Mushroom & Caramelized Onion Soup with Cheesy Toasties and Bacon

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Introduction

Warm up with this rich and savory Mushroom & Caramelized Onion Soup, bursting with earthy mushroom flavors, sweet caramelized onions, and a hint of smokiness from crispy bacon. Paired with gooey cheesy toasties, this cozy meal is perfect for chilly days. In this blog post, we’ll provide a detailed step-by-step recipe for this comforting dish.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Soup:

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 slices bacon, chopped
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb (450g) mushrooms (mix of button, cremini, or shiitake), sliced
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, for depth)
  • 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for added creaminess)

For the Cheesy Toasties:

  • 4 slices crusty bread (like baguette or sourdough)
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère, Swiss, or sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

  1. Cook the Bacon:
  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
  1. Caramelize the Onions:
  • Add the butter and olive oil to the pot. Once melted, add the thinly sliced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.
  1. Add Garlic and Mushrooms:
  • Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook until the mushrooms are softened and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.
  1. Deglaze with Wine (Optional):
  • Pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the wine has reduced slightly.

  1. Add Broth and Herbs:
  • Stir in the beef or vegetable broth and fresh thyme leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
  1. Add Cream (Optional):
  • If desired, stir in the heavy cream for added creaminess. Continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
  1. Prepare the Cheesy Toasties:
  • While the soup simmers, preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Butter one side of each slice of crusty bread. Place the bread, buttered side down, in the skillet. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over each slice. Cook until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes.

  1. Serve:
  • Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with the crispy bacon. Serve with the cheesy toasties on the side for dipping.

Description

Mushroom & Caramelized Onion Soup with Cheesy Toasties and Bacon is a hearty and comforting meal that combines the rich flavors of earthy mushrooms, sweet caramelized onions, and smoky bacon. The creamy broth and melted cheese toasties add a luxurious touch, making this dish perfect for chilly days. Whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy dinner or a comforting lunch, this soup is sure to warm you up.

Nutritional Information

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl with cheesy toastie
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 20g

Conclusion

Mushroom & Caramelized Onion Soup with Cheesy Toasties and Bacon is a delightful and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich, savory flavors and creamy texture make it a standout dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving it for a special celebration or a cozy weeknight dinner, this soup is sure to delight.

Recommendation

Pair this soup with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Serve with a glass of your favorite wine or a warm cup of tea for the perfect dining experience. The combination of savory soup and cheesy toasties makes this dish a true comfort food classic.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While this soup is indulgent, you can make small adjustments for a slightly healthier version. Consider using reduced-fat cheese, reducing the amount of butter, or incorporating more fresh vegetables. Enjoy this delicious meal in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

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