Creamy and Comforting Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

As the weather turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a steaming bowl of homemade Butternut Squash Soup. This velvety, flavorful soup is the epitome of cozy autumn comfort food, blending the natural sweetness of butternut squash with savory aromatics and a touch of cream. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a nourishing meal, this recipe is sure to become a new seasonal favorite.

Ingredients

For the Soup

• 1 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed (about 6 cups)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Garnishes (optional)

• Toasted pumpkin seeds
• Crumbled feta or goat cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley or chives
• Drizzle of maple syrup or honey

Preparation Steps

Roast the Butternut Squash

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the cubed butternut squash on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Toss to coat the squash evenly.
3. Roast the butternut squash for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s tender and caramelized at the edges. Set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
3. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.

Blend the Soup

1. Add the roasted butternut squash, vegetable or chicken broth, heavy cream (or coconut milk), cinnamon, nutmeg, and dried thyme to the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded.
3. Using an immersion blender (or carefully transfer the soup to a standard blender), purée the soup until it’s smooth and creamy.
4. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.

Serve the Butternut Squash Soup

1. Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
2. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds, crumbled feta or goat cheese, chopped fresh parsley or chives, and a drizzle of maple syrup or honey (if desired).
3. Serve the Butternut Squash Soup immediately, with crusty bread or crackers on the side.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 cup (240 ml)

• Calories: 230
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 590mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 24g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 4g

This creamy Butternut Squash Soup is a nutritious and comforting meal that’s perfect for the fall and winter seasons. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, which can help support a healthy immune system and digestive function. The addition of heavy cream (or coconut milk) provides a luxurious texture and a boost of healthy fats.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Spicy Butternut Squash Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the soup for a subtle kick of heat.
• Roasted Vegetable Butternut Squash Soup: Roast additional vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes along with the butternut squash and blend them into the soup.
• Butternut Squash Soup with Bacon: Top each serving with crumbled cooked bacon for a savory, smoky twist.
• Butternut Squash Soup Shooters: Serve the soup in shot glasses or small cups as an appetizer.
• Butternut Squash Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons: Serve the soup with small grilled cheese sandwiches cut into cubes for dipping.
• Vegan Butternut Squash Soup: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream and omit the cheese garnishes for a dairy-free version.

No matter how you enjoy it, this Creamy Butternut Squash Soup is sure to warm your soul and delight your taste buds this autumn season.