Creamy Asparagus and Mushroom Soup

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Creamy Asparagus and Mushroom Soup.

1. Step 1

   Begin by heating a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat and add the bacon.

2. Step 2

   Cook it, turning occasionally, until it reaches a beautiful golden brown, which should take about 10 minutes.

3. Step 3

   Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces.

4. Step 4

   Reserve a tablespoon of the flavorful bacon drippings in a small bowl and set the skillet aside for later use.

5. Step 5

   In a large saucepan, melt the butter along with the reserved bacon drippings over medium heat.

6. Step 6

   Toss in the chopped celery and diced onion, stirring until the onion turns translucent, which should take around 4 minutes.

7. Step 7

   Whisk in the flour and let it cook for an additional minute to create a roux.

8. Step 8

   Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously until the mixture comes to a boil.

9. Step 9

   Add the diced potato and chopped asparagus stalks, seasoning generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

10. Step 10

    Lower the heat and allow the soup to simmer for 20 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.

11. Step 11

    When ready, carefully transfer the soup to a blender, filling it no more than halfway.

12. Step 12

    Secure the lid with a folded kitchen towel and pulse quickly to get things moving before blending until silky smooth.

13. Step 13

    Alternatively, you can use a stick blender to purée the soup right in the pot for a more rustic approach.

14. Step 14

    In the same skillet where you cooked the bacon, sauté the sliced mushrooms and reserved asparagus tips, stirring until the mushrooms release their liquid, which should take about 5 to 8 minutes.

15. Step 15

    Season with salt and pepper to taste.

16. Step 16

    Stir the sautéed mushrooms, asparagus tips, and half-and-half cream into the velvety puréed soup, heating gently until everything is warmed through.

17. Step 17

    Ladle the soup into bowls and finish with a sprinkle of crumbled bacon on top for that perfect crunch.

18. Step 18

    Enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness that brings warmth and flavor to your table.