Butternut Squash Soup

Cozy Butternut Squash Soup Recipe – A Perfect Fall Delight

As the temperatures drop, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm, flavorful bowl of butternut squash soup. This vibrant soup is smooth, creamy, and loaded with nutrients, making it an ideal meal for cozy fall evenings or holiday gatherings. Not only is it packed with seasonal vegetables and warming spices, but it also offers the flexibility to cater to various dietary preferences. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe, guaranteed to become a family favorite!

Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 pounds butternut squash, peeled, chopped, seeds removed
• 1 large onion, chopped (white or yellow)
• 1 large bell pepper, chopped (use jalapeño or hotter for a spicy version)
• 1 stalk celery, chopped
• 5 cloves garlic, chopped
• 2 tablespoons paprika (hot paprika preferred for an extra kick)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 cups chicken stock (or vegetable stock for a vegetarian option; add up to 6 cups for a thinner soup)

For Garnish (optional):

• Toasted pepitas
• Red chili flakes
• Fresh chopped parsley

Directions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped butternut squash, onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt to help the vegetables release their natural juices, and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally until the vegetables begin to soften and develop a light caramelized color.
2. Season and Sauté
   Add the chopped garlic, paprika, thyme, rosemary, cayenne pepper, and cumin. Stir the spices into the vegetables and let cook for another 2 minutes. This brief sauté allows the spices to release their full, aromatic flavors.
3. Simmer the Soup
   Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes or until all the vegetables are tender.
4. Blend to Perfection
   Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until it reaches a creamy, smooth consistency. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender or food processor in batches, blending until smooth, then returning it to the pot.
5. Adjust Seasoning and Serve
   Taste and adjust the salt and seasonings as needed. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more stock or water and let simmer for an additional 5 minutes to enhance the flavors.
6. Garnish and Enjoy
   Serve warm with a garnish of toasted pepitas, red chili flakes, and fresh parsley for added texture and a pop of color. This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad.

Recipe Notes:

• Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper and paprika to your desired spice level. For a milder soup, reduce the cayenne and use sweet paprika instead.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock for a fully vegetarian and vegan-friendly dish.
• Blending Tips: Blending hot liquids can be tricky; if using a blender, make sure to vent the lid slightly and blend in batches.

Additional Information:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: 230 kcal per serving

This butternut squash soup is a fantastic way to bring warmth and nutrition to your table, making it perfect for fall and winter. It’s easy to prepare, easy to customize, and even easier to enjoy. So grab a bowl, cozy up, and let this soup be your go-to comfort meal this season.