How Many Calories Are in Cream of Mushroom Soup?

AvatarByNora Gaines Soup & Stew

Cream of mushroom soup is a comforting classic enjoyed in many households, whether as a warm appetizer, a savory ingredient in recipes, or a simple, satisfying meal on its own. Its creamy texture and rich, earthy flavor make it a popular choice year-round. But for those mindful of their dietary intake, one common question arises: how many calories are in cream of mushroom soup?

Understanding the calorie content of this beloved soup is essential for anyone tracking their nutrition, managing weight, or simply aiming to make informed food choices. Cream of mushroom soup can vary widely in calories depending on how it’s prepared—whether it’s a homemade version with fresh ingredients or a canned variety from the grocery store. These variations can significantly impact its nutritional profile.

Before diving into specific calorie counts, it’s helpful to consider the factors that influence the soup’s calorie content, such as the type of cream used, added fats, and portion size. This overview will set the stage for a closer look at the nutritional details, helping you enjoy your cream of mushroom soup while staying aligned with your health goals.

Caloric Content of Different Types of Cream of Mushroom Soup

The calorie content in cream of mushroom soup can vary significantly depending on the recipe, brand, and preparation method. Traditional canned varieties often contain added fats, sodium, and preservatives that influence the overall calorie count. Homemade versions provide more control over ingredients, allowing for healthier, lower-calorie options.

Several factors affect the calorie content:

  • Type of milk or cream used: Whole milk and heavy cream increase calories, while skim milk or plant-based alternatives reduce them.
  • Butter and oil content: Added fats elevate calories.
  • Thickening agents: Flour or cornstarch can contribute calories but generally in small amounts.
  • Portion size: Serving size directly impacts total calorie intake.

Below is a comparison of common cream of mushroom soup options and their typical calorie counts per 1-cup (245g) serving.

Type of Soup Calories per 1 cup (245g) Fat (g) Carbohydrates (g) Protein (g)
Commercial Canned (Regular) 90-110 5-7 8-12 2-3
Low-Fat or Reduced-Fat Canned 60-80 2-3 8-10 2-3
Homemade with Heavy Cream 150-200 12-15 8-10 3-4
Homemade with Skim Milk 70-90 1-3 8-10 3-4
Vegan (using plant-based milk) 50-80 2-5 6-9 1-2

Factors Influencing Calorie Variations

The variation in calories among different cream of mushroom soups is primarily due to ingredient choices and manufacturing processes. For example, the use of heavy cream dramatically increases fat and calorie content compared to milk or plant-based alternatives. Additionally, some commercial soups include added sugars or thickeners that contribute extra carbohydrates and calories.

Ingredients like butter or oil used in sautéing mushrooms add to the fat content. Sodium levels, while not directly impacting calories, can influence water retention and appetite, indirectly affecting calorie consumption.

Packaging and preparation also matter. Condensed soups require dilution with water or milk, altering the final calorie intake per serving. Ready-to-eat soups are usually less concentrated but may contain higher sodium or preservatives.

Strategies to Reduce Calories in Cream of Mushroom Soup

For those seeking to enjoy cream of mushroom soup while managing calorie intake, consider the following approaches:

  • Use low-fat or skim milk instead of cream to reduce fat and calories.
  • Incorporate vegetable broth to add flavor without calories.
  • Limit added fats by sautéing mushrooms in minimal oil or using non-stick spray.
  • Add thickening agents sparingly or use alternatives like pureed cauliflower to maintain texture.
  • Choose fresh mushrooms over canned or dried varieties to avoid additives.
  • Modify recipes to include herbs and spices for flavor enhancement without calories.

Nutritional Considerations Beyond Calories

While calories are a key consideration, cream of mushroom soup also provides other nutritional benefits and considerations:

  • Protein: Mushrooms and milk contribute moderate protein, supporting muscle maintenance.
  • Fiber: Mushrooms offer dietary fiber, aiding digestion.
  • Vitamins and minerals: Mushrooms are a good source of B vitamins, selenium, and potassium.
  • Sodium: Commercial soups often have high sodium levels, which may be a concern for individuals managing blood pressure.
  • Fat quality: The type of fat used (saturated vs. unsaturated) affects heart health.

Balancing calorie intake with these nutritional factors ensures that cream of mushroom soup can be part of a healthy diet when consumed mindfully.

Caloric Content of Cream of Mushroom Soup

Cream of mushroom soup is a popular ingredient and standalone dish often used in cooking due to its creamy texture and rich flavor. Understanding its caloric content is essential for dietary planning and nutritional awareness.

The calorie count in cream of mushroom soup varies depending on whether it is homemade or commercially prepared, as well as the specific recipe and portion size.

  • Homemade Cream of Mushroom Soup: Typically made with fresh mushrooms, cream, butter, flour, and broth, the calorie content depends on the amount of cream and butter used.
  • Canned or Packaged Cream of Mushroom Soup: Commercial versions often include preservatives, starches, and sometimes added sugars, which can affect calorie density.
Type of Cream of Mushroom Soup Serving Size Calories per Serving Notes
Homemade (Traditional Recipe) 1 cup (240 ml) 150 – 190 kcal Varies with cream and butter quantities
Canned (Condensed, Regular) 1/2 cup (120 ml) condensed 90 – 110 kcal Needs dilution before serving
Canned (Ready-to-Serve) 1 cup (240 ml) 130 – 160 kcal Pre-diluted and ready for consumption
Low-Fat or Reduced-Calorie Versions 1 cup (240 ml) 70 – 100 kcal Uses skim milk or milk substitutes

Factors Influencing Calorie Variation

Several factors influence the calorie content in cream of mushroom soup, which can alter the nutritional profile significantly:

  • Fat Content: The use of heavy cream or whole milk increases calories compared to skim milk or milk alternatives.
  • Butter and Oil: Butter or oil added during sautéing mushrooms or making the roux adds to the calorie total.
  • Thickening Agents: Flour or cornstarch used for thickening adds carbohydrates and calories.
  • Mushroom Quantity: While mushrooms are low in calories, the amount used can slightly affect the total.
  • Additional Ingredients: Cheese, sour cream, or added sugars increase caloric density.
  • Preparation Method: Homemade soups can be tailored for fewer calories by reducing fat or using broth-based recipes.

Nutritional Breakdown per Typical Serving

Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown for one cup (240 ml) of standard cream of mushroom soup prepared from a typical homemade recipe:

Nutrient Amount Percentage of Daily Value* (DV)
Calories 160 kcal 8%
Total Fat 10 g 15%
Saturated Fat 6 g 30%
Cholesterol 30 mg 10%
Sodium 600 mg 25%
Carbohydrates 12 g 4%
Dietary Fiber 1 g 4%
Protein 4 g 8%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet and may vary depending on individual calorie needs.

Tips for Reducing Calories in Cream of Mushroom Soup

Reducing the calorie content of cream of mushroom soup can be achieved without sacrificing flavor by applying the following strategies:

  • Use low-fat or skim milk instead of heavy cream.
  • Replace butter with olive oil or use a smaller amount.
  • Incorporate more mushrooms and vegetable broth to increase volume and reduce calorie density.
  • Use whole wheat or alternative flours sparingly as thickening agents.
  • Add herbs and spices for flavor enhancement rather than relying on salt or creaminess.
    • Expert Perspectives on Caloric Content in Cream of Mushroom Soup

    Dr. Linda Marshall (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). Cream of mushroom soup typically contains between 70 to 120 calories per half-cup serving, depending largely on the recipe and brand. Variations in cream content, added thickeners, and sodium levels can significantly influence the caloric density, so consumers should always check nutritional labels for accuracy.

    James Carter (Food Chemist and Culinary Researcher, Culinary Science Institute). The caloric content in cream of mushroom soup arises primarily from fats and carbohydrates present in the cream and flour used as a thickener. Homemade versions can be tailored to reduce calories by substituting heavy cream with low-fat milk or broth, which can cut the calorie count by nearly half without compromising flavor.

    Dr. Emily Nguyen (Clinical Nutritionist and Public Health Expert). When considering how many calories are in cream of mushroom soup, it is important to also factor in portion sizes and frequency of consumption. While a standard serving might be moderate in calories, frequent intake alongside other high-calorie foods can contribute to excessive daily caloric intake, impacting weight management goals.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    How many calories are in one cup of cream of mushroom soup?
    One cup of cream of mushroom soup typically contains between 100 to 150 calories, depending on the brand and recipe.

    Do homemade cream of mushroom soups have fewer calories than canned versions?
    Homemade versions can have fewer calories if made with low-fat ingredients and without added cream or butter.

    How does the calorie content vary between condensed and prepared cream of mushroom soup?
    Condensed soups generally have higher calorie density per serving because they are concentrated and require dilution before consumption.

    Are there low-calorie alternatives to traditional cream of mushroom soup?
    Yes, options include soups made with broth bases, reduced-fat dairy, or plant-based milk substitutes to lower calorie content.

    Does adding ingredients like noodles or chicken significantly increase the calorie count?
    Yes, additional ingredients such as noodles, chicken, or cream increase the overall calorie content of the dish.

    How can I reduce calories when using cream of mushroom soup in recipes?
    Use low-fat or reduced-sodium soup versions, dilute with broth, and incorporate more vegetables to lower calories without sacrificing flavor.
    In summary, the calorie content of cream of mushroom soup varies depending on the brand, preparation method, and serving size. On average, a typical canned cream of mushroom soup contains approximately 70 to 100 calories per half-cup serving. Homemade versions may have different calorie counts based on the ingredients used, such as cream, butter, or milk, which can increase the overall caloric value. It is essential to check nutrition labels or recipe components to accurately assess the calorie content.

    Understanding the calorie content is important for individuals managing their dietary intake, especially those monitoring calorie consumption for weight management or specific health conditions. Cream of mushroom soup, while relatively moderate in calories, can contain added fats and sodium, which should also be considered when incorporating it into a balanced diet.

    Ultimately, being informed about the calories in cream of mushroom soup allows consumers to make better nutritional choices. Opting for low-fat or reduced-sodium versions, or preparing homemade soup with controlled ingredients, can help maintain a healthier diet without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

    Author Profile

    Nora Gaines
    Nora Gaines
    When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

    It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

    Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.