Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup: A Hearty, Creamy, and Comforting Bowl

As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing better than a warm, comforting bowl of soup to embrace the flavors of the season. Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup is the perfect fall dish, packed with nutty wild rice, earthy mushrooms, sweet butternut squash, and hearty greens, all in a creamy, herb-infused broth.

This soup is a blend of rustic, nourishing ingredients, making it both wholesome and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a hearty vegetarian meal, a meal-prep-friendly dish, or a cozy dinner to enjoy by the fireplace, this wild rice soup is the ultimate autumn comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

✔ Rich, Creamy, & Comforting – A luxuriously thick and flavorful broth.
✔ Wholesome & Nutritious – Packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day!
✔ Naturally Gluten-Free – Made with wild rice and fresh veggies.
✔ Customizable & Flexible – Add chicken, tofu, or extra vegetables for variety.

What Is Wild Rice Soup?

Wild Rice Soup is a creamy, comforting dish made with nutty wild rice, vegetables, and a rich broth. It’s commonly enjoyed in Minnesota, where wild rice is a staple ingredient.

This Autumn-inspired version incorporates butternut squash, mushrooms, kale, and warm spices, making it extra cozy and packed with fall flavors.

Ingredients for Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup

This soup is made with simple, nourishing ingredients that bring out delicious fall flavors.

For the Soup Base:

1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced (baby bella or cremini)
1 cup butternut squash, cubed
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried sage
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup wild rice, rinsed
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup water

For the Creamy Finish:

1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
1 tablespoon cornstarch (or flour for a roux)
2 cups fresh kale or spinach, chopped

Optional Additions:

1 cup shredded chicken (for a protein boost)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for heat)
Parmesan cheese for topping

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Stir in mushrooms and butternut squash, cooking for another 3 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Spices & Wild Rice

Sprinkle in thyme, sage, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Stir to coat the veggies, allowing the spices to bloom.
Add wild rice, broth, and water, bringing everything to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Simmer Until Tender

Cover and cook on low heat for 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Check the wild rice—it should be tender and slightly split open.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk or heavy cream with cornstarch.
Pour the mixture into the soup and stir well.
Add chopped kale or spinach, letting it wilt into the soup.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan, fresh herbs, or extra black pepper.
Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad.

Tips for the Best Wild Rice Soup

✔ Use Real Wild Rice – Not a blend! It has better texture and nutty flavor.
✔ Don’t Rush the Cooking – Wild rice takes time to soften—it’s worth the wait!
✔ Make It Thicker – Add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch or flour for an even creamier consistency.
✔ Add More Protein – Toss in shredded chicken, white beans, or tofu for an extra protein boost.
✔ Adjust the Seasonings – Add extra thyme, sage, or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a brighter taste.

Delicious Variations

Want to change things up? Try these flavorful twists:

1. Slow Cooker Wild Rice Soup

Add all ingredients (except cream and kale) to a slow cooker.
Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
Stir in cream and kale before serving.

2. Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

Add shredded rotisserie chicken for an extra hearty, protein-packed meal.

3. Vegan & Dairy-Free Wild Rice Soup

Use coconut milk or cashew cream for a rich, plant-based version.

4. Spicy Southwest Wild Rice Soup

Add green chilies, cumin, and cayenne pepper for a smoky, spicy kick.

5. Mushroom Lover’s Wild Rice Soup

Use a mix of shiitake, cremini, and oyster mushrooms for extra depth and umami flavor.

How to Store & Reheat

Refrigeration:

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
Tip: Leave out the cream and kale before freezing, adding them after reheating.

Reheating:

Stovetop: Heat over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

What to Serve with Wild Rice Soup

This rich and creamy soup pairs well with:

Warm sourdough bread or biscuits 🥖
A simple green salad 🥗
Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts 🥬
A glass of white wine or cider 🍷

For a complete cozy meal, serve with buttery cornbread and a slice of pumpkin pie for dessert!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use regular rice instead of wild rice?

Yes, but wild rice has more texture and a nuttier flavor. If using brown rice, adjust the cooking time.

2. Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes! It’s naturally gluten-free—just check that your broth is gluten-free.

3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better the next day.

4. How can I make this soup thicker?

Stir in extra cornstarch or flour.
Blend half of the soup for a creamier texture.

Final Thoughts

This Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup is the perfect warm, nourishing meal for fall and winter. With its creamy texture, earthy wild rice, sweet butternut squash, and comforting flavors, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

So grab your coziest sweater, a big soup pot, and a spoon, and enjoy a bowl of fall-inspired comfort today!

Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup