When the winter chill sets in, there’s nothing better than a warm, creamy soup to make the day feel cozy. This Creamy Mushroom and Wild Rice Soup is one of our favorites at The Denman Homestead. It’s rich, earthy, and filled with hearty ingredients that will warm you up from the inside out. Made with fresh mushrooms, nutty wild rice, and a touch of cream, this soup is as nourishing as it is comforting—a perfect dish for a quiet winter evening.

Why You’ll Love This Soup
The combination of mushrooms and wild rice creates a beautiful balance of flavors and textures. Wild rice has a slightly chewy, nutty quality that pairs perfectly with the earthy richness of mushrooms. Plus, this soup is both filling and wholesome, making it ideal as a main course with just a slice of crusty bread on the side. And if you’re looking to make it even healthier, it can easily be adapted to a dairy-free version!
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 cup wild rice, rinsed and drained
- 1 lb fresh mushrooms (such as cremini, button, or a mix), sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Crusty bread for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Wild Rice
1. In a medium pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
2. Add the wild rice, reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the water. Drain any excess water.
3. Set the cooked wild rice aside while you prepare the rest of the soup.
The Denman Homestead tip: Wild rice can take a bit longer to cook than other grains, so we recommend starting it first to let it cook while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms and Aromatics

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to brown.
3. Add the diced onion and cook for an additional 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the minced garlic and thyme, and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
The Denman Homestead tip: Using a mix of mushroom types, like cremini, shiitake, and button mushrooms, adds extra depth and flavor to the soup. Full disclosure, I myself am not a huge mushroom texture fan (although I do love the flavor) so feel free to chop them up into little pieces if you are sensitive to textures like me!
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
1. Add the vegetable or chicken broth and water to the pot, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
2. Stir in the cooked wild rice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Add the Cream
1. Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option).
2. Allow the soup to heat through, but avoid bringing it to a full boil once the cream is added, as this could cause it to curdle.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve with crusty bread on the side for dipping, and enjoy the comforting warmth of this creamy winter favorite.
Tips for the Perfect Creamy Mushroom and Wild Rice Soup
1. Use Fresh Herbs if Possible: Fresh thyme adds a wonderful earthy flavor that complements the mushrooms. If you have other herbs on hand, like rosemary or sage, feel free to add a small amount for extra depth.
2. Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk or almond milk for the cream if you prefer a dairy-free version. It will still be creamy and delicious with a subtle hint of sweetness.
3. Use a Variety of Mushrooms: For the best flavor, mix different types of mushrooms. Cremini, shiitake, and button mushrooms all add their own unique flavor notes.
4. Freeze for Later: This soup freezes well, making it a great option for batch cooking. Store in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
A Hearty Winter Meal the Whole Family Will Enjoy
This Creamy Mushroom and Wild Rice Soup is the ultimate winter comfort food, bringing warmth and flavor to even the coldest days. At The Denman Homestead, we love making this soup on a quiet January night, savoring its rich flavors with a cozy blanket nearby. Whether you’re feeding a family or just want a comforting bowl to yourself, this soup is sure to bring a little extra comfort to your winter.
Enjoy this recipe, and stay warm this season from all of us at The Denman Homestead!
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