Butternut Squash Soup

Short Description

Butternut Squash Soup is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for fall and winter. With its velvety texture and rich, slightly sweet flavor, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying. It’s simple to prepare and can be easily customized to suit different tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make with minimal ingredients
• Naturally creamy and flavorful without the need for heavy cream
• Perfect for meal prep and reheats beautifully
• Can be made vegan or dairy-free with simple swaps
• Great as a starter or a light main course

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Butternut squash (peeled, seeded, and cubed)
• Onion (chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Carrots (chopped, optional for added sweetness)
• Vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• Coconut milk or heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Olive oil or butter
• Salt and pepper
• Ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
• Nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (such as thyme or parsley)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic and carrots, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add cubed butternut squash and season with salt, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Pour in vegetable broth, ensuring the squash is fully submerged.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20-25 minutes until the squash is fork-tender.
7. Remove from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches using a countertop blender.
8. Stir in coconut milk or heavy cream if desired, and adjust seasoning to taste.
9. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of extra coconut milk or cream if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for heat.
• Apple Infused: Add a chopped apple for a touch of natural sweetness.
• Ginger Flavor: Stir in fresh or ground ginger for a warming effect.
• Roasted Squash: Roast the squash before blending for a richer, caramelized flavor.
• Protein Boost: Add cooked chickpeas or lentils for extra protein.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, use vegetable broth and coconut milk for a completely plant-based version.

Do I need to peel the butternut squash?

Yes, peeling the squash helps achieve a smooth texture in the soup.

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Absolutely! Frozen squash works well and reduces prep time.

How do I thicken the soup?

The soup is naturally thick, but you can let it simmer longer or add a bit of mashed potatoes for extra thickness.

What can I serve with this soup?

It pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich.

Can I use a regular blender instead of an immersion blender?

Yes, but be sure to blend in batches and allow the soup to cool slightly before blending to prevent splattering.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then blend.

How do I make it extra creamy?

Adding extra coconut milk, heavy cream, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt can enhance creaminess.

Can I add protein to this soup?

Yes, you can add cooked chicken, tofu, or beans for extra protein.

Conclusion

Butternut Squash Soup is a warm, comforting dish that is easy to prepare and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this soup delivers with its smooth, rich flavors. Try it today and enjoy a bowl of wholesome goodness!

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