Why Make This Recipe
Butternut squash soup is a warm and comforting dish that captures the essence of fall with its rich flavor and creamy texture. Making it in an Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also deepens the flavors, resulting in a satisfying meal in no time.
This soup is perfect for quick dinners, lunch options, or as a starter for gatherings. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy a homemade bowl of deliciousness without much fuss.
Equipment Needed for Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup
To prepare this delectable butternut squash soup, you will need some essential kitchen equipment. An Instant Pot is the star of the show, allowing for quick cooking and easy cleanup. A good cutting board and a sharp knife will help you chop the ingredients efficiently.
You may also want to have a blender on hand to achieve that smooth, velvety texture that makes this soup so enjoyable. Finally, measuring cups and spoons will ensure that you get the proportions just right.
What You Need to Make Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion
- 3 oz celery
- 3 large garlic cloves (smashed)
- 24 oz butternut squash (peeled, seeded, and chopped)
- 10 oz golden potatoes
- 1 tsp sage
- salt (to taste)
- 3 cups chicken stock (just enough to barely cover the veggies)
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
How to Cook Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup Step by Step
First, start by chopping all your vegetables into approximately 1/2-inch cubes and set them aside. Prepare your workspace so everything is within reach.
Next, set your Instant Pot to the sauté setting and let it heat up. Once hot, add the olive oil to the pot.
Add the chopped onion and celery to the oil. Sauté these ingredients together until they start to turn a lovely golden color, which will take around 5 to 7 minutes.
Once your onion and celery are ready, smash your garlic cloves and add them to the pot. Sauté for another minute or two until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Now, it’s time to add the butternut squash and golden potatoes. Stir everything together and sauté these for a few minutes to mix in the flavors.
After that, sprinkle in the sage and add salt to taste. Pour in the chicken stock, making sure the vegetables are just barely covered by the liquid.
Stir well, then close the Instant Pot lid, ensuring it’s latched securely. Turn the valve to the "seal" position and set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 15 minutes.
Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release for about 10 minutes. This means you should leave the valve sealed and let the pot cool down a bit. Once ready, be cautious when opening the lid, as there may still be steam.
Transfer the soup mixture into a blender. It’s important not to add all the broth here, as the soup might turn out too runny. Set aside about 1/2 cup of broth to adjust the consistency later.
Blend everything until it reaches a smooth texture. Check the consistency; if it seems too thick for your liking, you can add in some of the broth you saved.
Finally, add the heavy cream to the blender and blend just until it’s mixed in perfectly. You want to avoid over-blending at this stage to keep that creamy richness.
Serve your creamy butternut squash soup hot. It pairs wonderfully with crackers, a grilled cheese sandwich, chickpeas, or even croutons for added texture.
How to Make Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup
Making this Instant Pot butternut squash soup is a straightforward process, and it comes together quickly. Start by prepping your vegetables to ensure a smooth cooking experience. The key here is to sauté your aromatics properly, as they lay the foundation for the soup’s flavor.
After sautéing, make sure to layer in your squash and potatoes, which add a delightful sweetness to the soup. Remember to blend in stages to control the texture. Adding cream at the end makes the soup rich and indulgent.
Take your time when you are adjusting the consistency. The magic of this soup comes from its smoothness, so blending correctly is crucial. Once everything is combined, enjoy its warmth and flavors.
How to Serve Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup
Serving butternut squash soup is quite simple, and it can be enjoyed in various ways. Ladle the soup into rustic bowls, allowing the vibrant color to shine. The creaminess will appeal to both the eyes and the palate.
You can add a swirl of additional heavy cream on top for visual appeal and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper or chopped herbs for flavor.
Accompany the soup with crusty bread, crackers, or even toasted cheese sandwiches. These complement the richness and can turn a simple bowl into a hearty meal.
What to Serve with Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup
This soup stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Consider classic grilled cheese sandwiches for a nostalgic touch.
You can also serve it with salads topped with nuts or seeds for crunch and nutrition. A side of roasted vegetables can add variety to the meal.
For a bit of protein, consider serving alongside chickpeas or lentils. These can be added directly into the soup for added texture or served as a side dish.
How to Store Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup
After enjoying your butternut squash soup, you might have leftovers to store. Allow the soup to cool down to room temperature before transferring it into airtight containers for storage.
In the refrigerator, the soup can last for about 3 to 5 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. To freeze, pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
When ready to enjoy again, defrost the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Tips to Make Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup
To ensure your butternut squash soup is a hit, here are some helpful tips. Make sure to peel and chop your squash properly, as the skin can be tough.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, a sprinkle of brown sugar can enhance the natural flavors of the squash.
When blending, start with less broth and add more gradually if needed. This way, you can control the thickness of your soup, giving you the perfect consistency.
Finally, don’t skip the cream; it elevates the soup from good to exceptional with its richness and smoothness.
Variation
There are several variations you can try to make your butternut squash soup unique. For an extra kick, add a touch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
For a more herby flavor, consider adding thyme or rosemary along with the sage. You could also experiment with different creams, such as coconut milk, for a dairy-free option.
For texture, you may also add cooked quinoa or barley for additional heartiness, making the dish even more filling.
Best Time to Make Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup
While butternut squash soup is great for any time of the year, it truly shines in the cooler months. Fall and winter are perfect for enjoying warm and comforting bowls of soup.
This season offers an abundance of fresh squash, making it a natural fit.
Hosting a gathering? This soup can serve as a cozy starter in the colder months, bringing comfort to your guests and setting the tone for a delightful meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making butternut squash soup, there are a few common pitfalls to be aware of. First, overcooking the vegetables can lead to a mushy texture, so keep an eye on the sauté process.
Another mistake is neglecting to taste as you go along. Adjusting the seasoning throughout can make a big difference in the final flavor of the dish.
Finally, don’t rush the blending process. Ensuring a smooth consistency is crucial, so blend longer if needed and check if more liquid should be added.
Nutritional Notes
Butternut squash is packed with essential nutrients like vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. While this soup is delicious, it’s also nutritious, making it an excellent choice for a healthy meal.
The addition of heavy cream contributes some fat and calories, but it also enhances the flavor and creaminess of the soup. You can always opt for lighter alternatives if you prefer a lower-calorie option.
A serving of this soup can be filling and satisfying, perfect for a lunch or dinner option that won’t weigh you down.
FAQs
Can I use frozen butternut squash for this recipe?
Yes, frozen butternut squash can be used. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as frozen vegetables may require a few extra minutes.
What can I use instead of chicken stock?
You can use vegetable stock or broth if you want a vegetarian or vegan option.
Can I make this soup ahead of time and freeze it?
Absolutely! This soup freezes very well. Just make sure to cool it completely before pouring it into freezer-safe containers.
Conclusion
Instant pot butternut squash soup is a delightful recipe that celebrates the flavors of the season. It combines simplicity and heartiness in every bowl, perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings.
With its easy preparation and flexibility for tweaks, this soup can become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting warmth as you savor every delightful spoonful. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this soup is sure to bring joy to your table.
