Creamy Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of creamy butternut squash soup to bring comfort to your table. This classic fall dish is a symphony of flavors, featuring the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash balanced by the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, with a luxurious creaminess from coconut milk or heavy cream. It’s the perfect starter for a holiday meal or a cozy main dish for a quiet evening in. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is simple to follow and packed with nutrients to keep you warm and healthy throughout the season.

Ingredients for Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

• 1 large (butternut squash or pumpkin), peeled and cubed 🎃
• 1 onion, chopped 🧅
• 2 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth 🥣
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon 🍂
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg 🌰
• 1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream 🥛
• Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
• Olive oil for roasting 🍈

Directions for Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

1. Roast the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 25-30 minutes or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized at the edges. Roasting enhances the natural sweetness and depth of flavor in the squash. 🎃🔥
2. Sauté the Aromatics: While the squash is roasting, heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they become soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This step builds the base flavors of the soup. 🧅🧄
3. Simmer the Soup: Once the squash is roasted, add it to the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, followed by the ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. 🍂🍁
4. Blend the Soup: After simmering, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, being mindful of the hot liquid. Once smooth, stir in the coconut milk or heavy cream, giving the soup its signature velvety texture. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed. 🍶🎃
5. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a drizzle of cream or coconut milk. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a touch of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the cozy, comforting flavors of this creamy butternut squash soup. Perfect for a fall night or as a stunning starter at a holiday dinner!

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Kcal Per Serving: 200 kcal (approximate, varies with cream/coconut milk choice)

Tips for Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

1. Roast for Extra Flavor: Roasting the butternut squash is key to bringing out its natural sweetness and adding a slightly caramelized depth to the soup.
2. Customize the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, opt for coconut milk, which adds a subtle sweetness. For a richer, more indulgent soup, use heavy cream.
3. Make it Spicy: For a kick of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the soup.
4. Garnishing Ideas: Try adding toasted pumpkin seeds, a swirl of sour cream, or even croutons for extra texture and flavor.

Benefits of Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

• Rich in Nutrients: Butternut squash is packed with vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber, making this soup a nutritious choice.
• Low in Calories: This creamy soup is naturally low in calories, especially if you opt for coconut milk over heavy cream.
• Supports Immune Health: Garlic and onions have immune-boosting properties, making this soup a great option during cold and flu season.
• Great for Digestion: The fiber in butternut squash supports healthy digestion, making it a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Conclusion

Creamy butternut squash soup is a perfect reflection of fall’s best flavors—earthy, warm, and slightly sweet. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or as a starter, this soup is both nutritious and comforting, making it a wonderful addition to any meal. The blend of roasted squash, aromatic spices, and creamy coconut milk or cream creates a luscious, velvety texture that’s hard to resist. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen throughout the autumn months and beyond.

FAQs about Creamy Butternut Squash Soup