Creamy Winter Squash Soup Recipe – Easy, Cozy & Delicious!

Table of Contents: Winter Squash Soup

Winter Squash Soup

BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP RECIPE: The Ultimate Cozy Winter Warmer

Remember those crisp autumn days and cozy winter evenings? As we get a little older, there’s something incredibly comforting about simple, nourishing meals that warm you from the inside out. This butternut squash soup recipe is exactly that – a hug in a bowl! It’s a classic for a reason, and this version, with its deep roasted flavors and creamy texture, is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

This isn’t just any roasted squash soup; it’s a celebration of seasonal flavors. We’re taking the humble winter squash and transforming it into a velvety smooth, deeply flavorful soup that’s perfect for everything from holiday gatherings to easy weeknight dinners.

Forget complicated recipes – this creamy winter soup is surprisingly simple to make, even if you’re not a seasoned chef. It’s a dish that evokes memories and creates new ones, and we’re thrilled to share our tried-and-true method with you.

Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner party, looking for a comforting meal after a long day, or simply craving the taste of autumn, this soup delivers. It’s a beautiful, vibrant dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile – feel free to customize it with your favorite spices and toppings!

Alternate Names & Variations

This recipe goes by many names! You might also find it referred to as:

* Creamy Butternut Squash Soup
* Roasted Winter Squash Soup
* Squash and Apple Soup (adding a diced apple during roasting adds a lovely sweetness)
* Spiced Butternut Squash Soup (experiment with warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg)
* Curried Butternut Squash Soup (a teaspoon of curry powder adds a delightful exotic twist) – a delicious variation on a classic roasted squash soup.

Ingredients: Winter Squash Soup Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting bowl of goodness:

• * 2 tablespoons butter
• * 1 tablespoon olive oil
• * 1 large onion (chopped)
• * 2 stalks celery (chopped)
• 2.5 pounds winter squash (peeled, deseeded, and cut into chunks) – Butternut squash is ideal, but see FAQs for alternatives!*
• * 1 tablespoon honey
• * 5 cups chicken stock
• * Salt and Pepper (to taste)
• * Fresh Parsley (chopped, to serve – optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions: Winter Squash Soup

1. Roast the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed winter squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a large baking sheet. Spread in a single layer and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized. Chef’s Tip: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the squash!

2. Sauté the Aromatics: While the squash is roasting, melt the butter and remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until softened.

3. Combine & Simmer: Add the roasted squash to the pot with the onion and celery. Pour in the chicken stock and stir in the honey. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

4. Blend to Perfection: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (working in batches if necessary) and blend until completely smooth and creamy. Safety Tip: Vent the blender lid to prevent pressure buildup! Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot.

5. Season & Serve: Return the soup to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through gently. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Shortcut: A swirl of cream or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds adds a lovely finishing touch.

Recipe Card Block: Winter Squash Soup (Quick Reference)

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes
Servings: 4
Approximate Calories: 250 per serving (estimated)

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This butternut squash soup recipe truly shines because of the roasting process. Roasting the squash intensifies its natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor that you simply can’t achieve by boiling or steaming. The combination of butter and olive oil creates a rich base for the aromatics, while the honey adds a subtle sweetness that complements the squash beautifully.

This is truly easy comfort food for family dinners. It’s a recipe that’s forgiving and adaptable – don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices or toppings to make it your own. For a vegan version, simply substitute vegetable broth for the chicken stock and use a plant-based butter alternative.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Storage: Leftover creamy winter soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: This soup freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Tip: Leave some headspace in the container as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating: Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water if it has thickened during freezing.

People Also Ask: Winter Squash Soup

What kind of squash is best for soup?

Butternut squash is the classic choice for butternut squash soup recipe due to its sweet, nutty flavor and smooth texture. However, other winter squashes like acorn squash, kabocha squash, or even pumpkin can also be used. Each squash will impart a slightly different flavor profile, so feel free to experiment! Acorn squash has a slightly earthier flavor, while kabocha squash is known for its creamy texture. Ultimately, the best squash for soup is the one you enjoy the most.

Should you roast squash before making soup?

Absolutely! Roasting the squash before making soup is highly recommended. It concentrates the flavors, enhances the sweetness, and creates a richer, more complex taste. While you can boil or steam the squash, roasting adds a depth of flavor that’s simply unmatched. This is what elevates this roasted squash soup from good to exceptional.

How do you make squash soup creamy?

There are several ways to achieve a creamy texture in your creamy winter soup. The most common method is to blend the soup until smooth using a blender or immersion blender. You can also add a touch of cream, coconut milk, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt after blending for extra richness. Roasting the squash also contributes to a naturally creamy texture.

What spices go well with squash soup?

Squash soup is incredibly versatile when it comes to spices. Warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves are classic pairings. Curry powder adds a delightful exotic twist, while a pinch of cayenne pepper can provide a subtle kick. Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth of flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite spice combination!

Conclusion: Winter Squash Soup Recipe

So there you have it – a truly comforting and delicious butternut squash soup recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. We hope you’ll give it a try and experience the magic of roasted squash soup for yourself. Don’t forget to share your creations with us! We love seeing your photos and hearing about your cooking adventures. Happy cooking!

You Might Also Like:

– Grilled Sockeye Salmon Recipe – Easy, Flaky & Delicious in 20 Mins!
– Easy Salmon Tikka Masala Recipe – Creamy, Spicy & Delicious!
– Easy Béarnaise Sauce Recipe – Rich, Buttery & Perfect for Steak!
– Fall Farro Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash and Apples

Find Us On Pinterest and Facebook.

Print