Butternut squash soup is one of the most beloved soups for its creamy texture, natural sweetness, and warm flavors. Perfect for autumn and winter, this recipe highlights the rich, nutty taste of roasted butternut squash, complemented by simple ingredients. In this article, I will instruct you how to make the best butternut squash soup at home.

1. Best Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 large butternut squash (about 3 pounds), halved vertically and seeds removed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
  • ½ cup chopped shallot (about 1 large shallot bulb)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 garlic cloves, pressed or minced
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 to 4 cups chicken broth (24 to 32 ounces, depending on desired consistency)
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons butter, to taste

Instructions

Roast the Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle the cut sides of the butternut squash with olive oil and place them face down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 45–50 minutes or until the flesh is tender and caramelized around the edges. Let it cool slightly, then scoop out the flesh and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to let it burn.

Blend the Soup

Add the roasted squash flesh, salt, maple syrup, nutmeg, and freshly ground black pepper to the pot. Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth (start with less if you prefer a thicker soup) and stir. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the mixture in batches to a blender and blend until creamy.

Simmer and Finish

Return the soup to the pot (if using a blender) and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in 1–2 tablespoons of butter for added richness. Adjust the consistency by adding more chicken broth if needed, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and drizzle with a little olive oil. Garnish with your choice of toppings, such as roasted pumpkin seeds, a swirl of cream, or fresh herbs.

2. Tips to Perfect Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

Roast for Flavor

Roasting the squash intensifies its natural sweetness and enhances the soup’s depth of flavor. Be sure to roast until the edges caramelize slightly.

Choose the Right Squash

Use a squash that feels heavy for its size with a firm, even skin. This ensures a creamy and flavorful result.

Don’t Skip the Maple Syrup

A small amount of maple syrup balances the savory flavors with a subtle sweetness, adding complexity to the soup.

Blend Thoroughly

Blending the soup until completely smooth ensures a velvety texture. An immersion blender is convenient, but a high-powered blender works just as well.

Customize the Consistency

Adjust the thickness by adding more or less broth, depending on your preference.

3. Recipe Variations

Vegan Butternut Squash Soup

Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and swap butter for coconut oil or vegan butter for a plant-based version.

Healthy Butternut Squash Soup

Skip the butter and reduce the olive oil slightly. Add extra vegetables such as carrots or celery for a nutrient boost.

Smoky Butternut Squash Soup

Add ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to introduce a smoky depth to the soup.

Spicy Butternut Squash Soup

Sprinkle in ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or add 1 chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce for a spicy kick.

Coconut Butternut Squash Soup

Use coconut milk instead of butter for a creamy, dairy-free twist. This variation pairs beautifully with lime juice and fresh cilantro.

4. What to Eat With Butternut Squash Soup

Pairing the soup with complementary sides enhances its flavors and makes for a satisfying meal. Consider these options:

Breads: Serve with crusty baguette slices, garlic bread, or warm pita for dipping.

Salads: A fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette balances the soup’s richness.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A gooey, cheesy sandwich pairs perfectly with the creamy soup.

Roasted Vegetables: Add variety to the table with roasted Brussels sprouts or root vegetables.

Cheese Boards: A selection of cheeses, nuts, and fruits makes for a sophisticated pairing.

5. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Storage

Allow the soup to cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much. If frozen, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Butternut squash soup is a versatile dish that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable. The rich, creamy texture and warm flavors make it a go-to recipe for chilly days.

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Julia Jane is a home cook inspired by her mother's cooking. With the desire to share my cooking experiences with everyone, she created this website

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