Creamy Mushroom Stew is a comforting dish made with tender mushrooms in a rich, smooth sauce. It’s perfect for cozy nights and pairs well with bread or rice. The flavor is mellow and satisfying.
I once made this for friends and accidentally used twice the mushrooms—they loved it! Now I always add a little extra, just for fun.
If you want, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top before serving. It adds a bright touch and makes the stew even more inviting.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Mushrooms:
Fresh cremini or button mushrooms work well. I like to sauté them to bring out their umami flavor. If you want a milder taste, use white mushrooms; for a richer flavor, try shiitake. Dried mushrooms rehydrate nicely, too.
Cream:
Heavy cream gives this stew its creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, half-and-half can work. For a dairy-free version, coconut milk adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness. Just add gradually and taste as you go.
Onions & Garlic:
They form the flavor base. Use yellow or sweet onions for sweetness, or red onions for a milder flavor. Fresh garlic adds sharpness, but garlic powder can be a quick substitute. Sauté until fragrant to deepen the taste.
Broth & Herbs:
Use chicken or vegetable broth for richness. Fresh thyme or parsley enhance the flavor; dried versions are fine if fresh isn’t available. Add herbs early for a subtle infusion, or at the end for brightness.
Butter & Flour:
Butter adds richness and helps sauté ingredients; flour thickens the stew. For a heartier texture, use all-purpose flour. Gluten-free? Try cornstarch mixed with cold water as a thickener instead.
How do I ensure the mushrooms get tender and packed with flavor?
Start by slicing mushrooms evenly and cooking them in hot butter or oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed. Sauté until they turn golden and their moisture evaporates—this develops flavor and tenderizes them.
- Cook mushrooms until browned, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove excess liquid so they don’t stew in their own moisture, which helps develop a deeper flavor.
- Then, add other ingredients to build the stew, so mushrooms stay tender but flavorful.
How to Make Creamy Mushroom Stew?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables
- 1 pound mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Liquids
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Seasonings & Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep time: 10 minutes; Cook time: 20 minutes; Total: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes. Then add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 8 minutes.
2. Add garlic and seasonings
Stir in minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in liquids
Add vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes to let flavors meld.
4. Stir in cream
Lower heat. Mix in heavy cream. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the stew thickens slightly.
5. Serve hot
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve the stew warm with bread or rice. Enjoy!
