Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup: A Seasonal Favorite Among Soup Recipes

Last Updated on October 9, 2025 by Chef Josie

When autumn arrives and the air turns crisp, few things feel as satisfying as a warm bowl of Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup. Rich, creamy, and full of texture, this stovetop soup brings together earthy mushrooms, hearty wild rice, tender carrots, and kale in a luxurious broth. It’s wholesome, deeply flavorful, and the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition.

This recipe celebrates everything you love about Soup Recipes; cozy, nourishing, and simple to prepare. Made entirely on the stovetop, it’s a one-pot wonder ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or those lazy Sunday afternoons when you crave something comforting but wholesome.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and nutritious: Full of vegetables, whole grains, and creamy broth, perfect for fall and winter.
• Easy stovetop method: No slow cooker required, ready in about 45 minutes.
• Perfect texture: The wild rice adds chewiness and depth, balancing the creamy base.
• Meal prep friendly: Keeps well for several days and reheats beautifully.
• Seasonal favorite: Ideal for Fall Soup Recipes and Winter Soup Recipes.

Ingredient Breakdown

2 tablespoons olive oil or butter – The base for sautéing vegetables.
1 small onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the broth.
3 garlic cloves, minced – Provides aromatic richness.
2 large carrots, sliced – Brings color and natural sweetness.
2 celery stalks, chopped – Classic aromatic vegetable for balance.
1 cup mushrooms, sliced – Adds earthy flavor and umami.
1 cup uncooked wild rice – Nutty and hearty; the star grain of this soup.
6 cups vegetable or chicken broth – Forms the flavorful foundation.
1 teaspoon dried thyme – Complements the rice and mushrooms perfectly.
1 teaspoon dried rosemary – Adds a fragrant, herbal touch.
1 cup milk or cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free) – Makes the soup rich and velvety.
1 tablespoon flour (optional) – Thickens the soup slightly.
2 cups chopped kale or spinach – Adds freshness and nutrients.
Salt and black pepper to taste – Adjust as desired.

Optional additions:

• Add cooked chicken or turkey for extra protein.
• Substitute half the wild rice with brown rice or barley for a heartier texture.
• Add a splash of white wine for a deeper flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the vegetables
   In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook 5–6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and mushrooms, cooking for another 3 minutes.
2. Add broth and rice
   Stir in wild rice, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 35–40 minutes until the rice is tender but slightly chewy.
3. Make it creamy
   In a small bowl, whisk the flour with the milk or cream until smooth. Slowly stir it into the soup. Simmer for 5–10 minutes until thickened.
4. Add greens and finish
   Stir in kale or spinach. Cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Serve and enjoy
   Ladle into bowls and serve warm with bread or crackers.

Notes & Top Tips

• Don’t rush the rice: Wild rice takes longer than white rice but gives the soup its signature texture.
• Creamy consistency: For dairy-free, use full-fat coconut milk. It adds richness without heaviness.
• Thicker soup: Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce liquid.
• Make ahead: The soup thickens as it sits; add extra broth or milk when reheating.
• Storage: Store up to 4 days in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 2 months.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

• Serve with: Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a side salad for a balanced meal.
• Add protein: Shredded chicken, turkey, or white beans work beautifully.
• Vegetarian version: Use vegetable broth and add extra mushrooms or chickpeas.
• Flavor twist: Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavor.

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Cool completely and freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm gently over medium-low heat, adding broth or milk to loosen the texture.

Why You’ll Make It Again

This Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup captures everything wonderful about fall cooking, hearty, warming, and full of wholesome ingredients. It’s the kind of soup that invites you to slow down, savor, and enjoy the simple comfort of a home-cooked meal. Whether you’re hosting friends, feeding family, or meal prepping for the week, it’s one of those Soup Recipes that will stay in your regular rotation all season long.

FAQs

Can I use a wild rice blend?
Yes, a blend of wild and brown rice works well. Adjust cooking time if using a faster-cooking blend.

Can I make it vegan?
Yes. Use olive oil, vegetable broth, and coconut milk or oat milk instead of dairy.

Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely. The flavors deepen overnight, making it an excellent make-ahead soup.

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