If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting bowl that brings together earthy flavors and a touch of creaminess, this Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender wild rice swimming in a rich broth infused with savory mushrooms, complemented by a medley of vegetables and a whisper of Parmesan cheese. It’s a beautiful balance of texture and taste that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you want a nourishing lunch or a satisfying dinner, this soup stands out as a soul-soothing favorite I just can’t get enough of.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows several small white bowls and jars arranged on a white marbled surface, each filled with different cooking ingredients. In the center, one white bowl is full of sliced brown mushrooms with light beige gills. To its top right, there is a white bowl containing light green chopped celery pieces. Below that, a small white bowl is filled with bright orange diced carrots. At the bottom center, another white bowl holds finely chopped white onions. On the left side, a small white bowl contains mixed wild and white rice grains. Nearby, a glass jar is filled with a light tan liquid, possibly broth. Above it, a small white bowl holds a couple of whole peeled garlic cloves. Another small white bowl nearby is filled with a pale yellow powder, and a rectangular block of orange cheese with white salt crystals rests next to the celery. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the foundation to making this soup truly shine. Each component is simple yet essential, lending its own special touch to the dish’s flavor, texture, and color, ensuring every spoonful is full of delight.

Olive oil: Provides a fruity, smooth base for sautéing vegetables, adding depth to the soup’s flavor.
Unsalted butter: Brings richness and helps create that silky texture in the soup.
Yellow onion: Adds natural sweetness and a subtle aromatic quality when finely chopped.
Carrots: Offer a slight sweetness and vibrant color, finely chopped for even cooking.
Celery: Contributes a fresh, slightly peppery crunch that balances the softer ingredients.
Baby bella (cremini) mushrooms: Delivers a hearty, umami-packed flavor and meaty texture sliced just right.
Garlic cloves: Infuses the soup with a bold, fragrant punch when minced perfectly.
Dry wild rice blend: The star grain, offering chewy texture and nutty undertones that make this soup so special.
Poultry seasoning: A fragrant herb blend that gently seasons the soup, or substitute with Herbes de Provence for a Mediterranean twist.
Kosher salt: Essential for bringing out all the natural flavors without overpowering.
Black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and complexity.
Lower sodium vegetable broth: Creates a flavorful, savory base while keeping the soup light and wholesome.
Heavy cream: Adds decadent creaminess and rounds out the flavors beautifully; can be swapped for cashew cream if you prefer dairy-free.
Parmesan cheese: Provides a sharp, nutty finish that melts smoothly into the soup.

How to Make Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Base Vegetables

Start by heating olive oil and butter together in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the finely chopped onions, carrots, and celery. These vegetables are the flavor backbone, so cook them gently for about 8 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. This slow softening creates a natural sweetness and a savory foundation you’ll taste in every spoonful.

Step 2: Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic

Next, toss in the sliced baby bella mushrooms and minced garlic. Cooking them for 6 to 8 minutes until the mushrooms turn soft and golden unlocks their deep umami flavors, elevating the richness of the soup. Stir occasionally but let the mushrooms develop a light golden color for that slightly caramelized edge that adds complexity.

Step 3: Toast the Wild Rice

Adding the dry wild rice blend now and stirring it into the vegetables allows the grains to get lightly toasted for 1 to 2 minutes. This step enhances the rice’s nutty aroma and ensures each grain maintains its delightful chewiness. Immediately add the poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to evenly incorporate the warm herby notes and seasoning.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Pour in the vegetable broth along with one cup of water, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then cover and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer gently for 45 to 60 minutes — this patience pays off when you bite into perfectly tender rice nestled within a richly flavored broth. The soup thickens and the taste melds beautifully during this slow cook.

Step 5: Finish with Cream and Cheese

Once the rice is to tender perfection and the soup has thickened slightly, remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly to ensure it melts smoothly without clumping. This final step brings luxuriously creamy texture and a sharp, cheesy finish that makes the Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup Recipe truly unforgettable.

How to Serve Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup Recipe

A large white pot with a blue handle is filled with creamy soup that has a thick texture. The soup contains visible pieces of orange carrot, small chunks of light-colored vegetables, and dark brown sliced mushrooms mixed with rice grains. In the center, a white spoon holds a close-up of the soup, showing the chunky mixture with the same ingredients in detail against the creamy beige liquid. The background shows a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To add a little extra flair and flavor, consider topping your soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few grinds of fresh black pepper can bring out a lovely freshness. For those who enjoy texture contrasts, crispy shallots or toasted pine nuts make wonderful garnishes that elevate both taste and presentation.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread or warm, buttered rolls that are perfect for dunking into the creamy broth. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the soup’s richness, making for a well-rounded meal. Roasted vegetables or a light cheese plate can also complement the earthy mushroom notes beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the soup in hollowed-out rustic bread bowls for a festive and cozy presentation. Ladling it into colorful bowls or pairing it with a small glass of white wine can make it feel special for guests. For a fun twist, garnish each bowl with a crisp sage leaf or a swirl of cashew cream to highlight the soup’s creamy goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup Recipe stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. The flavors even deepen overnight, making leftovers just as delicious, if not more so, than the first serving.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this soup later, it freezes very well. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room at the top for expansion. Frozen soup will keep for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing with the Parmesan cheese added; instead, stir cheese in after reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much. For extra creaminess, fold in a little heavy cream or grated Parmesan after heating. Avoid microwaving for long periods as it can affect texture.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with cashew cream or a plant-based alternative, and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese substitute. The soup still tastes rich and comforting without the dairy.

What is the best wild rice to use?

A wild rice blend that includes a combination of wild, brown, and sometimes white rice works best for texture variety and flavor complexity. Brands like Lundberg offer blends that cook evenly and taste fantastic in this soup.

Can I use dried herbs instead of poultry seasoning?

Yes, poultry seasoning is a fragrant blend of herbs like sage, thyme, and marjoram. If you don’t have it, Herbes de Provence makes a great alternative or you can combine these herbs separately to mimic the flavor.

Is homemade vegetable broth better for this soup?

Homemade broth adds a lovely depth and freshness, but a good-quality lower sodium store-bought vegetable broth works well too. Using lower sodium allows you to control the salt levels better.

How thick is the soup supposed to be?

The soup should have a creamy, slightly thick consistency but still be broth-forward. The rice and cream add body, but it should remain spoonable without being overly dense.

Final Thoughts

If you want to warm up your kitchen and soul at the same time, this Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup Recipe is the perfect way to do it. It’s a dish that combines simple, humble ingredients into something truly special — comforting, flavorful, and satisfying at every bite. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and share it with loved ones who appreciate good food made with care. Happy cooking!

Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup Recipe