Creamy Roasted Carrot Butternut Squash Soup: Your Easy & Healthy Fall Favorite

Welcome to soup season! This exceptionally easy and incredibly flavorful Carrot Butternut Squash Soup is crafted with simple, wholesome ingredients like sweet carrots, rich butternut squash, aromatic onion, pungent garlic, savory broth, and a perfect blend of warming spices. It’s more than just a soup; it’s a comforting bowl that epitomizes the cozy essence of autumn. Serve this creamy, dairy-free delight with a slice of crusty bread, a crisp healthy Caesar salad, a classic grilled cheese, or alongside a tender rosemary roasted pork tenderloin. For a heartier meal, simply stir in some shredded chicken, transforming it into a complete and satisfying dish.

This delightful roasted butternut squash and carrot soup draws its inspiration from the “Savory Butternut Squash Soup” featured on the Fall menu at True Food Kitchen, one of my absolute favorite restaurants. I was so captivated by its rich color and unique flavor profile that I just had to uncover their secret. I vividly remember asking our server what spices they used and how they achieved such a deep, inviting hue. His simple, yet profound, advice was to “roast the butternut squash and add allspice.”

And that, dear readers, is precisely what I did! 🤩 Initially, I referred to this as my Vitamix Butternut Squash Soup, a testament to the high-speed blender’s ability to create an incredibly smooth texture. However, through experimentation, I discovered that by adding carrots, the soup gained an even greater depth of flavor and a natural sweetness that perfectly complements the squash. While a Vitamix certainly makes the blending process effortless, any reliable blender can achieve a wonderfully creamy consistency. Prepare to be amazed when you taste this incredibly delicious and vibrant soup!

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Easy Carrot Butternut Squash Soup

As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort and joy. This creamy butternut squash carrot soup is particularly special; it somehow tastes even better on a chilly day. Yum! Here’s why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your fall cooking repertoire:

• Effortlessly Easy Recipe: You’ll be surprised at how simple it is to achieve such gourmet flavor. The process is straightforward: roast your beautiful vegetables and garlic until tender and caramelized, then blend them with savory broth and your chosen spices. For an even quicker prep, feel free to use pre-cut butternut squash available in most grocery stores, saving you valuable time in the kitchen. This minimal effort yields maximum reward!
• Wholesome & Simple Ingredients: This recipe highlights the natural goodness of its core components: nutrient-rich butternut squash, sweet carrots, pungent onion, aromatic garlic, flavorful broth, and a selection of warm, inviting spices. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the soup’s delicious, layered flavor profile without relying on complicated additions.
• Kid-Approved Flavor Profile: Getting kids to eat their vegetables can be a challenge, but this soup is a true game-changer! The roasted carrots naturally sweeten the soup, creating an appealing taste that even picky eaters will enjoy. The seasoning is mild yet flavorful, designed to be palatable for younger palates. If your family prefers more intensely flavored dishes, you can easily double up on the spices without overwhelming the delicate sweetness of the vegetables.
• Luxuriously Creamy (Dairy-Free!): Experience the ultimate in creamy texture without any heavy cream or dairy products. This is a naturally dairy-free butternut squash soup, achieving its silky smooth consistency solely from the blended roasted vegetables. This makes it a fantastic option for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking for a lighter, healthier soup alternative. Check our ‘Recipe Variations’ section for ideas to make it even richer if desired.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup is an absolute dream for busy schedules! You can prepare a large batch ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When hunger strikes, simply rewarm a single serving in the microwave in 30-second intervals until it’s heated through. It’s an ideal solution for quick lunches or easy weeknight dinners, ensuring a healthy and delicious meal is always within reach.

Dietitian Tips for Raising Adventurous Eaters

Soups are an excellent and often overlooked avenue for introducing your children to new flavors and significantly increasing their daily vegetable intake. The blended, smooth texture can make unfamiliar vegetables more approachable.

Tip 1: The “One Bite” Rule & Patience is Key. If your kids are hesitant to try a “squash soup,” gently encourage them (never force them) to take just one small bite. Explain that they don’t have to take a second bite if they genuinely don’t like it. If they decline more, don’t make it a big deal or show disappointment. Simply offer it again the next time you prepare it. Remember that children often require multiple exposures to a new food—sometimes 10 to 15 times—before they will fully accept it. Repeated exposure fosters familiarity, and familiarity often leads to acceptance. This principle holds true for a delicious roasted butternut squash soup just as much as any other new food.

Tip 2: Lead by Example. Children are incredibly observant! Let your kids see you (and any other adults in the home) enthusiastically eat and enjoy this homemade soup. Your positive actions speak volumes and are often far more influential than any words you might say. 😉 Show them how much you love this healthy, creamy soup, and they’ll be more inclined to give it a try.

Tip 3: Involve Them in the Process. If age-appropriate, involve your children in the simple steps of making this carrot butternut squash soup. They can help wash vegetables, spread them on the baking sheet, or even press the blender button (with supervision!). When kids participate in preparing a meal, they often feel more invested and are more likely to taste and enjoy the final product.

Delicious Recipe Variations to Customize Your Butternut Squash Soup

While this easy butternut squash soup is fantastic as is, it’s also incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with these variations to tailor the flavors and textures to your personal preferences or what you have on hand:

• Coconut Milk for a Tropical Twist: For a subtle sweetness and a rich, creamy consistency with an exotic hint of coconut, substitute one cup of the broth with full-fat canned coconut milk. This variation works beautifully and adds another layer of flavor.
• Maple Syrup for Enhanced Sweetness: If you prefer a slightly sweeter soup, stir in a small amount (start with 1-2 teaspoons) of pure maple syrup after blending. The maple complements the natural sweetness of the squash and carrots perfectly, making this a truly comforting fall dish.
• Achieve Extra Creaminess: To make this creamy soup even more luxurious, you have a few options. You can reduce the amount of broth by about half a cup for a thicker consistency. Alternatively, stir in a small dollop of plain yogurt (dairy or non-dairy for a vegan option), a splash of heavy cream, or additional coconut milk at the end of the cooking process.
• Add a Zing with Ginger: For a warming and slightly spicy kick, blend in one-quarter to one-half teaspoon of ground ginger or a small piece of fresh ginger (peeled and roughly chopped) along with the other ingredients. I highly recommend trying the original recipe first to appreciate its base flavor before introducing ginger.
• Embrace the Flavor of Curry: If you’re a fan of aromatic spices, consider adding a small amount (start with ½ teaspoon) of mild curry powder when blending the soup. Like ginger, it’s best to taste the soup as is first, then adjust with curry powder to your liking. It adds a wonderful depth and complexity.
• Spice It Up with Cayenne: For those who love a bit of heat, a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper added to the spices before roasting or blended in at the end can provide a delightful warmth and gentle kick.

Key Ingredients for Your Delicious Carrot Butternut Squash Soup

Crafting the perfect homemade butternut squash soup starts with understanding each ingredient and its contribution to the final flavor and texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Butternut Squash: This is, of course, the star of our show! Butternut squash provides a naturally sweet and nutty base. It’s not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, especially beta-carotene (a precursor to Vitamin A) and dietary fiber, supporting eye health and digestion. Roasting brings out its deep, sweet flavors and creates that beautiful rich color.
• Carrots: Adding carrots to this butternut squash soup recipe was a game-changer. They contribute an additional layer of sweetness, a vibrant orange hue, and a boost of Vitamin A. For best results, use two medium carrots or one-and-a-half large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks to roast evenly with the squash.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatic powerhouses form the savory foundation of the soup. Using a yellow onion and fresh cloves of garlic is crucial. Roasting them alongside the squash and carrots mellows their sharp flavors and caramelizes their natural sugars, imparting a wonderfully deep, savory, and slightly sweet undertone that elevates the entire soup.
• Broth: I typically opt for low-sodium chicken broth or chicken stock to achieve the perfect ‘soup’ consistency and a rich, savory flavor. Using a low-sodium option gives you more control over the salt content of the final dish. For a completely vegan butternut squash soup, simply substitute chicken broth with water or a good quality vegetable broth.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for roasting the vegetables. Its fruity notes complement the other ingredients beautifully. If you prefer, any neutral-flavored oil like avocado or grapeseed oil can be used instead.
• Spices: The blend of ground allspice, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper is what truly makes this soup sing. Allspice offers a unique blend of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg flavors, providing warmth and complexity. If you don’t have allspice, ground cloves can be used as a delicious substitute, as I’ve done successfully in the past. Always taste and adjust seasoning to your preference!
• Fresh Sage Leaves (Optional, but Recommended!): A few tiny pieces of fresh sage, gently scattered over each bowl as you serve, can elevate the flavor profile to an entirely new level. The fragrant, earthy notes of sage pair wonderfully with butternut squash. If your kids have a strong aversion to textured garnishes, feel free to omit this step.

How to Make This Dreamy Roasted Carrot Butternut Squash Soup

Creating this rich and creamy butternut squash soup is a straightforward process that yields incredibly delicious results. Here’s a quick overview of the essential steps. For the complete list of ingredients and precise measurements, please refer to the detailed recipe card below.

1. **Prepare and Season the Vegetables:** Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Then, on a large, rimmed baking sheet, spread out the uniformly cubed butternut squash, carrot chunks, sliced onion, and peeled garlic cloves. Drizzle generously with olive oil and toss everything together until each piece is lightly coated. Season lightly with black pepper and a tiny pinch of salt at this stage.
2. **Roast to Perfection:** Place the baking sheet on the top rack of your preheated oven. Roast for approximately 30 minutes, or until the edges of the onion and butternut squash start to caramelize and turn a beautiful golden brown. This roasting step is crucial for developing the deep, savory, and sweet flavors that define this extraordinary soup. Once roasted, carefully remove the sheet pan from the oven.
3. **Blend Until Silky Smooth:** Carefully transfer the hot roasted vegetables into a high-speed blender (like a Vitamix) or a large pot if you’re using an immersion blender. Add the specified amount of broth, the remaining salt, and your chosen spices (allspice and nutmeg). Blend on high speed for 30 seconds to one minute, or until the mixture is completely smooth and free of any chunks. The goal is a velvety, uniform consistency.
4. **Warm and Serve:** If you plan to serve the soup immediately, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, or heat in the microwave until it reaches your desired serving temperature. The broth will have cooled the roasted vegetables, so reheating is essential for a piping hot bowl of comfort. If not serving right away, store it properly as described below.

Helpful Tips for the Best Butternut Squash Carrot Soup

Achieving the perfect bowl of homemade butternut squash soup is easy with a few insider tips. These pointers will help ensure your soup is flavorful, creamy, and a delight for everyone:

• Reheating is Key for Temperature: Since broth is typically stored at room temperature (if unopened) or refrigerated, adding it to the hot roasted vegetables will naturally cool the mixture down significantly. This is precisely why you’ll need to warm the soup up before serving to bring it to a comforting, enjoyable temperature.
• Butternut Squash Size Matters: Butternut squash comes in a variety of sizes. The ones I often receive from my CSA typically yield around five cups of cubed flesh (give or take half a cup). If you encounter a much larger squash, which can sometimes provide almost double the flesh, consider doubling the entire recipe to maintain the perfect flavor balance.
• Time-Saving Shortcut: Pre-Cut Squash: For those busy weeknights or when you’re short on time, don’t hesitate to purchase pre-packaged, pre-cut butternut squash. You can find it in the produce section of most grocery stores, and sometimes even in larger quantities at warehouses like Costco. This simple shortcut can reduce your prep time by 5-8 minutes, getting you to a warm bowl of soup even faster!
• Excellent Make-Ahead Option: This healthy butternut squash soup is a fantastic recipe for meal prepping. You can roast the vegetables ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days until you’re ready to blend. Alternatively, prepare the entire soup, cool it completely, and store it refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days.
• Blending Technique for Optimal Creaminess: When using a blender, always start on the lowest speed setting and gradually increase the speed. This prevents splashing and ensures a smoother blend. A high-speed blender (designed to safely handle hot liquids) will produce the ultimate silky-smooth consistency, often superior to an immersion blender, with less mess. While I haven’t tried a food processor for this, it might work if it’s rated for hot food and can handle the volume.
• Avoid Overpowering Aromatics: Do not double the garlic or onions unless you are doubling the *entire* recipe. I learned this the hard way once: my daughter, who previously loved the soup, suddenly refused it because the garlic and onion flavors became too intense. Stick to the recipe’s proportions for a balanced, kid-friendly taste.
• Handling a Double Batch with Your Blender: If you decide to double the recipe, your blender might not accommodate all the liquid at once. In this case, pour just enough broth to reach the “max capacity” line of your blender (I absolutely love my Vitamix). Blend this thicker mixture. Then, transfer it to a large soup pot or Dutch oven, add the remaining broth, stir to combine, and warm everything to a serving temperature on the stovetop.

Frequently Asked Questions About Carrot Butternut Squash Soup

More Comforting Soup & Meal Ideas

If you loved this creamy roasted butternut squash soup, you might also enjoy these other wholesome and comforting recipes:

• Hearty Lentil Carrot Soup: Another nutritious and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a cozy meal.
• Kid-Approved Turkey Chili: A family-friendly chili recipe that’s packed with flavor and healthy ingredients.
• Easy Baked Italian Chicken: A simple and delicious main course that pairs wonderfully with a side of this butternut squash soup.

Discover More Easy & Delicious Fall Recipes

Embrace the flavors of autumn with these delightful recipes that are perfect for the season:

Did you make this roasted butternut squash and carrot soup recipe and absolutely love it? Please take a moment to leave a comment and a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating below. Your 5-star rating is truly the best compliment and helps others discover this fantastic recipe!

And don’t forget to snap a picture of your savory soup creation and tag me @carrots.and.cookies on Instagram so I can see and share your delicious results! Happy cooking!

Carrot Butternut Squash Soup

Kristi