Is there anything more comforting than a bowl of creamy soup on a crisp fall day? I think not! And when that soup is Roasted Butternut Squash Soup? Oh, man, forget about it! The natural sweetness of the squash, that velvety texture… it’s basically autumn in a bowl.
This recipe? It’s my go-to. Seriously. It’s ridiculously easy to make, super flavorful, and actually pretty good for you! Plus, the roasting? Total game-changer. It brings out all the best flavors. I remember one year, I made a huge batch for Thanksgiving, and it was gone before the turkey! Everyone kept raving about how amazing it was. So, yeah, you *need* this recipe in your life. You really do.
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Okay, so why *this* recipe? Trust me, I’ve tried a LOT of butternut squash soups, and this one’s a winner. Seriously! Here’s the deal:
Quick and Easy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
No complicated steps here! Roasting the squash takes the most time, but it’s mostly hands-off. Then, just blend and boom! Soup’s on!
Incredibly Flavorful and Creamy
The roasting really brings out the squash’s sweetness. And that little bit of maple syrup and nutmeg? My favorite part is how they add this warm, cozy flavor that’s just perfect.
A Healthy and Vegetarian Choice
Packed with vitamins and fiber, this soup is actually good for you! Plus, it’s totally vegetarian, so everyone can enjoy it. Win-win!
Ingredients for Your Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Alright, let’s get down to business! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this amazing Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. Don’t worry, most of it’s stuff you probably already have! And trust me, it’s worth a trip to the store if you don’t. Ready?
- 1 large butternut squash (about 3 pounds), halved vertically and seeds removed. (Seriously, get a good one!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for drizzling. (The good stuff!)
- 1/2 cup chopped shallot (about 1 large shallot bulb). (Shallots are key, don’t skip ’em!)
- 1 teaspoon salt. (More or less to taste, you know?)
- 4 garlic cloves, pressed or minced. (I’m a garlic lover, so I never skimp!)
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup. (Real maple syrup, not the fake stuff!)
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg. (Just a pinch!)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste. (Always fresh!)
- 3 to 4 cups (24 to 32 ounces) vegetable broth, as needed. (I usually use low-sodium.)
- 1 to 2 tablespoons butter, to taste. (Or olive oil for dairy-free!)
How to Make Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Step-by-Step Instructions
Okay, here’s the fun part! Let’s get into how to actually MAKE this amazing Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think! Just follow these steps, and you’ll be slurping down deliciousness in no time. Promise!
Preparing the Butternut Squash for Roasting
First things first, that squash! Be careful – they can be tricky to cut. I always slice off both ends first, then stand it upright. Slice it down the middle, top to bottom. Scoop out those seeds! Drizzle the cut sides with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Now you’re ready to roast!
Roasting the Butternut Squash to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the squash cut-side DOWN on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (makes cleanup SO much easier!). Roast for 40-50 minutes, until it’s super tender. You should be able to easily poke it with a fork. Roasting is KEY here, folks! It brings out the natural sweetness and makes the soup extra flavorful. Trust me!
Blending Your Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
While the squash is roasting, sauté your shallot in olive oil with a teaspoon of salt until softened (about 3-4 minutes). Add the garlic and cook until fragrant (about a minute). Once the squash is cool enough to handle, scoop out the flesh and add it to a blender with the shallot mixture, maple syrup, nutmeg, and 3 cups of vegetable broth. Blend until smooth and creamy! Careful, it’s hot!
Seasoning and Serving Your Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Now, taste and adjust! If it’s too thick, add more broth. If it needs a little something extra, stir in a tablespoon or two of butter (or olive oil!). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with a sprinkle of black pepper. Mmmmmm!
Pro Tip: If you have an immersion blender, you can totally skip transferring everything to a regular blender! Just simmer the squash, broth, spices, and sautéed shallots and garlic in a pot for a few minutes, then blend away! Add the butter or olive oil at the end.
Tips for the Best Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Want to take your Roasted Butternut Squash Soup to the NEXT LEVEL? Of course, you do! Here are a few little tricks I’ve learned over the years to make sure it’s absolutely perfect every single time.
Safely Slicing Your Butternut Squash
Seriously, be careful with these things! They’re tough! Remember my trick: cut off both ends, stand it up, and slice downwards. Way easier (and safer!) than trying to hack at it horizontally. Trust me on this one!
Vegan/Dairy-Free Roasted Butternut Squash Soup Option
Want to keep it vegan? No problem! Just swap out the butter for olive oil. It’s just as delicious, I promise! You won’t even notice the difference. Easy peasy!
Adjusting the Consistency of Your Soup
Soup too thick? Add more broth! Too thin? Simmer it for a bit longer to let some of the liquid evaporate. I like mine somewhere in the middle – not too watery, not too gloppy. You’ll figure out what you like best!
Variations on This Roasted Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
Okay, so you’ve got the basic Roasted Butternut Squash Soup down? Awesome! Now, let’s get a little crazy and mix things up! The best part about soup is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Spice It Up! Add a Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes
Want a little kick? A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle heat that’s SO good with the sweetness of the squash. Just a pinch, though! Unless you’re a total spice fiend. Then, go for it!
Elevate the Flavor with Different Herbs
Sage and butternut squash are a match made in heaven! Try adding a teaspoon of dried sage (or a tablespoon of fresh, chopped sage) when you sauté the shallots. Thyme is also amazing! Seriously, experiment! You might just find your new favorite flavor combo.
Topping Ideas for Your Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Toppings are where it’s AT! My go-to is toasted pumpkin seeds – they add a nice crunch and nutty flavor. A swirl of coconut milk is also delicious (and pretty!). Or, how about a dollop of plain yogurt? Get creative!
Serving Suggestions for Your Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
This Roasted Butternut Squash Soup is amazing on its own, but you know what makes it even BETTER? Some yummy sides! I love serving it with a big chunk of crusty bread for dipping. A grilled cheese sandwich is also a total winner! Or, if you’re feeling virtuous, a simple salad does the trick. Basically, anything goes!
Storing and Reheating Your Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Made too much Roasted Butternut Squash Soup? Lucky you! It keeps great. Just pop it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Or, for longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Easy peasy!
Frequently Asked Questions About Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Got questions about making the *perfect* Roasted Butternut Squash Soup? I got you! Here are a few of the most common questions I get asked, plus my super-helpful answers. Let’s get to it!
Can I use pre-cut butternut squash?
Okay, so, YES, you *can* use pre-cut squash. But honestly? It’s just not quite the same. The flavor won’t be as intense, and sometimes it can be a little dry. If you’re short on time, go for it! But if you want the BEST Roasted Butternut Squash Soup, stick with the whole squash and roast it yourself. You’ll taste the difference, I promise!
Can I freeze Roasted Butternut Squash Soup?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great way to save any leftovers. Just let the soup cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers (leave a little room at the top, since liquids expand when frozen!). It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
How long does Roasted Butternut Squash Soup last in the fridge?
Your delicious Roasted Butternut Squash Soup will happily hang out in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s stored in an airtight container. If you see any mold (ew!), toss it. But if it looks and smells good, dig in!
Nutrition Information for Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Okay, quick disclaimer! The nutrition info below? It’s just an estimate. Seriously! It can totally vary depending on the exact brands and ingredients you use. So, take it with a grain of salt, okay? Just wanted to give you a heads up!
Enjoyed This Roasted Butternut Squash Soup Recipe? Leave a Comment and Rate It!
Loved this Roasted Butternut Squash Soup? Let me know! Leave a comment below and give it a star rating! I’d love to hear from you!
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Fail-Proof Roasted Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 55 mins
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 bowls or 6 cups 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Roasting, Blending
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy this creamy and comforting roasted butternut squash soup, perfect for a chilly day. Roasting the squash brings out its natural sweetness, while a touch of maple syrup and nutmeg add warmth and depth.
Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash (about 3 pounds), halved vertically and seeds removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1/2 cup chopped shallot (about 1 large shallot bulb)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 garlic cloves, pressed or minced
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 to 4 cups (24 to 32 ounces) vegetable broth, as needed
- 1 to 2 tablespoons butter, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place squash on the pan, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Turn squash face down and roast for 40 to 50 minutes, until tender. Let cool.
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add shallot and 1 teaspoon salt. Cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Transfer to a blender.
- Scoop squash flesh into the blender. Add maple syrup, nutmeg, and pepper. Pour in 3 cups vegetable broth.
- Secure the lid and blend until creamy and warmed through.
- If needed, thin with remaining broth. Add butter or olive oil, to taste, and blend. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, topped with black pepper.
Notes
- Safely slice the squash by cutting off the ends, standing it upright, and slicing from top to bottom. Scoop out seeds.
- For a dairy-free/vegan option, substitute olive oil for butter.
- Store leftover soup in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- If using an immersion blender, cook the shallot mixture in a pot. Add squash, broth, maple syrup, nutmeg, and pepper. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Blend with the immersion blender, then add butter or olive oil and season to taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg