Cozy Fall Soup Recipes to Simmer on a Chilly Night
Oh, my dears, there’s just something utterly magical about the crisp air of autumn, isn’t there? As the leaves begin their magnificent dance of color, my heart always turns to the kitchen, eager to create dishes that wrap us in warmth. And when that first real chill sets in, nothing quite beckons me like the promise of comforting Fall soup recipes simmering gently on the stove. There’s a beautiful alchemy in transforming simple, seasonal ingredients into a bowl of pure, unadulterated comfort.
I remember childhood afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, the scent of spices and slow-cooked goodness filling every corner. She taught me that the best meals weren’t just about the ingredients; they were about the love poured into every stir and simmer, and how a truly heartwarming soup could bring everyone together, chasing away the day’s worries.
This particular soup, our creamy autumn harvest butternut squash with apple and crispy sage, is truly a gift of the season. It’s wonderfully approachable for any home cook, bursting with vibrant flavors, and utterly perfect for those evenings when you simply crave a hug in a bowl. My top tip for any home chef? Always taste and adjust as you go – your palate is your best guide!
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Crafting the most delightful Fall soup recipes often begins with a few star ingredients that truly sing of the season. For this creamy butternut squash soup, we lean into the sweet earthiness of butternut squash, the bright tartness of a Granny Smith or Fuji apple, and the comforting richness of heavy cream. You’ll find the full list of ingredients and precise measurements in the recipe card below, ready for your next culinary adventure!
How to Make Fall soup recipes
Creating a truly memorable Fall soup recipes doesn’t have to be complicated, and this butternut squash soup is a perfect example of elegant simplicity. We begin by roasting our beautiful squash to deepen its flavors, then gently sauté aromatic onions and garlic. Next, everything simmers together with apples and broth, before transforming into a velvety smooth delight. A touch of cream and a sprinkle of crispy sage complete this cozy masterpiece.
Creamy Autumn Harvest Butternut Squash Soup with Apple & Crispy Sage
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the diced butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized. Set aside.
- While the squash roasts, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced apple, roasted butternut squash, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and dried sage to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup directly in the pot until it is completely smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a stand blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
- Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk). Taste the soup and season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Gently reheat the soup over low heat, being careful not to bring it to a boil.
- In a small skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the fresh sage leaves and fry for 30-60 seconds per side, until they are crispy and fragrant. Remove the crispy sage leaves with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
- Ladle the hot, creamy soup into bowls. Garnish each serving with a few crispy sage leaves and a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans. A small swirl of extra heavy cream or crème fraîche can also be added for an extra touch of richness.
Notes
Make Ahead: This soup can be made entirely ahead of time and reheated gently on the stovetop. If making ahead, add the heavy cream just before reheating and serving.
Vegan Option: For a completely vegan soup, ensure you use vegetable broth and substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk.
Pro Tips for Making This Fall soup recipes
Making a truly comforting bowl of Fall soup recipes is an art, and after countless batches, I’ve gathered a few tricks to ensure yours is absolutely perfect every time.
My Secret Trick: For the deepest flavor, always roast your butternut squash until it’s beautifully caramelized around the edges before adding it to the soup. This extra step brings out a richness you just can’t achieve by boiling or steaming. It’s a little bit of patience that pays off tenfold in the final taste!
- Sauté with Care: When you’re sautéing your onions and garlic, take your time. Let them soften and become fragrant without browning. This gentle cooking builds a lovely flavor foundation for your creamy Fall soup recipes.
- Embrace the Immersion Blender: If you have one, an immersion blender is your best friend for achieving that silky-smooth consistency right in the pot. It saves on washing extra dishes and makes the blending process a breeze. Just be sure not to over-blend, or the soup can become gummy!
- Season as You Go: Don’t be shy with your salt and pepper, but add them gradually. Taste the soup after blending and before serving, making small adjustments until the flavors truly sing. I always recommend tasting, tasting, tasting!
Fun Variations for Fall soup recipes
One of the greatest joys of cooking, especially with beloved Fall soup recipes, is the freedom to play and make a dish truly your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with this creamy butternut squash soup!
- Spice it Up: My friend always asks me to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a tiny dash of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky heat. It adds a delightful warmth that complements the sweet squash beautifully.
- Sweetness Swap: If you prefer a less sweet profile, you can reduce the amount of apple or even swap it for a tart pear. Alternatively, for an extra cozy sweetness, a tablespoon of pure maple syrup or brown sugar stirred in at the end is wonderful.
- Herbaceous Twists: While crispy sage is heavenly, a sprinkle of fresh thyme or a touch of rosemary can also bring a lovely aromatic note to this Fall soup recipes. Dried sage is a wonderful base, but fresh herbs for garnish elevate it even more.
- Cream Alternatives: For a slightly lighter touch, you could use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a subtle tropical twist. My sister loves when I use crème fraîche for a tangier, richer finish.
What to Serve With Fall soup recipes
When I’m making a comforting bowl of Fall soup recipes, I always think about what little extras will complete the experience, turning a simple meal into something truly special.
- Crusty Bread: There’s nothing quite like a warm, crusty loaf of artisanal bread for dipping into this creamy butternut squash soup. I love serving it with a baguette or a rustic sourdough to soak up every last drop.
- Gourmet Grilled Cheese: For a heartier meal, a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich is a match made in heaven. Think sharp cheddar and caramelized onions, or perhaps a brie and apple combination. My mom always said soup and a sandwich was the ultimate comfort pairing!
- Simple Green Salad: To balance the richness of the soup, a light, crisp green salad with a bright vinaigrette is a fantastic choice. It adds a refreshing contrast that makes the whole meal sing.
- Toasted Seeds or Croutons: Beyond the crispy sage, a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or homemade croutons adds a wonderful textural crunch that makes these Fall soup recipes even more inviting.
How to Store Fall soup recipes
You’ll be delighted to know that this creamy butternut squash soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers on another chilly evening. Properly storing your Fall soup recipes ensures that every spoonful is as delicious as the first.
Fridge Storage
Once cooled completely, transfer the soup to an airtight container. It will keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I like to store it in individual portions for quick, easy lunches!
Freezer Tips
This soup also freezes exceptionally well! Ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving a little headspace. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating Methods
Gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through. If it’s too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. A quick sprinkle of fresh sage or a drizzle of cream after reheating brings your Fall soup recipes back to life!
Nutritional Benefits
This creamy autumn harvest butternut squash soup isn’t just delicious; it also packs a wholesome punch. Butternut squash is a fantastic source of vitamins A and C, and a good amount of fiber, making this one of those Fall soup recipes that feels indulgent yet nourishing. The addition of apples brings even more vitamins, creating a treat that’s both satisfying and contributes to your well-being.
FAQs
Faq 1
Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! This creamy butternut squash soup can easily be made vegan. Simply ensure you use vegetable broth, swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream, and use olive oil. It retains its comforting essence beautifully.
Faq 2
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add a gentle kick to your Fall soup recipes, simply stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce while the soup is simmering. Adjust to your personal preference for warmth and flavor.
Faq 3
Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, absolutely! Using pre-cut frozen butternut squash is a convenient shortcut that saves on prep time. Just make sure to thaw it first before roasting or sautéing the aromatics to prevent excess water in your soup.
Faq 4
What if my soup is too thick?
If your creamy butternut squash soup ends up thicker than you prefer, don’t worry! Simply thin it out by stirring in a little extra vegetable broth or water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed for your Fall soup recipes.
Conclusion
Oh, my dear friends, I truly hope this creamy autumn harvest butternut squash soup brings as much joy and comfort to your home as it does to mine. There’s something so deeply rewarding about creating Fall soup recipes that nourish both body and soul, especially as the days grow shorter and the evenings invite us indoors. Remember, every time you step into the kitchen, you’re not just making a meal; you’re weaving memories, one delicious, heartwarming spoonful at a time. Happy simmering, and may your kitchen always be filled with warmth and sweet aromas!