Homemade 8 Cans Campbell Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe: A Healthier, Customizable Classic

Category: Soup

Introduction

Campbell's Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup has been a pantry staple for over a century, beloved for its rich, creamy flavor and versatility in countless recipes. Since its invention in 1955, it has become a cornerstone in American cuisine, featured in everything from casseroles to sauces. However, many home cooks are now seeking healthier, customizable alternatives that retain the iconic taste but offer better nutritional value.

This recipe recreates the magic of Campbell's Cream of Mushroom Soup using fresh, wholesome ingredients. By making it at home, you can reduce sodium, avoid preservatives, and tailor the flavor to your liking. Plus, it’s cost-effective and easy to scale for large families or meal prep.

I remember the first time I made this homemade version for a family dinner. The reaction was immediate—everyone raved about the depth of flavor and creamy texture, asking if it was really homemade! It’s since become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m excited to share it with you.

Why Make It at Home?

• Healthier: Reduce sodium and avoid preservatives found in store-bought versions.
• Customizable: Adjust spices, use fresh mushrooms, or make it gluten-free or vegan.
• Cost-Effective: Homemade versions often cost less than buying multiple cans.
• Flavor: Fresh ingredients bring a brighter, more vibrant taste than shelf-stable products.

Personal Anecdote

One chilly fall evening, I decided to recreate Campbell's Cream of Mushroom Soup from scratch for a comforting casserole. After hours of trial and error, I nailed the recipe, and it quickly became a family favorite. The best part? It tasted better than the original, with a freshness that store-bought cans just can’t match.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:20 minutes
• **Cook Time:35 minutes
• **Total Time:55 minutes
• **Yield:8 servings (equivalent to 8 cans of condensed soup)

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp (30g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version)
• 1 tsp (5g) onion powder
• 1 tsp (5g) garlic powder
• 1 tsp (5g) salt (or low-sodium salt)
• 1/2 tsp (2g) black pepper
• 1/2 tsp (2g) dried thyme

Wet Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter (or vegan butter substitute)
• 2 cups (250ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half or plant-based milk for a lighter version)
• 4 cups (1L) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, warmed
• 1 cup (250ml) whole milk (or plant-based milk)

Mushroom Base:

• 2 cups (120g) fresh mushrooms (button, cremini, or a mix), finely chopped
• 1/4 cup (30g) dried porcini mushrooms (optional, for added depth)
• 2 cloves (6g) garlic, minced

Instructions

• Prepare the Mushroom Base:

• In a small bowl, rehydrate the dried porcini mushrooms (if using) by soaking them in 1/4 cup (60ml) of hot water for 10 minutes. Strain and reserve the liquid.

  • In a large saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the fresh mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 8-10 minutes.
  • Add the garlic and rehydrated porcini mushrooms (and their liquid) to the saucepan. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

• Make the Roux:

• In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.

  • Add the flour and whisk continuously to form a roux, cooking for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden and nutty-smelling.

• Combine the Mixtures:

• Gradually pour the warmed broth into the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until thickened.

  • Stir in the heavy cream and whole milk. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy.

• Blend and Season:

• Add the cooked mushroom mixture to the saucepan with the cream mixture. Stir well to combine.

  • Using an immersion blender (or transferring to a blender in batches), puree the soup until smooth.
  • Return the soup to the saucepan and stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and thyme. Adjust seasoning to taste.

• Simmer and Concentrate:

• Simmer the soup over low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired consistency. For a condensed version, reduce the soup by cooking it longer or adding less broth.

• Can or Store:

• Pour the soup into sterilized jars or airtight containers. Let it cool before refrigerating or freezing.

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Replace flour with gluten-free flour and ensure the broth is gluten-free.
• Vegan: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and vegetable broth.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a kick.
• Smoky: Stir in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or liquid smoke.

Pro Tips

• Enhance Flavor: Roast fresh mushrooms in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes before chopping for a deeper, earthier flavor.
• Avoid Lumps: Whisk constantly when adding the broth to the roux to ensure a smooth texture.
• Customize: Add a splash of sherry or a tablespoon of soy sauce for added depth.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh ingredients instead of dried mushrooms?
  Yes! Use 3 cups of fresh mushrooms and omit the dried porcini for a fresher taste.
• What if the soup is too runny?
  Simmer longer or mix in a little more flour to thicken.
• Can I make it vegan?
  Absolutely! Use plant-based milk and vegan butter.
• How long does it last in the fridge?
  Up to 5 days in the fridge or 3 months frozen.
• Can I scale the recipe?
  Double or halve the ingredients as needed.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Casserole: Use as a base for green bean casserole or creamy pasta bakes.
• Dip: Thin with a little milk for a delicious dip for chips or veggies.
• Soup: Dilute with water or broth for a comforting, ready-to-eat soup.
• Sauce: Toss with cooked pasta, chicken, or steamed veggies.

Conclusion

This homemade version of Campbell's Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup captures the iconic flavor while offering a healthier, customizable alternative. With fewer preservatives, less sodium, and the ability to tailor ingredients to your preferences, it’s a game-changer for home cooks. Try it tonight and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a classic from scratch!

Let me know how it turns out, and feel free to share your favorite ways to use it!