Creamy Butternut Squash Soup: Easy Fall Recipe
There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup on a crisp autumn day. And when it comes to fall flavors, butternut squash is a star. This Butternut Squash Soup recipe is not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for a cozy night in or a comforting lunch, this soup is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Why You'll Love This Butternut Squash Soup
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can have a pot of creamy, flavorful soup ready in under an hour.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Butternut squash is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe with your favorite spices and toppings.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: A delicious and satisfying vegetarian option.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: cream, croutons, toasted pumpkin seeds
How to Make Butternut Squash Soup
- Roast the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine and Simmer: Add the roasted butternut squash to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir in the ground nutmeg. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Blend Until Smooth: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender and blend in batches. Be cautious when blending hot liquids!.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings.
Tips and Variations
- Add Spice: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Make it Creamier: Stir in a dollop of cream or coconut milk for extra richness.
- Top it Off: Get creative with toppings! Toasted pumpkin seeds, croutons, a swirl of cream, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs all add a delicious touch.
Serving Suggestions
This easy butternut squash soup is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs well with:
- Grilled cheese sandwiches
- A side salad
- Crusty bread for dipping
Health Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash isn't just delicious; it's also packed with nutrients. It's an excellent source of:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Potassium
- Fiber
Incorporating healthy soup recipes like this into your diet is a great way to boost your overall health and well-being. This homemade soup is great for you!
Perfect for Fall
As the leaves change and the air turns cooler, there's no better way to embrace the season than with a bowl of comforting fall soup recipes. This vegetarian soup will warm you from the inside out, making it the perfect dish to enjoy throughout autumn.
Enjoy this delightful Butternut Squash Soup recipe! Feel free to experiment with different spices and toppings to make it your own. What are your favorite fall soup recipes? Share in the comments below!