Butternut squash soup is a comforting, velvety soup that brings warmth and sweet, earthy flavors with every spoonful. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a seasonal starter for a holiday meal, this soup is both nourishing and delicious. The natural sweetness of the butternut squash pairs wonderfully with the savory depth of onions, garlic, and herbs, creating a perfectly balanced, rich broth.
This recipe is easy to make, whether you’re using fresh squash or pre-cut pieces for convenience. A touch of ginger, a hint of cinnamon, and a drizzle of cream bring extra warmth and creaminess to the soup, making it ideal for cozy nights at home. Plus, it’s naturally vegan if you skip the cream or substitute it with coconut milk, and it’s an excellent option for those looking for a healthy, low-calorie meal.
Whether served as a light dinner, paired with a salad, or as an appetizer, butternut squash soup is the kind of dish that you’ll keep coming back to. Here’s how to make it in just a few simple steps.
Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 3-4 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1 tsp ground ginger)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup coconut milk or heavy cream (optional, for creaminess)
- Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Squash:
- Start by peeling and seeding the butternut squash. Cut it into 1-inch cubes. If you want a shortcut, you can buy pre-cut butternut squash at most grocery stores.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the Squash:
- Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and stir to combine. Season with salt, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Simmer:
- Pour in the vegetable broth, making sure the squash is covered. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Blend the Soup:
- Once the squash is cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and puree until smooth.
- If you want a creamier texture, stir in the coconut milk or heavy cream at this point.
- Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme.
Variations and Tips:
- Add Apple: For a touch of sweetness and depth, add a chopped apple (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) to the soup while it simmers. It will complement the squash beautifully.
- Roast the Squash: If you prefer a slightly caramelized flavor, you can roast the squash first. Toss cubed squash with olive oil and salt, then roast at 400°F for about 25 minutes before adding it to the soup.
- Spicy Kick: For a little heat, stir in cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes along with the other spices.
- Top It Off: For texture, top your soup with toasted pumpkin seeds, a dollop of yogurt, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 6 servings):
- Calories: 140
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 2g
- Total Carbs: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Net Carbs: 20g
- Sugar: 9g
- WW SmartPoints: 4 (per serving)
Why You’ll Love Butternut Squash Soup:
- Comforting and Cozy: The creamy texture and warm spices make this soup the perfect meal to enjoy on a cool evening.
- Nutritious: Packed with vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants, butternut squash is a superfood that’s both delicious and good for you.
- Versatile: Whether you prefer a dairy-free, vegan version or want to add a touch of creaminess, this soup can be customized to suit your dietary preferences.
- Easy and Quick: This soup is simple to make, with minimal prep and cook time, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Butternut Squash Soup is a classic, nourishing dish that’s perfect for fall and winter, but it’s delicious year-round. The creamy, slightly sweet base, combined with aromatic spices, will make it a dish you reach for time and again. 😋
