Description
This Butternut Squash Soup recipe is a soul-warming, easy-to-make dish packed with the vibrant flavors of autumn. Silky, creamy, and beautifully spiced, it transforms humble ingredients into a comforting masterpiece perfect for chilly days or anytime you need a cozy bowl of nourishment. Roasting the squash enhances its natural sweetness, while warm spices and simple steps create a smooth, flavorful soup that can be adapted for vegan, gluten-free, or low-fat diets.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2–3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for roasting and sautéing)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cream or coconut milk (for extra creaminess)
- Pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes (for a spicy kick)
- Fresh herbs such as thyme, sage, or rosemary (for herb infusion)
- Toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped pecans (for nutty toppings)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider or maple syrup (for sweet & savory twist)
Instructions
- Roast Your Squash: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel, seed, and cube the butternut squash. Toss the cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until golden and tender, allowing caramelization to enhance sweetness.
- Sauté Aromatics: While the squash roasts, heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute, releasing aromatic flavors without browning.
- Combine and Simmer: Add the roasted squash cubes to the pot along with the broth. Stir in ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes to blend flavors and soften the squash further.
- Blend to Perfection: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. For added richness, stir in cream or coconut milk and warm through gently.
- Final Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional spices as desired. Serve hot with your favorite garnishes or side dishes.
Notes
- Roast the squash until lightly caramelized to unlock deeper sweetness and richer flavor.
- Allow the soup to simmer to fully infuse spices and soften ingredients perfectly.
- Blend soup in small batches for safety and an even, smooth texture.
- Use freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg for the best aroma and taste.
- Adjust soup thickness by adding more broth or cream according to your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: butternut squash soup, autumn soup, creamy squash soup, roasted butternut squash, vegan soup, gluten-free soup, fall recipe