Butternut Squash Soup

This creamy and comforting Butternut Squash Soup is a seasonal favorite that combines the rich, natural sweetness of roasted squash with savory herbs and spices. Perfect for chilly days, this soup is smooth, nourishing, and can be easily adapted to suit various dietary needs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Butternut Squash Soup offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. It’s easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients, and it’s naturally gluten-free and vegetarian. Whether served as a cozy lunch, a starter for a dinner party, or part of a holiday menu, this soup is sure to impress with its velvety texture and rich taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Butternut squash, peeled and cubed

• Onion, chopped

• Garlic cloves, minced

• Carrots, peeled and chopped

• Celery stalks, chopped

• Vegetable broth

• Olive oil

• Fresh thyme or dried thyme

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: heavy cream or coconut milk for added creaminess

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for about 25–30 minutes, until tender and slightly caramelized.

3. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables soften, about 8–10 minutes.

4. Add the roasted squash to the pot, followed by vegetable broth and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes.

5. Remove from heat and let the soup cool slightly. Use an immersion blender to puree until smooth, or transfer to a blender in batches.

6. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Stir in cream or coconut milk if using, then reheat gently before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 to 6 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy version.

• Apple Twist: Add a chopped apple during cooking for a touch of tart sweetness.

• Protein Boost: Stir in cooked lentils or chickpeas before blending for added protein.

• Low-Fat Version: Skip the cream and use extra vegetable broth for a lighter soup.

• Herb Variations: Experiment with sage, rosemary, or a bay leaf for different aromatic profiles.

storage/reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. This soup also freezes well—cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

What is the best way to peel butternut squash?

Use a vegetable peeler to remove the tough skin, then cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and chop into cubes.

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, frozen squash is a convenient alternative. It may reduce roasting time slightly, so monitor closely.

Is this soup vegan?

Yes, if you omit the cream or use coconut milk or another plant-based substitute, it remains vegan.

Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?

Certainly, chicken broth works well if you are not adhering to a vegetarian diet.

How can I make the soup thicker?

Simmer longer to reduce the liquid or add less broth initially. You can also stir in a cooked potato before blending.

Is this soup suitable for freezing?

Yes, it freezes well. Be sure to cool the soup completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

How do I make the soup smoother?

Use a high-speed blender in batches to achieve an ultra-smooth consistency.

Can I add protein to this soup?

Yes, adding beans, lentils, or shredded chicken can increase the protein content.

What toppings go well with this soup?

Try a dollop of sour cream, roasted pumpkin seeds, croutons, or a drizzle of olive oil.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Conclusion

Butternut Squash Soup is a wholesome, versatile, and easy-to-make dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. With simple ingredients and endless customization options, it’s a recipe worth keeping on hand for fall and winter seasons. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a side of crusty bread, this soup is both satisfying and nourishing

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