The Best Fluffy Pancakes recipe you will fall in love with. Full of tips and tricks to help you make the best pancakes.
Butternut Squash Soup – Warm, Cozy, and Comforting
I love making butternut squash soup because it always feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
I enjoy it on chilly evenings when I want something soothing, simple, and full of flavor.
This soup is perfect for fall, winter, or any time I crave something creamy without being heavy.
I’m excited to share this recipe with you because it’s easy, comforting, and always tastes amazing.
You can serve it as a light lunch, a cozy dinner starter, or even pair it with crusty bread for a full meal.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~180 per serving |
| Protein | ~2g |
| Carbs | ~22g |
| Vegan | Yes (if using vegetable broth) |
| Gluten-Free | Yes |
| Dairy-Free | Yes (if no cream added) |
| Suitable For | Lunch, dinner, appetizer |
| Texture | Creamy and smooth |
| Main Flavor | Sweet, savory, warm spices |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup is incredibly creamy without needing any heavy cream, which makes it lighter but still rich. It also has a natural sweetness from the squash that blends perfectly with warm spices.
You’ll love that it’s budget-friendly and made with simple ingredients you probably already have at home. It’s also great for meal prep because it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
The recipe is very beginner friendly, so you don’t need to be a professional cook to make it taste great. It’s also versatile, meaning you can adjust the flavors, spices, or toppings to your liking.
Ingredients to Make Butternut Squash Soup
I like keeping the ingredients simple because they allow the natural flavor of the butternut squash to shine. These items come together to create a rich, smooth, and comforting soup everyone can enjoy.
- Butternut squash (1 medium, peeled and cubed): This is the star of the recipe, giving the soup its sweet and earthy taste. Fresh squash works best for a rich flavor and creamy texture.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): This helps soften the vegetables and adds a subtle richness. It also helps bring out the natural sweetness of the squash.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped): Onion builds the base flavor of the soup and adds depth. It balances the sweetness with a mild savory taste.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Garlic gives the soup a warm aroma and boosts its overall flavor. It blends beautifully with the squash and spices.
- Vegetable broth (4 cups): This is the liquid base that helps cook and blend everything smoothly. Using a good-quality broth makes the soup more flavorful.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): These simple seasonings bring all the flavors together. Adjust according to your preference after blending.
- Cinnamon or nutmeg (a pinch): A small amount of warm spice enhances the natural sweetness. It adds a cozy fall flavor without overpowering the soup.
- Optional cream or coconut milk (¼ cup): This gives the soup a richer and silkier finish. It’s optional but great if you love extra creaminess.
Steps to Make Butternut Squash Soup
I like breaking the steps into simple parts so it’s easy to follow and make the soup at your own pace. Each step is designed to build flavor and create a creamy, smooth texture.
Step 1: Sauté the vegetables
Start by heating olive oil in a pot and adding the chopped onions and garlic. Let them cook until they become soft and fragrant because this creates the base flavor of the soup.
Step 2: Add the squash
Add the peeled and cubed butternut squash into the pot and mix it with the sautéed onions. Let it cook for a few minutes so the flavors start blending together.
Step 3: Pour the broth
Once the squash is slightly softened, pour in the vegetable broth. Make sure the squash is fully covered so it cooks evenly and becomes tender.
Step 4: Let it simmer
Bring everything to a boil and then reduce the heat to let it simmer. Allow it to cook until the squash becomes completely soft and easy to mash.
Step 5: Blend the soup
Turn off the heat and carefully blend the soup using a blender or immersion blender. Make sure to blend until the soup becomes smooth and creamy without any lumps.
Step 6: Season and serve
Return the soup to the pot and add salt, pepper, and warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Stir well and adjust the flavors before serving it warm with your favorite toppings.
Serving Suggestions
I love serving this soup with crusty bread because it helps soak up all the creamy goodness. You can also pair it with grilled cheese, which adds a comforting and delicious touch.
This soup tastes amazing with toppings like toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch. A drizzle of coconut milk or cream also makes it look beautiful and feel richer.
If you want a full meal, serve it alongside a simple salad for balance. The light freshness of greens pairs perfectly with the warm, cozy soup.
You can also serve this soup as a starter for dinner parties. Its smooth texture and simple flavors make it enjoyable for everyone.
Meal Prep Tips: Can We Make Butternut Squash Soup in Advance?
Yes, you can easily make this soup in advance because it stores very well. The flavors even become richer and deeper after resting in the fridge.
I prefer cooking it a day ahead and blending it when it cools slightly. This keeps the texture smooth and prevents it from becoming too thick.
If you’re preparing it for the week, store it in airtight containers to keep it fresh. Separation is normal, so just stir well before reheating.
You can freeze the soup for longer storage, and it lasts up to three months without losing flavor. Freeze it in portions so reheating becomes quick and easy.
Tips and Tricks
Always cut the squash into even-sized cubes so it cooks evenly. This helps you get a smooth texture without lumps.
Roasting the squash before making the soup adds extra sweetness and depth. It also gives the soup a richer, caramelized flavor.
If the soup becomes too thick, add a little broth while blending. It makes the texture silky and balanced.
To make it extra creamy without cream, blend in a bit of cooked potato. It gives the soup a natural and smooth thickness.
Variations of Butternut Squash Soup
You can make a spicy version by adding chili flakes or cayenne pepper. It brings a warm kick that balances the natural sweetness nicely.
For a richer flavor, blend in some roasted carrots or sweet potatoes. These add more color and a deeper, earthy sweetness.
If you love herbs, try adding fresh thyme or sage while cooking. These herbs create a warm and comforting aroma.
You can also make a coconut version by replacing broth with coconut milk. This makes the soup creamy and naturally dairy-free.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover soup in airtight containers to keep it fresh and safe. This prevents it from absorbing any fridge smells.
The soup stays good in the fridge for up to four days. Just give it a quick stir before heating because natural separation is normal.
If you need to store it longer, freeze it in small portions. This makes reheating easy and stops waste.
Always cool the soup fully before freezing to avoid ice crystals. This helps maintain the smooth and creamy texture.
Can We Reheat Butternut Squash Soup?
Yes, you can reheat it very easily on the stove. Use low heat to warm it gently and avoid over-thickening.
If it becomes too thick while reheating, add a splash of broth or water. This brings the texture back to smooth and creamy.
Reheating in the microwave works too but heat in short intervals. Stir between each interval to avoid hot spots.
Avoid boiling the soup repeatedly because it can affect flavor. Gentle reheating keeps the soup rich and tasty.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, frozen squash works well because it cooks quickly. It also saves a lot of prep time.
Can I make this soup without garlic or onions?
Yes, you can skip them if needed. The soup will still taste great but slightly milder.
Can I add protein to this soup?
Yes, you can add chickpeas or lentils for a protein boost. They blend nicely and keep the soup filling.
How do I make the soup thicker?
Blend in a little cooked potato or reduce the broth. Both help create a thicker, creamier texture.
Can I make it without a blender?
Yes, mash the squash with a masher for a rustic version. It won’t be fully smooth but still delicious.
Conclusion
Butternut squash soup is warm, cozy, and perfect for any day you want comfort. I love how simple it is to make and how easily you can adjust it to your taste.
This soup works for busy nights, meal prep, or gatherings. I hope you enjoy making it just as much as I enjoy sharing it with you.
