Easy Pumpkin Soup Recipe
Introducing an “Easy Pumpkin Soup Recipe” that delivers comforting simplicity. If you’re searching for a straightforward homemade pumpkin soup that embodies the essence of fall, you’ve arrived at the right place. This recipe makes the most of canned pumpkin convenience to create a comforting, filling, and delicious meal.
This Butternut Squash Soup is easily in our Top 10 most-often made family dinners, because it’s delicious and so simple. We’ve converted it into a pumpkin soup recipe by replacing the butternut squash with canned pumpkin, and we think it’s a home run! My favorite part is topping it with a handful of pepitas for a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Easy Pumpkin Soup Recipe | Ingredients
Each of these ingredient plays a crucial role in building the flavors and textures of this easy pumpkin soup recipe, resulting in a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for autumn.
- Canned Pumpkin: Canned pumpkin is the star of this soup recipe. It provides a rich, earthy flavor and a creamy texture. It’s the base of the soup, giving it that unmistakable pumpkin taste in addition to its many nutritional benefits.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth serves as the liquid component of the soup. It not only adds depth of flavor but also ensures the soup has the right consistency. You can choose chicken for a slightly meatier flavor or vegetable for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Cream Cheese: Cream cheese is the secret ingredient that imparts a creamy and luscious texture to the soup. It also contributes a mild tangy flavor, balancing the sweetness of the pumpkin.
- Salt and Pepper: These are the essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the soup. Salt provides basic seasoning, while freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick.
- Onion: Onion adds a savory and aromatic element to the soup. It’s sautéed in butter before adding other ingredients, imparting a rich, savory base to the soup.
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- Butter: Butter is used for sautéing the onion and also adds a rich, creamy flavor to the soup. It helps in achieving a silky texture and contributes to the overall depth of taste.
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder is a convenient way to introduce garlic flavor without the need to chop fresh garlic. It enhances the soup’s savory notes and complements the pumpkin.
- Cayenne Powder: Cayenne powder brings a subtle, warming spiciness to the soup. It balances the sweetness of the pumpkin and adds a layer of complexity to the flavor profile. It is used very sparingly in this recipe, so it doesn’t make this dish spicy!
- Pepitas (Pumpkin Seeds) for Topping: Pepitas, or pumpkin seeds, are used as a garnish. They provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup. They also add visual appeal and an extra layer of taste.
Easy Pumpkin Soup Recipe | Fresh Pumpkin vs. Canned Pumpkin
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin, but it will require significantly more preparation. The choice between using fresh pumpkin and canned pumpkin in soup making can have a notable impact on the taste, texture, and overall convenience of the recipe. Here are some key differences between the two:
Fresh Pumpkin:
- Flavor: Fresh pumpkin typically has a milder and more delicate flavor compared to canned pumpkin.
- Texture: Fresh pumpkin, when cooked and pureed, can have a slightly grainier texture compared to the smooth consistency of canned pumpkin. Some people prefer this rustic texture.
- Preparation: Using fresh pumpkin requires more preparation. You’ll need to peel, seed, and cube the pumpkin before cooking it until it’s soft. This can be time-consuming, especially if you’re working with a large pumpkin.
- Seasonality: Fresh pumpkins are typically available in the fall. They are popular for those who enjoy seasonal cooking and want to use locally sourced produce.
- Nutritional Content: Fresh pumpkin may retain more of its nutritional content compared to canned pumpkin, as it hasn’t undergone the canning process, which can lead to some nutrient loss.
Canned Pumpkin:
- Flavor: Canned pumpkin has a more concentrated and pronounced pumpkin flavor. It’s often slightly sweeter than fresh pumpkin due to the canning process.
- Texture: Canned pumpkin is processed to have a very smooth and consistent texture. This can make it ideal for creating creamy soups without any graininess.
- Convenience: Canned pumpkin is incredibly convenient. It’s available year-round and eliminates the need for the time-consuming preparation required for fresh pumpkin.
- Consistency: Canned pumpkin provides consistent results, as the flavor and texture are standardized. This makes it easier to predict the outcome of your soup.
- Storage: Canned pumpkin has a longer shelf life and can be stored for an extended period without spoiling. This is particularly useful for making soup at any time of the year.
Easy Pumpkin Soup Recipe | FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and for a vegan version, replace cream cheese with a non-dairy alternative like vegan cream cheese or coconut milk.
Is there a substitute for cream cheese?
If you prefer not to use cream cheese, you can substitute it with heavy cream or full fat coconut cream for a different creamy texture and taste.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze pumpkin soup?
Yes, you can freeze pumpkin soup. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw and reheat it when you’re ready to enjoy.
What are some recommended toppings for this soup?
Besides pepitas, you can garnish your pumpkin soup with a drizzle of sour cream or yogurt, chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or chives), croutons, or a sprinkle of grated cheese for added flavor and texture. We also happen to know from experience that crumbled cornbread is a delicious mix-in– so good!
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the recipe by using vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or roasted butternut squash to enhance the flavor and nutritional profile.
Easy Pumpkin Soup Recipe | Instructions
Easy Pumpkin Soup Recipe
Weeknights made easy: Try this no-fuss, easy pumpkin soup recipe for a delicious dinner on those extra busy evenings this Fall.
Ingredients
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 Tbsp. butter
- 29 oz. canned pumpkin
- 5 cups chicken or vegetable broth*
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- salt, pepper, red cayenne pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large soup pot over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the onions until soft and fragrant.
- Add the pumpkin and the chicken broth. You can add more broth later to adjust the consistency of the soup if desired.
- Cook and stir just until the mixture is heated through. Add salt and pepper to taste. Add a small dash of cayenne.
- Allow to simmer until small bubbles appear. Turn the heat to low.
- Add the cream cheese, cover, and let rest for about 5 minutes to give the cream cheese time to soften and melt a little bit.
- Remove from heat and blend until completely smooth. We recommend using an immersion (stick) blender.
- Alternatively: Ladle out a few cups of the soup (including any chunks of un-melted cream cheese) and transfer to a blender. Once blended, add back to the soup and whisk to combine.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red cayenne pepper (use a light hand with cayenne until you know how spicy you will like it) to taste.
- Serve and garnish with pepitas and sour cream.
Notes
*I love adding a little scoop of Better Than Boullion Chicken Base to make this soup taste EXTRA! It just gives this dish that 'little something special' that people can't quite put their finger on and keeps them coming back for more 🙂
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 496Total Fat: 34gSaturated Fat: 16gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 159mgSodium: 460mgCarbohydrates: 17gFiber: 5gSugar: 8gProtein: 31g
Indulge in the cozy charm of fall with our homemade pumpkin soup, a creamy and comforting delight that’s perfect for chilly evenings. This creamy pumpkin bisque recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and seasoned chefs alike. With canned pumpkin puree as the star ingredient, you’ll find that this recipe is a breeze to put together. Whether you’re in search of healthy and vegan options or just craving a bowl of rich, flavorful goodness, our creamy pumpkin soup caters to all preferences.
To elevate your pumpkin soup experience, consider topping your bowl with a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas. These little gems add a delightful crunch and a nutty undertone that pairs perfectly with the smoothness of the soup. Additionally, you can experiment with different seasonings and garnishes to suit your taste buds, from a touch of cayenne powder for a hint of heat to fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a burst of color and flavor. So, if you’re on the hunt for a soul-warming, autumn-inspired dish, give our homemade creamy pumpkin soup a try—it’s a simple yet heartwarming addition to your seasonal recipe collection.
Whether you’re seeking simple autumn recipes, vegetarian pumpkin soup options, or quick dinner ideas, our creamy pumpkin soup fits the bill. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, offering a delicious solution for any occasion, from family dinners to casual gatherings with friends. With just a few basic ingredients and a dash of creativity, you can transform a can of pumpkin puree into a comforting bowl of soup that embodies the flavors of the season. Don’t hesitate to explore our easy pumpkin soup recipe—it’s the ultimate fall comfort food that’s both wholesome and hearty.
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