Butternut Squash Soup is the ultimate comfort food for cooler weather, offering a rich, velvety texture and a subtly sweet, nutty flavor that perfectly captures the essence of fall. This hearty soup is made by simmering tender butternut squash with aromatic ingredients like onions, garlic, and a touch of ginger, then blending it all into a smooth, creamy bowl of warmth. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal to enjoy on a crisp autumn day or a simple, nourishing dish for your weekly dinner rotation, butternut squash soup is a classic that never disappoints.
The key to this soup’s flavor is the butternut squash itself. Roasting the squash before adding it to the soup base brings out its natural sweetness and intensifies its rich, savory flavors. The caramelization that happens during roasting adds a depth of flavor that makes this soup feel extra indulgent, without being overly heavy. Once roasted, the squash is blended with a fragrant mix of onions, garlic, and a hint of ginger to create a smooth, silky base. A splash of vegetable broth or chicken stock helps to thin the soup to the perfect consistency, while a touch of cream or coconut milk adds richness and a smooth finish.
The beauty of butternut squash soup lies in its versatility. It can be customized with a variety of seasonings and toppings. A sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, or curry powder can deepen the warmth and complexity of the flavors, while a drizzle of cream or coconut milk on top adds a luxurious finish. For texture and added flavor, you can top the soup with roasted seeds, crispy croutons, or fresh herbs like parsley or sage.
Butternut Squash Soup is not only a comforting meal but also a nutritious one. The squash is packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making this soup a wholesome and filling option. It can be served on its own as a light lunch or dinner, or paired with a hearty salad, crusty bread, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a more substantial meal.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, Butternut Squash Soup is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make choice that embodies the best of fall.
Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash peeled, seeded, and cubed, large
- 1 onion medium, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg ground
- 1/4 cup heavy cream optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the cubed butternut squash, vegetable broth, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook until the squash is tender, about 20-25 minutes.
- Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender or food processor.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Stir in heavy cream if using. Serve hot.
Nutrition
I’m not a chef but this was a hit at my potluck! Everyone asked for the recipe. 😊
Can’t believe it’s vegan. My mom won’t try it, but my brother said it taste great!
This soup is amazing! So creamy and flavorful. I added some croutons on top. Yum! 🍲
Soo good! I made it for my family and they devoured it. Perfect for winter nights!
Never made soup before, but this was easy! My family loved it. Will make again!
This soup is divine! Really creamy and flavorful. A perfect fall dish.
Looks nice, but how do you make it without an immersion blender? Can I just mash it?
I tried this recipe and it was super good! Way better than store-bought soup. Thanks for sharing!
Yum! The nutmeg is a game changer. I didn’t add cream but still loved it.
Did I do something wrong? Mine turned out a bit chunky and not smooth like I expected. Help!
Followed the recipe, but my soup came out kind of thin. Any tips on making it thicker?
Not a fan, found it too sweet. I thought squash was savory? Idk, just my opinion.
Too sweet? Really? I love that it tastes sweet! Makes it cozy for winter. I don’t think it’s supposed to be super savory tho.
I get what you’re saying! Squash can be sweet, but I think the nutmeg adds a nice touch. Maybe try adding more spices next time?
I made this soup with pumpkin instead and it turned out ok. 😂 Can I still call it squash soup?
Is heavy cream really necessary?? That seems too fancy for a soup.
I think heavy cream adds a nice richness, but you could definitely skip it! The squash is already so creamy on its own.
Fancy?! It’s just soup! Use milk or none if you want, why complicate things? 🤷♂️
Not sure why you need heavy cream, it’s already creamy enough! Just use more squash.
Yummy! Added some cayenne for a kick. So good!
I never thought of adding cayenne! Sounds interesting, but isn’t that a bit too spicy for a soup? 🤔
I followed the recipe exactly, but the flavor was kinda bland. Maybe needs more spices?
This soup is so creamy and delicious! I added a pinch of cinnamon and it was a hit. Will make it again!
Good recipe but could use more garlic! 👏 Also, where’s the spices?
Ehh. Okay recipe but I’ve had better. Sorry not sorry.
Butternut squash is a veggie? I thought it was a fruit! lol. Anyway, the soup is fine I guess.
Absolutely delicious! This soup is a hug in a bowl. Will make it again for sure!
Too much garlic for my taste. I love garlic but this was overpowering.
I tried this recipe but found it too sweet. I think I added too much squash? Or maybe my broth was off.
I don’t get what the hype is about. It was okay, but nothing special. Just tastes like pumpkin.
It was alright… a bit bland for my taste. I thought it needed more spice. 😒
I actually loved the flavor! Maybe you could try adding chili flakes next time? 🌶️
Simple and healthy! Love butternut squash soup, especially in fall! 🍂
Why do people put nutmeg in soups? Isn’t it for cookies? I skipped it and it was fine.
Simple and delicious! My kids even liked it, which says a lot. Will definitely make again!
Not worth it. A waste of my butternut squash. I was expecting more flavor. 🤨
Very simple and easy to follow. The kids loved it!
Meh. I don’t see what all the hype is about with squash soup. It’s not bad, but I prefer tomato soup.