If you’ve ever wished for a simple, homemade shortcut to elevate casseroles, sauces, and creamy dishes, then this Homemade Condensed Cream Soup Recipe is your new best friend. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, made with everyday ingredients, and tastes so much richer and fresher than anything canned. This recipe proves that making your own condensed soup can add depth of flavor and a comforting homemade touch to all your classic comfort foods.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Homemade Condensed Cream Soup Recipe is in its beautifully simple ingredient list. Each one plays a crucial role—from creating that velvety texture to layering the savory notes that make the soup so versatile and delicious.
- Butter: Provides a rich, creamy base and helps cook the flour perfectly for thickening.
- Flour: Acts as the thickening agent, giving the soup that classic condensed cream soup consistency.
- Milk: Adds creaminess and smooth texture without overpowering the flavors.
- Chicken broth (or vegetable broth): Gives depth and a savory backbone to the soup.
- Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors beautifully.
- Black pepper: Gives a gentle, subtle kick that brightens the whole dish.
- Garlic powder: Adds warmth and complexity without being too intense.
How to Make Homemade Condensed Cream Soup Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. This step is essential because it creates the perfect fat base, which allows the flour to cook properly and avoid any raw taste.
Step 2: Whisk in the Flour
Next, add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes. You’re looking for the mixture to turn a lovely golden brown, which means the flour has cooked enough to develop flavor and prevent gumminess.
Step 3: Slowly Add Milk and Broth
Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to keep the mixture smooth. This slow addition helps the flour mixture absorb the liquids evenly, preventing lumps and ensuring a silky texture.
Step 4: Cook Until Thickened
Allow the soup to simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes. During this time, it will thicken beautifully into that classic condensed cream soup consistency. Patience here pays off for rich, creamy results.
Step 5: Season to Perfection
Stir in your salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This final seasoning step ties all the flavors together, giving you a balanced taste that will enhance any recipe you add it to.
Step 6: Ready to Use or Store
Once thickened and seasoned, use this Homemade Condensed Cream Soup Recipe immediately in your favorite dishes, or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days to enjoy later.
How to Serve Homemade Condensed Cream Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the soup’s creamy richness by adding garnishes like freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits, or a dash of grated Parmesan. These little touches add a pop of color and flavor that make the dish even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This soup base pairs wonderfully with simple side dishes such as garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh mixed green salad. These sides harmonize with the creamy texture while keeping the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Beyond using this soup as a base, try spooning it over steamed rice or baked potatoes for a comforting meal. You can also use it in casseroles, as the heart of creamy sauces, or blended with cooked mushrooms or herbs to create unique flavor combinations that surprise and delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply transfer your leftover homemade condensed cream soup to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and ready to use within five days, making busy weeknight dinners easier than ever.
Freezing
If you want to save your Homemade Condensed Cream Soup Recipe for longer, freezing is a great option. Pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to restore its creamy smoothness. If it seems too thick after reheating, whisk in a little milk or broth to reach your desired consistency again.
FAQs
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine and use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Just make sure to use a vegetable broth to keep it completely dairy-free.
Can I use this soup as a base for other flavors?
Yes, it’s a fantastic blank canvas. You can add mushrooms, cheese, herbs, or spices to customize it for different recipes or tastes.
How thick should the soup be?
The soup should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon—similar to a traditional canned condensed soup. If it gets too thick, simply whisk in a little extra broth or milk to loosen it up.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
You can easily make it vegan by swapping butter with plant-based alternatives and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! This recipe scales up well. Just be sure to whisk continuously when adding liquids to avoid lumps when making larger batches.
Final Thoughts
Making your own Homemade Condensed Cream Soup Recipe opens a whole new world of flavors and wholesome ingredients right in your kitchen. It’s quick, satisfying, and offers a fresh alternative to canned soups that can elevate any meal effortlessly. Don’t be surprised if this handy little recipe becomes your secret weapon for countless delicious dishes!
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Homemade Condensed Cream Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 to 1 1/2 cups 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Homemade Condensed Cream Soup is a versatile and easy-to-make base perfect for a variety of recipes. Creamy and flavorful, it combines butter, flour, milk, and broth to create a thick, rich soup without any preservatives or additives. Ideal for using in casseroles, sauces, or as a comforting standalone dish.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Melting Butter: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat to create a base for the roux.
- Cooking Flour: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a golden brown, which develops a nutty flavor and will help thicken the soup.
- Adding Liquids: Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to ensure a smooth and lump-free mixture.
- Thickening Soup: Cook the mixture for 5-7 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
- Seasoning: Stir in the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed for balanced flavor.
- Storage or Use: Use the condensed soup immediately in your favorite recipes or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make it vegetarian.
- Adjust thickness by cooking longer to thicken further or adding more milk/broth to thin it out.
- Use as a healthier alternative to canned condensed soups.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and vegan butter substitutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Soup Base
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
