There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, and this simple butternut squash soup recipe is sure to satisfy. With its creamy texture and sweet, slightly nutty flavor, this soup is a perfect way to enjoy the fall harvest. Butternut squash is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, and it’s also a good source of fiber, making it a healthy choice as well as a delicious one.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this soup is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. You can add different spices, such as nutmeg or cinnamon, to give it a more complex flavor, or you can puree it until it’s completely smooth or leave it slightly chunky for a more rustic texture. No matter how you choose to make it, this simple butternut squash soup is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
How To Make Simple Butternut Squash Soup
To make this simple butternut squash soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
You will also need the following equipment:
- Dutch oven or large pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Immersion blender or regular blender
Once you have gathered your ingredients and equipment, follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
- Add the butternut squash and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash starts to soften.
- Add the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
- Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, be sure to work in batches and be careful not to overfill the blender.
- Stir in the heavy cream, if desired. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the soup immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
Tips or Possible Variations
Here are a few tips for making the best possible simple butternut squash soup:
- For a richer flavor, roast the butternut squash before making the soup. Cut the squash into cubes and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized.
- Add other vegetables to the soup, such as carrots, celery, or potatoes. This will give the soup a more complex flavor and make it more filling.
- Add different spices to the soup to give it a more complex flavor. Nutmeg, cinnamon, and curry powder are all good choices.
There are also many possible variations on this simple butternut squash soup recipe. Here are a few ideas:
- Make a vegan butternut squash soup by omitting the heavy cream and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Make a spicy butternut squash soup by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Make a creamy butternut squash soup by adding more heavy cream or milk.
No matter how you choose to make it, this simple butternut squash soup is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. It’s a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
