As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold, I find myself craving the cozy flavors of fall. There’s something truly special about preparing warm, hearty meals during this season, and my healthy butternut squash soup fits the bill perfectly. It’s comforting, nourishing, and bursting with the goodness of seasonal ingredients! I love how this recipe brings warmth and joy to my kitchen, filling the air with the delightful aroma of roasting vegetables and fragrant spices. Plus, it’s an easy way to include more veggies in your diet without sacrificing flavor. Trust me, whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening at home or hosting family for dinner, this soup is sure to provide that lovely, heartwarming feeling we all crave during the fall months. So grab your pot and let’s make some magic happen in the kitchen together!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed (about 1 medium squash)
- 1 cup carrots, sliced (roughly 2 large carrots)
- 1 cup onion, chopped (1 medium onion works well)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or more if you love garlic!)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium if you prefer less salt)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if you have it on hand)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (adds a lovely warmth)
- Salt to taste (start with a pinch and adjust as needed)
- Pepper to taste (freshly ground if possible for better flavor)
How to Prepare Instructions
Now, let’s dive into making this delightful butternut squash soup! I promise, it’s not complicated at all. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, comforting bowl ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Preparation
- First, grab a large pot and heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Just enough to coat the bottom will do!
- Next, toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté these together until the onions become soft and translucent, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. This is where the magic begins, and your kitchen will start smelling divine!
- Now, add the cubed butternut squash and sliced carrots to the pot. Stir everything together to combine. The vibrant colors are so inviting!
- Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring all the vegetables are covered. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes, so keep an eye on it!
- Once boiling, it’s time to add the dried thyme, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir well to distribute those lovely flavors throughout the soup.
- Now, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. You want the squash and carrots to be tender and easy to blend.
- After the simmering time, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches. Just remember to leave a little space in the lid to allow steam to escape—safety first!
- Once blended, return the soup to the pot and give it a taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve it warm and enjoy the cozy vibes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This butternut squash soup is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for chilly fall evenings.
- It’s packed with nutritious ingredients, making it a healthy addition to your meal rotation.
- The preparation is straightforward, so you’ll be enjoying your warm bowl in no time.
- It’s a versatile recipe that allows for easy substitutions, catering to various dietary preferences.
- The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen and warm your heart, making it a joy to cook and share.
Tips for Success
To ensure your butternut squash soup turns out perfectly, here are some handy tips! First, when cutting the butternut squash, use a sharp knife and a steady cutting board. Squash can be tough, so take your time and be careful. If you find it tricky to peel, microwaving the squash for a minute or two can make it easier!
Also, don’t skip sautéing the onions and garlic; it really enhances the flavor of the soup. If you prefer a creamier texture, feel free to add a splash of cream or coconut milk right before serving. And remember, always taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to your liking. When blending the soup, be cautious of hot splatters—an immersion blender is fantastic for this, but if you use a regular blender, vent the lid slightly.
Lastly, this soup is even better the next day, so consider making a double batch to enjoy later!
Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up with this butternut squash soup, I’ve got some delicious ideas for you! Substitute sweet potatoes for the butternut squash for a sweeter twist, or add in some chopped apples for a hint of fruitiness that pairs beautifully with the spices. You can also throw in some greens like spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrients—just add them in during the last few minutes of cooking. For a spicy kick, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have any leftovers (which is a delightful treat!), let the soup cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Just remember to label them with the date!
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw any frozen soup overnight in the fridge. Reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through. You can also microwave it in a bowl, covered with a microwave-safe lid, making sure to stir halfway through for even heating. Enjoy your cozy bowl of goodness!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutrition you’ll be enjoying with this delicious butternut squash soup! Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 150 calories, making it a light yet satisfying meal. You’ll also get 2 grams of fat, 3 grams of protein, and 30 grams of carbohydrates, along with 6 grams of dietary fiber to keep your tummy happy! Plus, it’s naturally low in sugar at just 5 grams per serving. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy the nourishing goodness in every bowl!
FAQ Section
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This butternut squash soup is great for meal prep. You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen and improve over time!
What can I use instead of vegetable broth?
If you prefer a different base, chicken broth works well too, or you can make your own homemade broth with leftover vegetable scraps. Just be mindful of the salt content if you’re watching your sodium intake.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes beautifully! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, indeed! This soup is completely vegan, making it a wonderful choice for anyone looking for healthy fall recipes that fit their dietary needs.
What can I serve with this soup?
A warm crusty bread or a simple salad pairs perfectly with this soup. It makes for a delightful and filling meal!

Fall Recipes Healthy: 7 Delicious Comfort Foods to Enjoy
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A comforting and healthy fall recipe that brings warmth to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onions and garlic. Sauté until soft.
- Add butternut squash and carrots. Stir well.
- Pour in vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
- Add thyme, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to blend until smooth.
- Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- You can substitute sweet potato for butternut squash.
- Use low-sodium broth for less salt.
- Add a splash of cream for a richer flavor.
- Top with pumpkin seeds for added crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: healthy fall recipes, comfort food, easy soup recipes