Cream of Mushroom Substitutes

Ran out of cream of mushroom soup? No worries — it happens to the best of us. Whether you’re missing a can, need a dairy-free option or just want to mix things up, there are plenty of ways to keep your dish creamy and flavorful. You can whip up easy substitutes 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 in cooking. Here are some reasons why you need it:

• Cream of mushroom soup is used as a base for casseroles and adds a smooth, creamy texture.
• It can be used to make sauces for chicken, beef and other meals.
• Cream of mushroom soup adds umami, savory and rich, creamy flavors to many dishes.

Common cream of mushroom substitutes

Out of cream of mushroom soup? Don’t worry — you’ve got options. Whether you’re after something creamy or just need a quick fix, there are plenty of simple swaps to keep your dish tasting great.

Cream of chicken soup

Cream of chicken has the same consistency and creaminess as cream of mushroom soup, making it a great substitute. It doesn’t have the umami flavor that cream of mushroom does, but it works well in casseroles and sauces. Cream of chicken has a distinct chicken flavor 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.

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 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 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.

Homemade cream of mushroom soup

This recipe will work well if you want a bowl of cream of mushroom soup to eat. Just remember that it is too thin to use for cream or sauces.

What you need:

• 1 cup of mushroom or vegetable broth.
• ½ cup heavy cream.
• 2 tablespoons butter.
• ¾ cup diced mushrooms.
• Onion powder, garlic powder and pepper to taste.

Mix and heat in a saucepan. If you prefer a creamy soup, use a blender to combine before heating.

Heavy cream, broth and mushrooms

This version of homemade cream of mushroom soup is creamier than the one above and works well in sauces and casseroles.

What you need:

• 1 cup heavy cream.
• 1 cup mushroom or vegetable broth.
• 1 cup diced mushrooms.
• 2 tablespoons of butter.

Melt the butter and saute the mushrooms. Pour in the heavy cream and broth and simmer on low until it thickens. This mixture can be used as a 1-for-1 substitute for cream of mushroom soup.

Coconut milk

Unsweetened coconut milk can be used on its own to replace cream of mushroom soup. Keep in mind that it has a distinct flavor, so you should make sure to 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.

“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

Mushroom roux

A simple mushroom roux can be made with regular or gluten-free flour and heavy cream or plant-based milk.

What you need:

• ¼ cup flour.
• 2 tablespoons butter.
• 1 cup mushroom or vegetable broth.
• ¼ cup heavy cream or plant-based milk.
• ½ cup diced mushrooms.

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.

Final thoughts

Running out of cream of mushroom soup doesn’t have to ruin your recipe. You can make it work without leaving your kitchen with many easy substitutes. From whipping up a quick creamy base to swapping in another soup, there’s always a way to save the day.

This article originally appeared on Food Drink Life.