful. There are plenty of ways to substitute with ingredients you probably already have or get creative with a few fresh swaps.
In this guide, we’ll share some simple and tasty alternatives that work in casseroles, sauces and more. So, whether you’re dealing with a last-minute shortage or planning ahead, these ideas have you covered. Let’s keep your recipe on track and just as delicious.
Why You Need Cream of Mushroom Soup
Cream of mushroom soup serves a few purposes:
- it’s used as a casserole base and adds a smooth, creamy texture
- it’s used to make sauces for chicken, beef and other meals
- also it adds umami, a savory flavor component to many meals
Common Cream of Mushroom Substitutes
Whether you’re after something creamy or just need a quick fix, there are plenty of simple swaps to keep your dish tasting great. Which one works best? That depends on what you’re making.
Cream of Chicken Soup
Cream of chicken has the same consistency and creaminess as cream of mushroom soup, making it a great substitute. It has a distinct chicken flavor instead of umami so make sure to use it in recipes that will work with that different taste. It can be used as a 1-for-1 substitute for cream of mushroom soup.
Cream of Broccoli Soup
Cream of Broccoli Soup is savory like cream of mushroom soup and works well in most casseroles and sauces. It can be used as a 1-for-1 replacement for cream of mushroom soup as long as you don’t mind a hint of broccoli flavor in your recipes.
Cream of Celery Soup
Cream of Celery Soup has the same creaminess as cream of mushroom but without the umami flavor. It has a stronger vegetable taste but is great for recipes like chicken tortilla casserole. Cream of celery can be used as a 1-for-1 substitute for cream of mushroom.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream is thick like cream of mushroom but doesn’t have the earthy umami taste. It thickens when it’s heated so it can be used as a 1-for-1 replacement for cream of mushroom.
Cream Cheese and Milk
Cream cheese with a small amount of milk adds creaminess to a recipe without the savory flavor of cream of mushroom. Cut cream cheese into small cubes and add a splash of milk. Use a whisk to mix it together and add it a small amount at a time until it reaches the desired consistency. It can be used as a 1-for-1 substitute for cream of mushroom.
Sour Cream
Sour cream has a creaminess and a tangy flavor without the umami flavor of cream of mushroom. The thickness of sour cream varies by brand so start with half the amount and add more as needed to get the desired consistency. If your recipe calls for 1 cup of cream of mushroom, start with one-half cup of sour cream and see how thick it is. Add more as needed.
“For anything cream based in recipes, I use canned coconut milk. Not only is it dairy free but it still gives that rich, comforting flavor to a dish and a boost of healthy fats. We use it the most as the base for soups and slow cooker dishes.”
— Shelby Stover, Fit as a Mama Bear
Coconut Milk
Unsweetened coconut milk can be used on its own to replace cream of mushroom soup. Coconut milk has a distinct flavor, so you should use it in recipes where the coconut flavor complements the recipe. It can be used as a 1-for-1 replacement for cream of mushroom soup.
Mushroom Roux
Equipment
- saucepan
Ingredients
- ¼ cup flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup mushroom broth or vegetable broth
- ¼ cup heavy cream or plant-based milk
- ½ cup diced mushrooms
Instructions
- In a skillet, melt the butter on low heat
- Add flour and whisk the mixture until the butter absorbs the flour
- Gradually add heavy cream or plant-based milk while whisking
- Pour in the broth and whisk until smooth
- Stir in the mushrooms
- This can be used as a 1-for-1 substitute for cream of mushroom soup, this doesn't taste great on it's own you need to use it in something
