Butternut Squash Soup with Cream
Creamy and comforting, this butternut squash soup is perfect for chilly evenings and makes a delightful starter or main dish.
This butternut squash soup is a comforting dish that combines the natural sweetness of squash with the richness of cream, creating a velvety texture that warms the soul. Perfect for any occasion, it’s not only delicious but also easy to make!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that warms you up
- Naturally sweet and flavorful butternut squash
- Perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining guests
The Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. This versatile vegetable is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy vision and a strong immune system. Additionally, its high fiber content aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness, making it a great option for those watching their weight.
Moreover, the natural sweetness of butternut squash adds depth to this soup, eliminating the need for added sugars. This allows you to enjoy a comforting bowl of soup that is both satisfying and nutritious, perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm.
Perfect Pairings
This creamy butternut squash soup pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. For a delightful lunch or light dinner, consider serving it with crusty bread or a fresh salad. The contrast of textures will enhance your dining experience, making each bite more enjoyable.
If you’re looking to impress guests, serve the soup as a starter before a more elaborate main course. Its rich flavors and elegant presentation will set the tone for a memorable meal. You can even add a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or croutons for added crunch and visual appeal.
Storing and Reheating
Leftover butternut squash soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This makes it a great option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a homemade dish any day of the week. Just be sure to cool the soup completely before refrigerating to maintain its freshness.
When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to reach your desired consistency, ensuring that every bowl is as creamy and delightful as the first.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother preparation process.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir well. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches and blend until creamy.
Add Cream and Seasonings
Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Heat through gently, but do not boil.
Serve
Serve warm, garnished with a drizzle of cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
This soup pairs well with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
For an elevated dining experience, consider garnishing your butternut squash soup with a swirl of crème fraîche or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also complement the soup's flavors beautifully.
For a heartier meal, pair the soup with a side of protein, such as grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas. This will transform your dish into a complete, balanced meal that satisfies both your hunger and taste buds.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding spices such as cumin or coriander to the soup for a warm, aromatic twist. You can also incorporate other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for additional sweetness and nutrition.
For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. This will create a delightful contrast to the creamy texture of the soup, appealing to those who enjoy a bit of heat in their dishes.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, the soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.
→ Can I freeze butternut squash soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter version.
→ Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used are gluten-free.
Butternut Squash Soup with Cream
Creamy and comforting, this butternut squash soup is perfect for chilly evenings and makes a delightful starter or main dish.
Created by: Anya Coleman
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir well. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches and blend until creamy.
Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Heat through gently, but do not boil.
Serve warm, garnished with a drizzle of cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g