Best Butternut Squash Soup Ever Recipe

Best Butternut Squash Soup Ever Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Butternut Squash Soup

This delicious butternut squash soup is the perfect fall recipe, blending the sweetness of the squash with savory spices. Its smooth, flavorful, and easy to prepare!

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoons butter
  • onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • cube chicken bouillon
  • 1 pinch ground cumin
  • 1 pinch ground allspice
  • Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

  1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and thyme sprigs. Saut for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
  3. Add the cubed butternut squash and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
  4. Let the soup cook for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the squash is tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
  5. Crumbled chicken bouillon into the soup, stirring well to dissolve.
  6. Season the soup with cumin, allspice, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove the pot from heat.
  7. Using a blender, carefully pour the soup in batches, filling the blender no more than halfway. Cover with the lid, using a kitchen towel to hold it in place. Start with a few quick pulses to get the soup moving, then blend until smooth.
  8. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender to pure the soup directly in the pot.
  9. Once blended, pour the soup into a serving bowl and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient Amount % Daily Value*
Calories 140 -
Total Fat 5g 7%
Saturated Fat 3g 15%
Cholesterol 12mg 4%
Sodium 866mg 38%
Total Carbohydrate 24g 9%
Dietary Fiber 6g 22%
Total Sugars 2g -
Protein 4g 7%
Vitamin C 10mg 11%
Calcium 60mg 5%
Iron 2mg 8%
Potassium 322mg 7%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

This smooth and flavorful butternut squash soup recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and savory, seasoned with cumin, allspice, and fresh thyme. A perfect dish for chilly fall evenings, it offers a comforting and healthy meal that brings warmth to your table. But the story behind this classic soup and its regional nuances make it even more interesting. Lets dive into the history, regional variations, and some fun facts about butternut squash soup.

History of Butternut Squash Soup

Butternut squash, a variety of pumpkin with a smooth texture and sweet flavor, has been cultivated in the Americas for centuries. Indigenous peoples in North America were among the first to grow and use squashes in their cooking, and they recognized the vegetables versatility. It wasnt until the 20th century, however, that butternut squash became a staple in soups, as modern culinary techniques and flavor combinations began to evolve. The soup itself likely emerged in the 1960s as part of the American trend toward creamier, pureed vegetable soups. This dish gained popularity for its rich texture and natural sweetness, becoming a fall and winter favorite in households and restaurants alike.

Regional Variations of Butternut Squash Soup

While the basic ingredients of butternut squash soup remain the same, regional variations reflect the diverse tastes and culinary traditions of different areas. In New England, for example, where squash is abundant in the autumn, the soup may be enriched with cream and a dash of maple syrup, reflecting the regions love for sweet-savory combinations. In the Southern U.S., its common to add bacon or smoked sausage for an extra layer of flavor. Meanwhile, in Mediterranean regions, the soup may be flavored with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs like basil and rosemary, with a hint of lemon zest for brightness.

How Butternut Squash Soup Differs from Similar Dishes

Butternut squash soup stands out from other creamy vegetable soups like pumpkin or sweet potato soup due to its naturally velvety texture and delicate sweetness. While both pumpkin and sweet potato soups share a similar creaminess, butternut squash has a smoother, slightly nutty flavor profile, making it ideal for pairing with spices like cumin and allspice. Additionally, the shape and texture of the squash make it easier to achieve a silky consistency when pureed, whereas pumpkins may require additional straining. The subtle sweetness of butternut squash also pairs wonderfully with savory seasonings, which distinguishes it from sweeter soups like carrot or parsnip soup.

Where is Butternut Squash Soup Typically Served?

Butternut squash soup is a popular dish in North America, particularly in the United States and Canada. It is often served as a starter in autumn and winter meals, particularly during Thanksgiving or harvest festivals. In restaurants, its a favorite dish during the cooler months, offering a hearty, comforting option on seasonal menus. The soup is often paired with a crusty loaf of bread or a light salad. Its also commonly seen as part of a larger dinner spread for family gatherings, where its smooth texture and rich flavors help create a festive atmosphere.

Interesting Facts About Butternut Squash Soup

  • Superfood Status: Butternut squash is packed with vitamins A and C, making it not only delicious but also a nutritious addition to your diet. Its known for its anti-inflammatory properties and high fiber content.
  • A Popular Fall Dish: In many households, butternut squash soup is a go-to dish for the fall season, often enjoyed alongside apple cider or mulled wine.
  • Creative Variations: Some cooks add unique touches to their butternut squash soup by incorporating fruits like apples or pears for extra sweetness, or by blending in coconut milk for a creamy texture with a tropical twist.
  • Global Influence: While butternut squash is most commonly used in North America, its versatility has made it popular around the world. In India, you might find butternut squash soups spiced with curry or coconut, while in Europe, its often paired with hearty root vegetables.

Conclusion

Butternut squash soup is more than just a fall comfort food its a dish with history, regional twists, and endless variations. Whether youre sticking to the classic American version or experimenting with international flavors, this soup is sure to warm you up. Its smooth texture, rich flavor, and health benefits make it a perfect addition to any meal. So the next time you enjoy a bowl of butternut squash soup, remember its humble origins, regional twists, and the creative possibilities that make it a global favorite.

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FAQ about Best Butternut Squash Soup Ever Recipe

Yes, you can store leftover butternut squash soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can warm it up on the stove or in the microwave. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, add a little extra broth or water when reheating to bring it back to your desired consistency.

Yes, butternut squash soup freezes well. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then heat it up on the stove. You may need to add some extra broth or seasoning to freshen it up.

Yes, you can substitute butternut squash with other types of squash like acorn squash, pumpkin, or kabocha. Keep in mind that each type of squash has a slightly different texture and flavor, but they all work well in soup recipes.

Peeling the squash is optional. Some people prefer to leave the skin on to retain more nutrients, as it adds fiber and vitamins. However, if you prefer a smoother texture, it's best to peel the squash before cooking.

Yes, you can easily make this soup vegan by swapping out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omitting the chicken bouillon. You can also use olive oil or coconut oil in place of the butter for a vegan version.

Yes, using pre-cubed butternut squash is a great time-saver. It can be found in most grocery stores, especially in the produce section or frozen aisle. Just make sure to adjust cooking times, as pre-cubed squash may cook faster.

This soup pairs well with a variety of sides. Some popular options include crusty bread, a side salad, or a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche. For added texture, try sprinkling roasted pumpkin seeds or crispy bacon on top.

To add heat to the soup, you can sprinkle in some cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a diced jalapeño during the cooking process. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.

Yes, if you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk when blending the soup. This will make it smoother and richer. You can also stir in some cream at the end, right before serving.

If your soup turns out too thin, you can let it simmer for a bit longer to reduce and thicken. Alternatively, you can add more roasted squash or even a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to help thicken it.

Comments

Heather Lopez

01/15/2024 10:01:29 AM

Absolutely delicious! I roasted a whole butternut squash on a baking sheet under the broiler for about 5 minutes to enhance its flavor after dicing it. I substituted lemon thyme from my garden for regular thyme, but otherwise followed the recipe with the same seasonings. It was a perfect dish for the first snowfall in the mountains. Thank you!

Sarah Anderson

07/17/2023 06:31:32 PM

I absolutely love this recipe! I roasted a whole squash in the oven at 400 degrees for 40 minutes, and then followed the instructions to combine all the ingredients in a pot. The combination of cumin and allspice adds a unique and delicious flavor to the soup. Depending on the size of the squash, I sometimes need to adjust the consistency with a bit of chicken stock. My husband enjoys adding a dollop of sour cream, and my kids keep asking for this soup regularly. It's the best!

Daniel Parker

11/24/2024 10:28:58 PM

I sautéed diced onion and thyme in a mixture of bacon fat and butter, then added garlic towards the end of cooking. After cubing the squash and tossing it with salt, pepper, and olive oil, I baked it at 400 degrees for 30 minutes. Next, I combined the cooked ingredients in a stock pot with chicken broth and pureed the mixture. I seasoned it with cumin, allspice (or you can try using 1 tsp of ginger and 1/2 tsp of cinnamon), bouillon, and more chicken broth if necessary, then pureed it again. Before serving, I recommend sprinkling with crushed red pepper and crispy bacon bits. For a creamier consistency, you can also stir in coconut milk or heavy cream.

Betty Nguyen

05/29/2023 09:39:39 AM

I roasted an acorn squash along with onion and garlic for 45 minutes. Then, I added the squash to the broth in a pot with the onion and garlic and cooked it for an extra 20 minutes.

Linda Lewis

11/21/2022 03:26:24 PM

Similar to many others, I decided to roast the butternut squash in the oven initially (with olive oil, salt, and pepper), and later enhanced it with the juice of one orange along with some orange zest (inspired by another recipe). The result was absolutely delightful!

Brandon Gonzalez

03/09/2025 04:20:11 PM

Review Rewritten: Absolutely delicious! I followed the suggestion of other reviewers and prebaked the dish at 350°F for around 30 minutes. I opted to use a whole squash as some mentioned that using only half resulted in a thinner consistency. I decided to skip the bouillon as I felt it would make the dish too salty for my taste. Watching my fat intake, I was pleased that this recipe didn't contain any cream. The soup turned out wonderfully creamy and packed with flavor as it is. This will definitely become a regular dish in my home!

Debra Thomas

10/22/2022 03:27:40 PM

This butternut squash soup recipe is my absolute favorite. The flavors, enhanced by the suggested seasonings, are just perfect. I usually opt for pre-cubed butternut squash, which I can easily find at Costco. I use around 4 cups of cubed squash for this recipe. A small splash of half and half at the end, when I blend it, adds a creamy finish. An immersion stick blender is ideal for achieving a smooth texture. Some members of my family enjoy a sprinkle of bacon crumbles on top of their bowl, adding a hint of smokiness to the dish.

Katherine Wright

11/30/2022 11:13:28 PM

I absolutely love this recipe and have made it several times! It's super easy, especially with an immersion blender. I decided to enhance it by adding a cup of cream and some crumbled bacon on top.

Emily Lewis

04/17/2023 05:01:59 AM

This recipe is fantastic! I followed the instructions but decided to roast the butternut squash, onions, and garlic, which added a delicious twist to the dish. I plan to garnish it with some pumpkin seeds and a dollop of sour cream, opting for crema as it's milder. A sprinkle of grated allspice with the crema and pumpkin seeds enhances the flavors beautifully. Enjoy this delightful dish and happy autumn! 🍁🍂.

Ronald Hill

05/11/2023 05:59:03 PM

Excellent recipe! The most challenging aspect was cutting the squash...I intend to purchase pre-cubed squash next time if possible. It suited our needs perfectly (we can't consume dairy). I roasted the squash beforehand and fried the bacon until very crispy, then crumbled it on top of individual servings. I also intend to make a double batch next time and freeze half for a convenient dinner option.

William Allen

09/08/2023 04:38:53 AM

I absolutely adore this soup! Instead of boiling the squash, I prefer to roast it with butter, salt, pepper, herbs, onion, and a bell pepper. This roasting method imparts a delightful smoky flavor to the soup. I then blend all the roasted veggies with broth to create a velvety smooth texture. The result is simply delicious!

Jerry Lewis

12/04/2022 12:20:19 AM

I added a chopped green apple to add some sweetness to it.

Charles Thomas

12/03/2023 12:11:11 AM

Fabulous - это превосходно!

Rebecca Collins

12/06/2022 12:50:11 PM

As described - thumbs up!

Debra Hill

08/28/2023 11:02:43 AM

This is one of my go-to recipes that my entire family enjoys. It's always a hit!

Sharon Williams

04/22/2024 04:49:29 PM

I sprinkled some cayenne pepper on top and paired it with grated pecorino cheese. It was delicious and satisfying. I appreciate that it's creamy and rich without the need for cream.

Christopher Moore

04/15/2024 01:53:36 AM

I roasted the entire butternut squash and opted for five spice instead of allspice. I used 6 cups of chicken broth, resulting in a thick consistency. To enhance each serving, I added a touch of heavy cream. The end result? A new family favorite dish!

Katherine Davis

11/29/2023 05:32:41 PM

I made just one adjustment: I leave the skin on the squash. Simply wash it thoroughly before chopping, and you'll be adding a boost of essential nutrients and fiber to your soup! Plus, it saves a lot of time and effort!

Patrick Davis

01/30/2025 10:40:37 AM

Delicious and simple to prepare! I would suggest adding a hint of cream to enhance the flavor. The soup has a thin consistency, so adding more squash could help thicken it up.

Jessica Perez

05/21/2025 03:57:34 PM

Peeling the squash was not the most enjoyable part, but once I savored the soup, I realized it was well worth the effort. I stuck to the recipe, albeit doubling the ingredients. Since the consistency was too thin for my liking, I simmered it for an hour and a half to achieve a thicker texture. I will definitely be making this soup again.