Creamy Squash Soup Recipe
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This creamy squash soup recipe is a warm, comforting dish perfect for chilly days.
This creamy squash soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the heart. Perfect for a cozy night in, it's made with fresh squash and a touch of cream for that luxurious texture.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, velvety texture that warms you from the inside out
- Subtle sweetness from the squash balanced with savory spices
- Easy to make and perfect for meal prep or entertaining
The Perfect Comfort Food
When the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to lift your spirits. This creamy squash soup not only offers comfort, but it also delivers a burst of flavor that can brighten even the dreariest of days. The rich, velvety texture makes it a satisfying choice, whether you're enjoying it for lunch, dinner, or as a cozy snack.
Butternut squash is the star of this dish, providing a natural sweetness that complements the savory notes perfectly. With the addition of spices like nutmeg and freshly cracked black pepper, each spoonful is a harmonious blend of flavors that tantalizes your taste buds. It's a simple yet elegant meal that can impress guests or nourish your family.
Health Benefits of Squash
Beyond its delightful taste, butternut squash is packed with nutrients that make it a great addition to your diet. Rich in vitamins A and C, it supports your immune system and promotes healthy skin. Additionally, the high fiber content aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer, making this soup a nutritious choice for any meal.
This creamy squash soup is also a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your daily routine. By blending the squash into a smooth puree, you can easily enjoy the benefits of this superfood without feeling like you're eating a salad. It's a clever way to sneak in those essential nutrients while keeping your meal both delicious and satisfying.
Versatile Serving Suggestions
One of the best aspects of this creamy squash soup is its versatility. You can serve it as a starter at a dinner party, pair it with crusty bread for a filling lunch, or enjoy it on its own as a cozy dinner option. To elevate the dish, consider garnishing with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
For those looking to add more texture, consider topping the soup with roasted pumpkin seeds or croutons. These toppings not only add a delightful crunch but also enhance the visual appeal of your dish. With just a few simple additions, you can transform this creamy soup into a gourmet experience.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 medium butternut squashes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Note: You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Instructions
Instructions
Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir for a few minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
Add Cream and Season
Stir in the heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Heat through for an additional 5 minutes, then serve warm.
Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving.
Storing and Reheating
This creamy squash soup is ideal for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week. Once cooled, transfer the soup to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing to maintain its creamy texture.
When you're ready to enjoy your soup, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the soup has thickened in the fridge or freezer, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Customization Ideas
Feel free to get creative with this recipe by adding your favorite spices or ingredients. A pinch of cayenne pepper can introduce a delightful heat, while fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add an aromatic touch. For a unique twist, consider incorporating ingredients such as apples or carrots for additional sweetness and flavor complexity.
If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. This will give you a similar creamy texture while keeping the dish dairy-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Absolutely! Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich.
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can use acorn squash, pumpkin, or even zucchini for a different flavor profile.
Creamy Squash Soup Recipe
This creamy squash soup recipe is a warm, comforting dish perfect for chilly days.
Created by: Vanessa Doyle
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 medium butternut squashes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir for a few minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
Stir in the heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Heat through for an additional 5 minutes, then serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 4g