This Butternut Squash Soup is a warm and comforting bowl of goodness, perfect for fall and winter. With fresh butternut squash, herbs, and spices, it brings a blend of flavors that are smooth, savory, and slightly spicy. Ideal as a dinner side or a light main, this soup is easy to prepare and sure to be a family favorite. Serve with toasted pepitas and fresh parsley for added texture and flavor.
This Butternut Squash Soup recipe is the ultimate cozy fall dish, blending creamy butternut squash with aromatic spices and herbs. It’s simple to make and perfect for a comforting dinner or holiday side dish.
INGREDIENTS
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps soften the vegetables.
- Butternut Squash (3 pounds, peeled and chopped): The main ingredient, bringing sweetness and creaminess to the soup.
- Onion (1 large, chopped): Adds a savory base flavor.
- Bell Pepper (1 large, chopped): Adds sweetness; substitute with jalapeno for a spicier version.
- Celery (1 stalk, chopped): Adds an earthy flavor that complements the squash.
- Garlic (5 cloves, chopped): Enhances the soup with aromatic depth.
- Paprika (2 tablespoons): Adds warmth; use hot paprika for more heat.
- Fresh Thyme (1 tablespoon): Provides a fresh, earthy aroma.
- Fresh Rosemary (1 tablespoon): Adds a woody, pine-like flavor.
- Cayenne Pepper (1 teaspoon): Adds a touch of heat; adjust to taste.
- Cumin (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Balances and enhances flavors.
- Chicken Stock (4 cups): The liquid base; use vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the butternut squash, onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sprinkle with a bit of salt and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and caramelize slightly.
- Step 2:
- Add the garlic, paprika, thyme, rosemary, cayenne pepper, cumin, and additional salt and pepper. Stir well and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aroma.
- Step 3:
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are very tender.
- Step 4:
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender or food processor, blend until smooth, and return to the pot.
- Step 5:
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or stock to reach your desired consistency.
- Step 6:
- Simmer the soup for an additional 5 minutes to develop more flavor.
- Step 7:
- Garnish with toasted pepitas, red chili flakes, or fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve warm with a sprinkle of toasted pepitas or red chili flakes for added texture and heat.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months, reheating gently on the stove.
Helpful Notes
- Use an immersion blender for convenience or blend in batches for a smoother texture.
- Add more cayenne pepper for a spicier version or substitute jalapeno for the bell pepper.
- Use vegetable stock for a vegetarian option without compromising flavor.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Ina Garten recommends adding a splash of cream for extra richness if desired.
- Chef Gordon Ramsay suggests roasting the squash before adding it to the pot for deeper flavor.
- Chef Jamie Oliver advises garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- Warm, comforting flavors make it perfect for fall and winter meals.
- Easy to make with minimal ingredients and prep time.
- Customizable with different spices or garnishes to suit your taste.
- Healthy, nutritious, and can be made vegan or vegetarian.
VARIATIONS
- For a creamy soup, add a swirl of coconut milk or heavy cream before serving.
- Use roasted red peppers instead of bell peppers for a sweeter, smoky flavor.
- Add carrots for extra sweetness or apples for a hint of tartness.
- Top with croutons or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added texture and flavor.