Soup Season Recipe: Butternut Squash Soup
There’s something about this time of year that calls for soup simmering on the stove. Maybe it’s the chill in the air, maybe it’s the shift in pace as we move indoors — but one thing’s certain: soup season is officially here, and my kitchen is ready.
When it comes to cozy, flavorful comfort in a bowl, butternut squash soup is one of my all-time favorites. It’s a dish that checks every box: vibrant, velvety, and surprisingly simple — especially when you use fresh, seasonal ingredients.
The Secret to a Great Butternut Squash Soup
The magic starts before you even turn on the stove. The secret? Roasting the squash.
Roasting brings out a deep, caramelized sweetness that you’ll never get by boiling or steaming. I like to slice the squash in half, drizzle it generously with olive oil, and season it with salt, pepper, and just a touch of smoked paprika. Then it goes into a 400°F oven for about 40 minutes — just until the edges start to brown and the flesh turns tender and golden.
Once roasted, that squash becomes the foundation for a soup that’s both rich and balanced.
Sourcing Matters
Whenever possible, I pick up my squash from local markets or small farms — the kind where you can actually smell the earth still clinging to the skin. Seasonal ingredients simply taste better, and they’re a reminder that food has a story before it hits the plate.
If you can, grab your butternut squash, onions, and herbs locally — not only will your soup taste fresher, but you’ll be supporting the growers who keep our regional food scene alive and thriving.
Chef Ken’s Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
1 large butternut squash, halved and seeded
2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for roasting)
1 yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable or chicken stock
½ teaspoon ground cumin
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
Optional garnish: spiced cream (recipe below), toasted pepitas, or a drizzle of sage brown butter
Directions:
Roast the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Drizzle the squash halves with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast cut-side down for about 40 minutes or until fork-tender.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, cumin, and cinnamon, and cook another minute.
Blend It Up: Scoop out the roasted squash and add it to the pot. Pour in the stock and bring to a simmer for 10 minutes.
Puree Until Smooth: Use an immersion blender (or carefully transfer to a standard blender in batches) until silky smooth.
Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk, season with salt and pepper, and warm through.
Optional Spiced Cream:
Combine ½ cup sour cream with a pinch each of cayenne, smoked paprika, and cinnamon. Swirl it into your soup before serving for that perfect sweet-and-spicy balance.
Make It Ahead — Or Let Me Make It for You
This soup is one of those perfect make-ahead dishes — the flavor only gets better after a day in the fridge. You can serve it as a starter at your next dinner party, or make it the main attraction alongside crusty bread and a crisp salad.
And if you’d rather just enjoy the evening without lifting a finger, that’s where I come in. Hosting dinner parties is what I do best — from shopping and prep to cooking and cleanup, I handle every detail so you can focus on your guests (and maybe that second glass of wine).
Holiday Bookings & Gift Certificates
The holidays are my busiest time of year, and dates are filling up fast. If you’ve been thinking about hosting a dinner party — or gifting one — now’s the time to book.
My new website makes it easier than ever to reserve your date or send a print-on-demand gift certificate that’s guaranteed to wow anyone on your list.
Warm your home (and your heart) this season — whether with a pot of homemade soup or a private dining experience designed just for you.
🍽️ Book your next experience or grab a gift certificate here: theathomechef.com/shop
