Butternut Squash Soup

Butternut Squash Soup is the perfect cozy recipe for chilly days. Its velvety texture, naturally sweet flavor, and fragrant seasonings make it an autumn staple in many homes. Whether served as a comforting lunch, a dinner starter, or part of a holiday spread, this soup brings a wholesome, homemade feel to any meal.

The first time I made butternut squash soup, I roasted the squash with garlic and a sprinkle of cinnamon. The kitchen smelled heavenly. One spoonful, and I was hooked. The gentle sweetness, paired with savory spices, made it a favorite for my whole family, and now it’s part of our fall and winter rotation.

If you enjoy warm, vegetable-forward soups like our Italian Meatball Soup or Italian Pastina Soup, this Butternut Squash Soup is a must-add to your comfort food list.

Why You’ll Love This Butternut Squash Soup

• Creamy and Naturally Sweet: Roasted squash blends into a velvety, luscious soup without heavy cream.
• Simple Ingredients: Just a few pantry staples deliver restaurant-quality flavor.
• Easy to Make Ahead: Great for meal prep, holiday dinners, or freezing for later.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and plant-based goodness.
• Perfect for All Diets: Easily adaptable to vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free lifestyles.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2.5–3 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1/2 cup coconut milk or heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

How to Make Butternut Squash Soup

1. Roast the Squash

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cubed squash with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes until golden and tender.

2. Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne (if using), cooking for another minute.

3. Simmer the Soup

Add roasted squash and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes to blend the flavors.

4. Blend and Serve

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, let it cool slightly and blend in batches in a regular blender. Stir in coconut milk or cream if using. Taste and adjust salt and spices.

Serving and Storage

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve hot, garnished with a swirl of cream, toasted pumpkin seeds, or fresh herbs.
• Pair with a crusty slice of bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal.

Storage:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Cool completely and freeze in single-serve containers for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm on the stove over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.

Variations and Substitutions

• Make It Spicier: Add ginger, curry powder, or extra cayenne.
• Add Apples or Carrots: Roasting these with the squash adds a subtle sweetness.
• Use Sweet Potatoes: Swap some or all the squash for roasted sweet potatoes.
• Vegan/Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk instead of cream for a plant-based version.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, thaw it first and adjust roasting time if needed.

Do I have to roast the squash?
No, but roasting deepens the flavor. You can also simmer raw squash directly in the broth until soft.

Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely. It tastes even better the next day and freezes well.

Final Thoughts

Creamy, fragrant, and bursting with cozy fall flavors, this Butternut Squash Soup is everything you need for a nourishing and satisfying bowl. It’s the perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeks, dinner parties, or cozy nights at home.

For more comforting seasonal recipes, check out our growing collection at Mealova Recipes and discover your next favorite soup.