Name: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup Recipe: Creamy Delight with Turkey Bacon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 whole butternut squash (3–4 lbs); 1 medium onion; 1 head garlic (wrapped in foil); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon fine sea salt; ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper; 1 teaspoon fresh chopped sage; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves; 3 cups vegetable stock (or chicken stock); ½ cup heavy cream (or cashew cream/coconut milk)

Introduction to Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Roasted butternut squash soup is not just a dish; it's a warm embrace on a chilly evening, especially for busy young professionals. Picture this: you've had a long day at work, and the last thing you want to think about is dinner. Enter this delicious and comforting soup, which can be prepped in a mere 15 minutes and left to roast while you unwind after a hectic day.

So why is this roasted butternut squash soup recipe a game-changer? For starters, it celebrates seasonal ingredients that are not only delicious but also nutritious. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, and you can easily swap in heavy cream alternatives like cashew cream or coconut milk for a healthier twist. Plus, it’s a fantastic opportunity to indulge in a moment of self-care through cooking, allowing you to connect with your food while enjoying the simple pleasure of aroma wafting through your kitchen.

With a handful of ingredients and little fuss, you’ll have a vibrant, hearty meal at your fingertips that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and meal prep for the week ahead. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Creating a delicious roasted butternut squash soup recipe starts with selecting quality ingredients. Here’s what you'll need:

1 butternut squash (3–4 lbs): Look for a firm, glossy skin; it should feel heavy for its size.
1 medium onion: A sweet variety like Vidalia adds great depth.
1 head garlic: Roasting garlic mellows its bite and enhances the flavor.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Extra virgin is ideal for that rich taste and healthy fats.
1 teaspoon fine sea salt: This helps to enhance the natural sweetness of the squash.
½ teaspoon cracked black pepper: Freshly cracked adds a nice kick.
1 teaspoon fresh chopped sage: The aromatic herbs make a big difference.
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves: A lovely complement to the earthiness of the squash.
3 cups vegetable stock (or chicken stock): Homemade is best, but store-bought works fine too!
½ cup heavy cream (or cashew cream/coconut milk): This enriches the soup’s texture.

Each ingredient contributes to a warm, comforting flavor profile that’s perfect for any occasion. For more tips on selecting produce, check out this guide on how to choose seasonal vegetables from Epicurious.

Preparing Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

When the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp, there's nothing better than a cozy bowl of soup. This roasted butternut squash soup recipe is not only simple but incredibly satisfying. Let’s walk you through the steps for an easy and delicious experience.

Gather your ingredients

Before diving into the kitchen, take a moment to gather all your ingredients. This helps keep the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. For this recipe, you’ll need:

1 butternut squash (3–4 lbs)
1 medium onion
1 head garlic
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
1 teaspoon fresh chopped sage
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
3 cups vegetable stock (or chicken stock)
½ cup heavy cream (or cashew cream/coconut milk)

It's always a good idea to use fresh herbs if you can—they'll really brighten up your flavor profile. You can find some great tips about ingredient selection at The Produce Moms.

Roast the squash and garlic

Now that your ingredients are ready, let’s get to roasting! Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Start by halving the butternut squash and scooping out the seeds.
Chop the onion into large pieces.
Drizzle a whole head of garlic with olive oil and wrap it in foil.

Place the squash, onion, and wrapped garlic on your baking sheet. Drizzle everything with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, sage, and thyme. These herbs will infuse the vegetables with a delightful aroma. Roast the mixture for about 45 minutes until everything is tender.

Blend the roasted goodness

Once your veggies are done roasting, let them cool for a few minutes. Then, scoop out the flesh of the butternut squash and squeeze the garlic out of its skins. In a stockpot, mix your roasted vegetables with vegetable or chicken stock.

Take an immersion blender and blend until completely smooth. If you don't have one, a regular blender works too—just be cautious with the hot contents!

Heat and mix in the cream

After blending, put the pot back on low heat. This is where things get creamy! Stir in the heavy cream or your chosen alternative like cashew cream or coconut milk. This adds a rich texture that elevates the soup to a whole new level.

Adjust seasonings to taste

The final step is to taste your soup and adjust the seasonings. Sometimes a little more salt or pepper can make a world of difference. Don’t be shy about experimenting—this is your masterpiece!

Serve your roasted butternut squash soup warm, and maybe enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread on the side. Who could resist? Happy cooking!

Variations on Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Creamy Coconut Butternut Squash Soup

If you’re a fan of tropical flavors, try adding coconut milk to your roasted butternut squash soup recipe. Simply replace the heavy cream with a can of creamy coconut milk. This not only enriches the soup but also adds a delightful sweetness. To enhance the tropical vibe, consider mixing in lime juice and zest—these simple tweaks can take your soup to a whole new level! Coconut milk benefits include being dairy-free and packed with nutrients, making it perfect for various dietary preferences.

Spicy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

For those who crave a bit of heat, why not spice things up? Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to your roasted vegetables before baking. This will give your roasted butternut squash soup recipe a warm kick that complements the natural sweetness of the squash. Top off your finished soup with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt and a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra touch. Spices not only enhance flavor but can also provide health benefits, including increased metabolism.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

When making your roasted butternut squash soup recipe, consider the following tips to elevate your dish:

Choosing Your Squash: Look for a firm, heavy squash with a smooth skin. This ensures ripeness and better flavor.
Garlic Goodness: Use roasted garlic for a sweeter and richer flavor. Just pop out those cloves after roasting!
Texture Matters: For an extra creamy soup, blend it thoroughly with an immersion blender or a standard blender. If it feels too thick, adjust with additional stock.
Herbal Touch: Fresh herbs like sage or thyme add vibrant flavor. If using dried herbs, remember they are more concentrated—reduce the quantity.
Serving Suggestions: Top with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of croutons for that delightful crunch.

These simple adjustments can turn your butternut squash soup into a comforting, seasonal favorite!

Serving Suggestions for Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Ready to elevate your roasted butternut squash soup recipe? Here are some delightful serving suggestions!

Garnishes: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a swirl of cream can really bring your soup to life. Top with toasted pumpkin seeds for a satisfying crunch.
Accompaniments: This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a warm baguette, making it perfect for dipping. You could also serve it alongside a light salad for a complete meal.
Flavor Twists: Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat or fresh herbs like cilantro for an aromatic flair.

Experimenting with these ideas will not only enhance your dish but also impress your guests!

Time breakdown for Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Preparation time
Get ready in just 15 minutes! This includes peeling, chopping, and preparing the ingredients for roasting.

Cooking time
Allow for 45 minutes in the oven while your soup’s ingredients roast to perfection. This makes the flavors truly shine.

Total time
In just an hour, you’ll have a comforting bowl of roasted butternut squash soup. Perfect for a weeknight meal or cozy gathering!

For more detailed cooking tips and nutritional insights, be sure to check out this helpful guide on preparing butternut squash. Remember, timing is key to crafting the perfect soup!

Nutritional Facts for Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

When you dive into a comforting bowl of roasted butternut squash soup, knowing its nutritional profile can enhance your enjoyment. Here’s a quick overview of the key stats per serving:

Calories: 210
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 480mg

This wholesome soup not only delights your taste buds but also offers a nourishing blend of vitamins and minerals. Tasty and nutritious, it’s perfect for lunch or dinner! If you're keen to explore more about the benefits of squash, check out the health insights from Healthline for deeper nutritional information.

FAQs about Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Absolutely! Using frozen butternut squash is a great time-saver and can still yield a delicious roasted butternut squash soup recipe. Just make sure to thaw it beforehand, drain excess moisture, and follow the same roasting instructions. This way, you capture those sweet flavors without the hassle of peeling and chopping.

How can I make it vegan?

Making this soup vegan is simple. Just substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. These alternatives will keep your soup rich and creamy while catering to a vegan diet. Use vegetable stock, as indicated in the recipe, to ensure everything stays plant-based.

What can I pair with butternut squash soup?

Pair your delicious soup with crusty whole-grain bread or a light side salad for a balanced meal. You might also consider adding some grilled turkey bacon for a savory crunch. For a bit of crunch, roasted pumpkin seeds make a wonderful topping! Feel free to experiment—this soup is versatile enough to complement various flavors.

For more kitchen tips, check out The Kitchn for a deep dive into preparing seasonal soups!

Conclusion on Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

In summary, this roasted butternut squash soup recipe is a must-try for its delightful flavor and comforting warmth. Easy to prepare and full of nutrients, it’s perfect for a chilly evening. Enjoy it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Happy cooking!