Creamy butternut squash soup is a comforting dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. A warm, crusty baguette or tangy sourdough provides the perfect texture for dipping, balancing the soup’s velvety smoothness. 

Fresh spinach or arugula salad with nuts and cheese adds a crisp contrast, enhancing the warm flavors. A cheese platter featuring mild options like Brie or Gouda blends seamlessly with the soup’s creamy richness. 

For a heartier pairing, a grilled cheese sandwich with sharp cheddar or apple slices offers a delightful crunch. Roasted Brussels sprouts or a wholesome grain dish like quinoa can round out the meal, making it even more satisfying.

When the air starts to cool and the leaves turn golden, there’s nothing more inviting than a bowl of creamy butternut squash soup. I still remember the first time I made this soup on a crisp autumn evening. 

The smell of roasted squash filled my kitchen, wrapping me in warmth. As I took my first spoonful, I was met with a velvety texture that was both comforting and indulgent.

Butternut squash soup isn’t just a seasonal delight; it’s a delightful journey that brings together uncomplicated ingredients to create a dish that feels special. My passion for cooking and experimenting with flavors led me to this recipe, and I bet this soup will find a cherished place in your kitchen too.

What is Creamy Butternut Squash Soup?

Creamy butternut squash soup is a smooth, rich soup made primarily from roasted butternut squash, often blended with a variety of seasonings, aromatics, and a creamy element. It can easily transition from a cozy family meal to an elegant dinner party starter. 

With its natural sweetness from the squash and freshness from added ingredients like ginger and garlic, this soup hits all the right notes. Each spoonful reflects the essence of fall and embraces the heartiness of winter.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

You might wonder, what makes this recipe stand out? Here are some compelling reasons:

1. Simple Ingredients: You don’t need fancy components. Just fresh vegetables, some simple spices, and a bit of broth create the magic.

2. Flexibility: Whether you want a vegan dish or something heartier with the addition of cream or cheese, this soup easily adapts to various dietary preferences.

3. Health Benefits: Packed with vitamins, especially Vitamin A from the squash, it’s a nutritious way to get your veggies in.

4. Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance and freeze it. When you’re short on time, just heat it up!

5. Comforting Texture: The creamy consistency provides a soothing element, making it a go-to on chilly days.

The Ingredients You Will Need to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

To whip up this delightful soup, gather the following ingredients:

Vegetables & Fruits:

• 3 pounds butternut squash – peeled and diced
• 1 large carrot – peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 green apple – peeled and chopped into pieces
• 1 red bell pepper – cored and chopped
• 1 medium white or yellow onion – finely chopped
• 1 stalk celery – diced

Seasonings & Flavors:

• 1 tablespoon fresh garlic – minced
• 1 teaspoon sea salt 
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika 
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon honey

Liquids:

• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth 
• 2 15-ounce cans of unsweetened coconut milk

Garnishes (Optional):

• Dried cranberries
• Sunflower seeds
• Fresh parsley or thyme
• Pepitas or roasted pumpkin seeds
• Cracked black pepper
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Extra smoked paprika

Directions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

First, set your workspace. Gather all your ingredients and chop the veggies as instructed. This includes peeling, dicing the squash, and chopping your onion, carrot, apple, and bell pepper. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Step 2: Roast the Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the diced butternut squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat, and roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized. This roasting step enhances the sweetness and adds depth to the soup.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and celery. 

Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are translucent. Add in the carrot and bell pepper and cook for an additional 5 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen, creating anticipation for the meal.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once the squash is ready, add it to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the broth and coconut milk. Toss in the green apple, smoked paprika, ground ginger, and honey.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 6: Blend Until Smooth

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the mixture to a regular blender in batches. Be cautious—hot liquids can splatter!

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Taste your soup. This is the moment to adjust the seasoning. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or honey depending on your taste preference. Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings like sunflower seeds, cranberries, or a sprinkle of cheese.

Notes

Here are some handy tips to ensure your butternut squash soup turns out perfectly:

• Choose Ripe Squash: Opt for heavy, firm butternut squash with a deep, rich color. It should feel dense and have a smooth skin.
  
• Control the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, use less coconut milk or substitute with almond milk.
  
• Spice It Up: Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of curry powder for a twist.
  
• Don’t Skip the Roasting: Roasting brings out the natural sugars in the squash. If you skip this step, your soup may lack that depth of flavor.
  
• Garnish Creatively: Get creative with garnishes. Different textures add excitement—consider crispy bacon bits or crumbled feta for additional flavor.
  

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers—or if you want to make a big batch in advance—here’s how to store your soup:

• Refrigerator: Allow the soup to cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days.
  
• Freezer: For longer storage, transfer the cooled soup to freezer-friendly containers. It can last up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
  

When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over medium heat.

Serving Suggestions

Ready to serve? Here are a few creative ideas for enjoying your butternut squash soup:

Spicy Croutons: Top your soup with crunchy, spiced croutons. They add a delightful contrast and are super easy to make.

Savory Yogurt Swirl: A spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream adds creaminess and balance.

Nacho Toppings: For a fun twist, sprinkle some cheese, jalapeños, and crushed tortilla chips on top.

Chili Kick: Add a dollop of your favorite chili sauce or a bit of sriracha for heat.

Protein Boost: Serve alongside grilled chicken or chickpea salad for added protein and heartiness.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Creamy Butternut Squash Soup?

If you find yourself in need of variations or alternatives to the main ingredients, try these options:

1. Pumpkin: Pumpkin puree makes an excellent substitute for butternut squash. It has a similar texture and flavor profile, but adds its unique twist. Just ensure you adjust the seasoning to match.

2. Sweet Potatoes: Using sweet potatoes gives your soup an added sweetness and a different nutrient profile. They blend just as well, creating a rich texture.

3. Cauliflower: For a lighter option, use cauliflower. It adds creaminess when blended and works wonderfully with the seasonings.

4. Almond Milk: Instead of coconut milk, almond milk or any other non-dairy milk can be your base. It’s lighter, but opt for unsweetened to maintain the flavor balance.

5. Shallots: If you have shallots on hand, they can replace regular onions for a milder, more nuanced flavor.

Pamela Dunlap

Creamy Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

Creamy butternut squash soup is a comforting dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 202

Ingredients Equipment Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 3 pounds butternut squash – peeled and diced
• 1 large carrot – peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 green apple – peeled and chopped into pieces
• 1 red bell pepper – cored and chopped
• 1 medium white or yellow onion – finely chopped
• 1 stalk celery – diced
• 1 tablespoon fresh garlic – minced
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 15- ounce cans of unsweetened coconut milk
• Garnishes Optional:
• Dried cranberries
• Sunflower seeds
• Fresh parsley or thyme
• Pepitas or roasted pumpkin seeds
• Cracked black pepper
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Extra smoked paprika

Equipment

• Large pot

Nutrition

Calories: 202kcalCarbohydrates: 43gProtein: 5gFat: 2.9gSaturated Fat: 0.7gCholesterol: 2mgSodium: 722mgFiber: 8gSugar: 15g

Notes

• Choose Ripe Squash: Opt for heavy, firm butternut squash with a deep, rich color. It should feel dense and have a smooth skin.
  
• Control the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, use less coconut milk or substitute with almond milk.
  
• Spice It Up: Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of curry powder for a twist.
  
• Don’t Skip the Roasting: Roasting brings out the natural sugars in the squash. If you skip this step, your soup may lack that depth of flavor.
  
• Garnish Creatively: Get creative with garnishes. Different textures add excitement—consider crispy bacon bits or crumbled feta for additional flavor.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Creamy butternut squash soup is not merely a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and a reminder of cozy moments shared over a warm meal. This recipe is not only nourishing but also incredibly adaptable to suit your preferences. 

Whether you enjoy it simply or dressed up with various garnishes and sides, it holds an essential place in any home cook’s repertoire.

So, roll up those sleeves and gather your ingredients. There’s something reassuring about preparing this dish, and I can promise you’ll love the journey as much as the result. Happy cooking!

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