Microwave Cream of Mushroom Soup (Cheap and Cozy)


Microwave Cream of Mushroom Soup (Cheap and Cozy)

A creamy bowl of microwave-made cream of mushroom soup topped with sautéed mushrooms and parsley, sitting beside a microwave and croutons on a white countertop.


This Microwave Cream of Mushroom Soup is perfect for dorm cooking, tiny kitchens, or anyone who wants a cozy, creamy soup without a stove. It’s cheap, fast, and uses simple ingredients you can find anywhere. If you like easy microwave meals, try Microwave Pimientos Stuffed or Microwave Marry Me Chicken next.

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Microwave-friendly: Mushrooms soften quickly, so no long simmering needed.
  • Budget ingredients: Uses cheap staples like mushrooms, milk, and bouillon.
  • Rich flavor: A quick microwave roux gives the soup real creaminess.
  • Dorm-safe: No stove, no pan, no long cooking time.

Microwave Cream of Mushroom Soup

Servings: 1–2   |   Prep Time: 5 minutes   |   Cook Time: 7 minutes


Ingredients

  • ½ cup chopped mushrooms (fresh or canned)
  • 1 cup water + ½ bouillon cube
  • ¼ cup milk (or evaporated milk)
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp flour
  • Salt + pepper to taste
  • Optional: tiny squeeze lemon or pinch nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Cook mushrooms: Combine mushrooms, water, and bouillon in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave 4 minutes until soft.
  2. Thicken: In a small cup, microwave butter + flour for 30–40 seconds until bubbly. Stir this roux into the mushroom mixture.
  3. Add dairy: Stir in milk. Microwave 2 minutes, stir, then microwave 1 more minute until creamy.

Estimated Cost (Approximate)

  • Mushrooms: $0.60
  • Bouillon + water: $0.10
  • Milk: $0.20
  • Butter + flour: $0.10

Total cost: ~$1.00   |   Cost per serving: ~$0.50

Substitutions

  • Mushrooms: Use canned mushrooms or mushroom stems.
  • Milk: Use evaporated milk or half-and-half.
  • Bouillon: Any flavor works — chicken, vegetable, or beef.

Variations

  • Extra creamy: Add 1–2 tbsp cream cheese.
  • Chunky: Skip blending and leave mushrooms whole.
  • Low-fat: Use only milk, no butter.

Storage

  • Fridge: 2 days.
  • Reheat: Microwave 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway.

Step-by-Step

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Microwave Cream of Mushroom Soup — Step‑by‑Step Guide


Seasoning Options

  • Classic: Salt, pepper, garlic powder.
  • Spicy: Paprika, chili powder, cayenne.
  • Herby: Thyme, rosemary, parsley.
  • Umami: Soy sauce or Worcestershire.

Serving Ideas

  • With microwave garlic bread.
  • Poured over rice.
  • As a base for noodles.

Oil Alternatives

  • No oil: Works fine since this is a soup.
  • Butter: Best flavor.
  • Margarine: Cheapest option.

Dipping Sauces

  • Garlic mayo
  • Chili crisp
  • Ranch
  • Hot sauce

Tips for Extra Creaminess

  • Use evaporated milk for richer texture.
  • Stir between microwaving steps.
  • Add a tiny bit of butter at the end.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Skipping the roux — the soup will be thin.
  • Microwaving dairy too long without stirring.
  • Using too much bouillon (makes it salty).

FAQ

Can I use canned mushrooms?

Yes — they work perfectly and soften even faster.

Can I make this without butter?

Yes, but the soup will be thinner. Add a spoon of cream cheese instead.

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