As the weather starts to cool and the leaves change colors, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a warm bowl of soup. One of the most loved soups during the fall season is butternut squash soup. This velvety, smooth soup is sweet, savory, and perfect for the season. Whether you’re enjoying it by the fireplace or serving it at a family gathering, this easy-to-make butternut squash soup will become a fall favorite in no time.
Ingredients for Velvety Butternut Squash Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this tasty, cozy soup:
- 1 large butternut squash (peeled and cut into cubes)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter, if you prefer)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 cup coconut milk or heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- Fresh herbs (like thyme, rosemary, or sage for garnish)
- Croutons or roasted pumpkin seeds (optional topping)
How to Make Velvety Butternut Squash Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Squash
Start by slicing the butternut squash in half lengthwise and removing the seeds. Then, peel off the skin with a vegetable peeler and cut the flesh into small cubes. Be sure to remove all the skin to get a smooth texture in the soup.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook it for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until you smell its fragrance. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Add the Squash and Spices
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot with the onions and garlic. Stir in the cinnamon and nutmeg. These spices will make your soup smell amazing and add warmth to the flavor.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, making sure the squash is covered. Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. The squash should be soft enough to break apart when pierced with a fork.
Step 5: Blend the Soup
Once the squash is tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender. Just blend the soup in batches. To make the soup extra creamy, add some coconut milk or heavy cream.
Step 6: Adjust the Seasoning
Taste the soup and add salt, pepper, or more spices if needed. If the soup feels too thick, you can add a little more broth until it’s at the consistency you like.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Pour the soup into bowls and add some fresh herbs on top, like thyme or rosemary. For a fun crunch, you can also sprinkle some homemade croutons or roasted pumpkin seeds on top. A swirl of cream or coconut milk can make the soup look extra special.
Tips for the Best Butternut Squash Soup
- Roast the Squash for More Flavor: Roasting the squash before adding it to the soup can bring out its natural sweetness and give it a deeper flavor. Just toss the squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes.
- Spice It Up: While cinnamon and nutmeg are classic spices for butternut squash soup, feel free to experiment with ginger, curry powder, or smoked paprika. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar can also brighten the flavor of the soup.
- Make It Vegan: If you’re vegan or dairy-free, you can substitute vegetable broth and coconut milk to keep the soup creamy without any dairy.
- Freeze for Later: If you want to make a big batch, butternut squash soup freezes well. Let the soup cool completely before placing it in airtight containers. You can store it for up to 3 months and reheat it whenever you’re in the mood for a cozy meal.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
Butternut squash soup has the perfect mix of sweetness and savory flavor, making it loved by everyone. Its creamy texture and warm spices create a comforting meal that feels just like a hug in a bowl. This soup is easy to make, full of healthy ingredients, and can be customized to fit your taste. Whether you enjoy it spicy, extra creamy, or with a little tang, you can easily adjust the recipe to suit your preferences.
This soup is not just a great addition to any meal, but it can also be a main course on its own. It’s perfect for chilly days and adds a cozy, festive touch to your autumn menu. So, next time you’re craving something warm and comforting, try making this velvety butternut squash soup—you won’t regret it!
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