As the chilly winds of winter set in, there's nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of Creamy Winter Squash Soup to lift your spirits and nourish your soul. This velvety soup, bursting with the sweet, nutty flavors of butternut squash, is not only a delightful treat for your taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 45 minutes of your time, you can create a dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Ready to impress? Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to whip up a bowl of pure comfort!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the garlic's aromatic flavors.
- Add the peeled and cubed butternut squash to the pot, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic.
- Pour vegetable broth over the squash mixture, ensuring all squash pieces are submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the squash is tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a standard blender and blend until completely smooth.
- Return the pot to low heat and stir in the cream, mixing thoroughly to incorporate and create a rich, velvety texture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls. Optional: Garnish with a swirl of cream, chopped herbs, or toasted pumpkin seeds before serving.
Tips
- Choose the Right Squash: While butternut squash is the star of this recipe, you can also experiment with other varieties like acorn or pumpkin for a different flavor profile.
- Sauté for Flavor: Don’t rush the sautéing process! Allow the onions to become translucent and the garlic to release its aromatic oils; this step builds the soup's rich base.
- Perfectly Cooked Squash: Make sure the squash is tender before blending. If it's not soft enough, it won't puree smoothly, leaving you with a chunky texture.
- Blending Options: An immersion blender makes the process easy and mess-free. If using a standard blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid steam buildup.
- Cream Variations: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or even coconut milk for the cream. This adds a unique twist while keeping it creamy.
- Garnish for Presentation: Elevate your soup by garnishing with a swirl of cream, fresh herbs like parsley or chives, or even toasted pumpkin seeds for added texture and flavor.
- Make It Ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat and enjoy a warm bowl of comfort whenever you need it!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 40mg
