Rich, creamy, and packed with umami flavors, this Weight Watchers Creamy Mushroom Soup is the perfect comfort dish for any season. It’s a healthier take on a classic recipe, combining earthy mushrooms, silky broth, and creamy goodness without excess calories or points. This low-SmartPoint soup is ideal for lunch, dinner, or even as an appetizer, offering a warm and satisfying option that’s full of flavor but kind to your waistline.
This recipe is optimized for Weight Watchers, so you can enjoy it guilt-free while still savoring the rich, decadent taste you love. Let’s dive into this detailed recipe for your website!
Ingredients (Serves 6)
For the Soup Base
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb (16 oz) mushrooms, sliced (a mix of white button, cremini, or baby bella mushrooms works best)
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or another non-dairy milk)
- ¼ cup plain unsweetened Greek yogurt (or plant-based yogurt for vegan option)
For Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added depth)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon green onions, sliced (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Mushrooms
- Wipe the mushrooms clean with a damp cloth or paper towel. Avoid rinsing directly under water, as mushrooms absorb moisture and may become soggy.
- Slice the mushrooms thinly, ensuring even sizes for consistent cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic, carrot, and celery, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot. Stir well to coat them in the oil and allow them to cook down for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mushrooms should release their juices and reduce in size.
- Sprinkle in the thyme, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
Step 4: Build the Broth
- Pour in the vegetable broth and stir to combine. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Blend for Creaminess
- Remove the soup from heat. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup to your desired consistency. For a chunkier texture, blend only part of the soup.
- Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender, ensuring not to overfill to avoid spillage.
Step 6: Add the Creaminess
- Stir in the almond milk and Greek yogurt until fully incorporated.
- Reheat the soup gently on low heat, ensuring it does not boil to prevent the yogurt from curdling.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with fresh parsley and green onions for added freshness and a pop of color.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, hearty flavors.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings)
- Calories: 90
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Fat: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
Weight Watchers SmartPoints
- Green Plan: ~2 SmartPoints per serving
- Blue Plan: ~1 SmartPoint per serving
- Purple Plan: ~1 SmartPoint per serving
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Mushrooms: Use a variety of mushrooms like cremini or shiitake for a deeper, richer flavor profile.
- Immersion Blender Technique: For easier cleanup, an immersion blender is perfect for blending soups directly in the pot.
- Add More Veggies: Consider adding zucchini or spinach for added nutrients and bulk.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt or omit it entirely and increase the almond milk for creaminess.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the soup gently over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain its creamy texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low-Point Comfort Food: Creamy and satisfying without the guilt.
- Versatile and Customizable: Adapt the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Great for making ahead and storing for busy weekdays.
Pairings and Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side salad for a light, balanced meal.
- Serve with a slice of whole-grain or sourdough bread for dipping.
- Enjoy as a starter for a hearty dinner or as a comforting lunch on a chilly day.
This Weight Watchers Creamy Mushroom Soup is proof that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for health. With its luscious texture, savory flavor, and low SmartPoints, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy every spoonful of this cozy, wholesome dish!