Mushroom & caramelized onion soup with cheesy toasties is the perfect meal for anyone who loves rich, savory flavors with a touch of indulgence. The combination of caramelized onions and earthy mushrooms creates a deep, comforting broth, while the crispy cheesy toasties add a delightful crunch and gooey goodness that elevates this soup to a whole new level. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or an appetizer to impress your guests, this soup is sure to satisfy.

The sweetness of the caramelized onions complements the umami of the mushrooms, and the addition of vegetable broth creates a deliciously smooth and flavorful base. The cheesy toasties, with their melted cheese and golden-brown toast, provide the perfect contrast in texture. This soup is not only hearty and comforting, but it’s also a true crowd-pleaser, and it’s simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich & Flavorful

The combination of caramelized onions, garlic, and mushrooms creates a broth that’s rich and savory, perfect for cozying up with on a cold day.

2. Simple Ingredients

Using just a handful of ingredients, this soup packs a punch in terms of flavor, proving that less can be more.

3. Hearty & Filling

The soup itself is satisfying on its own, but the cheesy toasties take it to the next level, making it a complete meal.

4. Vegetarian

This recipe is vegetarian-friendly and can easily be made vegan by using plant-based cheese and vegetable broth.

5. Customizable

Feel free to add additional herbs or spices such as thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor of the soup. You can also adjust the amount of cheese for the toasties depending on your preference.

Ingredients

Olive oil (2 tbsp)
Onions, sliced (2 large)
Garlic, minced (2 cloves)
Mushrooms, sliced (1 lb)
Vegetable broth (4 cups)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Bread slices (4 slices)
Shredded cheese (1 cup, such as Gruyere or cheddar)

Variations

Vegan Version: Use plant-based cheese and vegetable broth to make this recipe vegan.
Add Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves can be added while cooking the soup for extra aroma and flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy version of this soup.
Different Cheese: Try different types of cheese like Swiss, provolone, or mozzarella for the toasties for a unique twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and caramelized, about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 2: Cook the Garlic and Mushrooms

Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the pot with the onions. Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and become golden brown.

Step 3: Add the Broth

Pour the vegetable broth into the pot and stir to combine. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheesy Toasties

While the soup simmers, toast the bread slices in a toaster or on a grill pan. Once the bread is toasted, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top of each slice. Place the bread under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the hot soup into bowls, and top with a cheesy toasty. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting, flavorful dish!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Caramelizing the onions: Be patient when caramelizing the onions. It may take up to 20 minutes for them to turn golden brown and develop their sweet flavor.
Avoid overcrowding the mushrooms: Make sure to give the mushrooms space in the pan so they cook evenly and release their moisture.
Use high-quality cheese: For the best cheesy toasties, opt for a high-quality cheese like Gruyere, which melts beautifully and adds rich flavor.
Make ahead: You can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving.

How to Serve

This mushroom and caramelized onion soup is best served with the cheesy toasties on top or on the side for dipping. You can also serve it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. Pair it with a glass of white wine or a light beer for the perfect meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months. However, the texture of the cheesy toasties may change after storing, so it’s best to store them separately if possible.

Freezing

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

Reheating

To reheat the soup, place it in a pot over low heat and stir occasionally. For the cheesy toasties, it’s best to make them fresh, but you can reheat the soup and toast the bread just before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese for the toasties?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Swiss, for the cheesy toasties.

3. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free bread and ensure your vegetable broth is gluten-free to make this soup suitable for a gluten-free diet.

4. Can I add meat to this soup?

While this soup is vegetarian, you can add cooked bacon, sausage, or shredded chicken for added protein.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months.

6. Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, simply use plant-based cheese and vegetable broth to make this soup vegan-friendly.

7. Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup after it has cooled. Reheat it on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

8. How can I make the soup spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for some extra heat.

9. What type of bread should I use for the cheesy toasties?

You can use any type of bread, but a crusty baguette or rustic sourdough works great for the toasties.

10. Can I add more vegetables to the soup?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or leeks to the soup for added flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Mushroom & caramelized onion soup with cheesy toasties is the ultimate comfort food, blending earthy mushrooms, sweet onions, and a rich broth with the irresistible crunch of cheesy toasties. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for a cozy meal. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it to guests, this soup is sure to be a hit!