When the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of butternut squash soup. With its velvety texture, naturally sweet flavor, and hint of spice, this fall favorite is a hug in a bowl. Not only is it perfect for chilly evenings, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for you and your family. Whether you're cozying up on the couch or hosting a dinner party, this always hits the spot. Let's walk you through how to make it!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this luscious soup. Simple and wholesome ingredients are the star of this dish!
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2–3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, chopped
- 1 medium apple (like Honeycrisp or Fuji), peeled and chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth if you prefer)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup coconut milk, heavy cream, or Greek yogurt (for extra creaminess)
- Optional toppings: a drizzle of olive oil, croutons, roasted pumpkin seeds, or a dollop of sour cream
Why these ingredients?
- Butternut squash delivers that signature creamy, sweet flavor that makes this soup so special.
- Apples add a touch of natural sweetness and balance the savory ingredients.
- Cinnamon and nutmeg give a gentle warm spice that makes this soup taste like fall.
Step-By-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Squash
Start by peeling your butternut squash with a veggie peeler and cutting it into smaller chunks. Scoop out the seeds and set them aside if you want to roast them for a crunchy topping later.
2. Sauté Your Base
Heat olive oil (or butter) in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, and sauté until they're soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Toss in the garlic, carrot, and apple, stirring until everything smells fragrant.
3. Add the Squash and Spice Things Up
Stir in the cubed butternut squash. Sprinkle the cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper evenly over the veggies. Cook for 2–3 minutes, letting them soak up all those spices.
4. Add the Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring all the veggies are submerged. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for about 20–25 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender.
5. Blend it All Together
Once everything is cooked, grab an immersion blender and puree the soup directly in the pot until silky smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a standard blender. Be sure to cover the lid with a kitchen towel to avoid any hot splashes!
6. Add Creaminess
Stir in your coconut milk, cream, or yogurt. This step turns your soup into a luscious, creamy masterpiece. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
7. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the golden soup into bowls, and garnish as you please. A swirl of olive oil, a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds, or a scoop of Greek yogurt elevate the texture and flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Butternut Squash Soup
Roast the Squash for Extra Flavor
If you have time, roast the squash cubes at 400°F for 25 minutes before adding them to the soup. This deepens their flavor and gives the soup an extra caramelized sweetness.Customize the Spices
For a slightly different twist, add a pinch of curry powder for a warm, savory kick or ginger for a subtle zing.Make it Vegan-Friendly
Stick with vegetable broth and coconut milk to keep things 100% plant-based while still achieving that creamy richness.Freeze for Later
This soup freezes beautifully, so make a double batch and save some for busy weeknights when you need something quick and hearty.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your butternut squash soup with freshly baked sourdough bread or a side salad for a complete meal. If you’re feeling indulgent, try serving it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich. The gooey, cheesy crunch complements the soup’s smooth texture wonderfully.
This butternut squash soup is the ultimate comfort food that feels like you’re wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket. Whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or guests, it’s simple, wholesome, and unbelievably satisfying. Go ahead and put your apron on—you’re about to make a dish everyone will ask for again and again!
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