Irresistible Creamy Steak and Ale Soup with Mushrooms : A Hearty Comfort Classic

Posted on August 17, 2025 ·

By Lyndy

a pan filled with meat and mushrooms on top of a stove

When cold weather calls for something hearty, there’s nothing more satisfying than a bowl of Steak and Ale Soup with Mushrooms. This creamy, savory soup is loaded with tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and a subtle ale flavor that gives it that pub-style depth we all crave. Whether you’re warming up after a chilly day or hosting a cozy dinner night, this creamy steak and ale soup is a rich, soul-satisfying option that brings comfort in every spoonful.

Why This Creamy Steak and Ale Soup Is a Must-Try

This isn’t just any mushroom soup—it’s a slow-simmered, velvety-rich dish that combines the bold flavors of seared steak, the umami of mushrooms, and a touch of ale for depth. Here’s why it’s worth making:

Ingredients for Steak and Ale Soup with Mushrooms

To create this hearty traditional mushroom soup dish, you’ll need:

  • 1½ pounds sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 12 ounces mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
  • 1 tablespoon flour
  • 1 cup ale (choose a mild, malty style)
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: fresh thyme or parsley for garnish

This combo delivers bold, layered flavors while keeping the ingredient list clean and approachable.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need much to pull off this warm and flavorful dish. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:

  • Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Ladle for serving

How to Make Creamy Steak and Mushroom Soup (Step-by-Step)

Step 1 – Sear the steak:
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add steak cubes in a single layer (work in batches if needed), season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 2 – Sauté the veggies:
Add another tablespoon of oil to the pot. Stir in the onions and mushrooms and cook until softened and golden brown, about 7–9 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.

Step 3 – Build the base:
Sprinkle in the flour and stir until it coats the vegetables. Pour in the ale, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to let the alcohol cook off.

Step 4 – Simmer the soup:
Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and cooked steak back into the pot. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5 – Finish with cream:
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Warm through without boiling. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6 – Serve hot:
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve with warm crusty bread or a slice of Garlic Herb Jalapeño Cheddar Bread.

Tips for the Best Steak and Mushrooms Soup Texture and Flavor

  • Choose the right steak: Sirloin or ribeye gives you tender, flavorful bites.
  • Don’t rush the mushrooms: Let them brown properly for a deeper flavor.
  • Use real ale: A mild English ale or amber ale works best.
  • Let it rest: Like many soups, the flavor improves after sitting for 30 minutes or more.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Golden Mushroom Soup Recipes

  • Overcooking the steak: Sear quickly and finish cooking in the broth.
  • Skipping the flour: It’s essential for thickening the soup base.
  • Boiling the cream: This can cause it to separate—keep it at a low simmer.
  • Using too strong a beer: Avoid IPAs; they can overpower the dish.

Variations on This Traditional Mushroom Soup Dish

Looking to switch things up? Try these simple variations:

  • Dairy-free: Use full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
  • Ale-free: Substitute with more broth or non-alcoholic beer.
  • Hearty stew version: Add diced potatoes or parsnips to bulk it up.
  • Low-carb: Skip flour and use xanthan gum or a touch of almond flour.

Serving Suggestions for Steak and Ale Soup

This creamy mushroom soup winter recipe is perfect served with:

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Mushroom Soup in Winter

To store: Cool completely and refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 4 days.

To freeze: Omit the cream before freezing. Reheat and add cream just before serving to prevent separation.

To reheat: Warm gently over medium heat on the stovetop. Avoid boiling to preserve the creamy texture.

What Makes This a Perfect Creamy Mushroom Soup for Winter?

Everything about this soup says comfort food. The warmth, the creaminess, the richness of the steak, and the earthiness of the mushrooms create a winter-perfect dish. It’s ideal for cold nights, cozy weekends, or even holiday menus that call for rustic elegance.

Steak and Ale Soup FAQ

What kind of ale is best?
Go for a mild, malty ale. Avoid overly hoppy beers like IPAs.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free flour and double-check your Worcestershire sauce and ale.

Can I prep this ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can make the full soup a day in advance—just reheat gently and add cream before serving if freezing.

Can I use a slow cooker?
Yes, but it’s best to brown the meat and mushrooms first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours. Stir in cream at the end.

Final Thoughts: Rich, Creamy, and Satisfying

This steak and ale soup with mushrooms is everything a winter dish should be—hearty, warm, and packed with deep, comforting flavors. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or curling up with a bowl by the fire, this creamy soup will quickly become a seasonal favorite. Try it once, and it may just replace your go-to stew.

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Cozy and Hearty Steak and Ale Soup with Mushrooms


  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Steak and Ale Soup with Mushrooms is the ultimate comfort food for cold nights. Tender steak, earthy mushrooms, caramelized onions, and a malty ale-spiked creamy broth come together in one hearty, soul-warming bowl. Perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, or freezing for later!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) sirloin or chuck steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button)
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups beef broth
  • 1 cup ale (or non-alcoholic malt beverage)
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional garnish: chopped parsley or chives

Instructions

  1. Sear Steak: Heat olive oil in a large pot. Season steak with salt and pepper, then sear 4–5 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté Veggies: Add butter, then onions. Cook 5 minutes until softened. Stir in mushrooms and cook 5–6 minutes until golden. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  3. Add Flour: Sprinkle flour and stir to coat vegetables evenly.
  4. Deglaze: Slowly pour in ale, scraping browned bits. Add broth, thyme, and steak. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook 20 minutes.
  5. Add Cream: Stir in heavy cream and simmer 5 minutes more. Season to taste.
  6. Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with herbs, and serve with crusty bread.

Notes

  • Cut steak into even small cubes for tenderness.
  • Brown in batches if needed to avoid steaming.
  • Add cream at the end to prevent curdling.
  • For gluten-free, replace flour with cornstarch slurry.
  • Freezes well for up to 2 months.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, Pub-Style

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 390
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Steak and Ale Soup, Creamy Steak Mushroom Soup, Pub-Style Ale Soup, Comfort Food, Winter Soup Recipes

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