Fall Recipes

By Elias Carter

Soul-Warming Roasted Butternut Squash & Carrot Soup with a Twist

Roasting vegetables before blending turns them into something more than just a simple soup. The caramelized edges of butternut squash and carrots fill my kitchen with a sweet, nutty aroma that triggers childhood memories of fall markets. It’s not just about flavor—it’s about capturing that cozy, oven-baked scent in every spoonful.

What makes this soup stand out is the slightly smoky undertone from the roasting process, which transforms the familiar into something bold. As I stand by the oven, I love the chaos of peeling and chopping, the sizzle as the veggies hit the tray, and the anticipation of blending that rich mess into silky warmth. This dish is a small act of comfort that feels especially urgent now.

WHY I LOVE THIS RECIPE?

  • It smells like fall even in the dead of winter, which is a little miracle.
  • The texture is velvety but with a tiny bite of roasted edges — pure pleasure.
  • Making it feels like a little celebration of vegetables—no fuss, just honest cooking.
  • The aroma of garlic and spice melting into the sweetness makes me feel grounded.
  • It’s a reminder that simple ingredients, when roasted with care, turn into something magical.

As the weather cools, I find myself drawn back to this soup time and time again. It’s a quiet moment of warmth that’s easy to prepare and deeply satisfying.

I like that it’s versatile too—drizzle a little cream, sprinkle fresh herbs, or add a pinch of chili for an extra kick. When the bowl is empty, I already start craving it again. It’s a humble dish with a quiet power to nourish both body and soul.

Roasted Butternut Squash and Carrot Soup

This soup involves roasting chunks of butternut squash and carrots until caramelized to develop depth of flavor. After roasting, the vegetables are blended into a smooth, velvety soup with a slightly smoky undertone, resulting in a warm, comforting dish with a rich texture and natural sweetness.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound butternut squash peeled and cubed
  • 2 large carrots peeled and chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for roasting and sautéing
  • 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth for richer flavor
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Blender or immersion blender
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Large pot

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spread the cubed butternut squash and chopped carrots on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, season with a pinch of salt, and toss to coat evenly. Roast for about 30-35 minutes until the vegetables are golden and caramelized around the edges.
  2. While the vegetables are roasting, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and just starting to turn golden, filling the kitchen with a warm aroma.
  3. Once the garlic is fragrant, transfer the roasted vegetables into the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften further.
  4. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot, or carefully transfer the mixture into a blender in batches, and blend until completely smooth and creamy. Be cautious with hot liquids—leave some space in the blender lid for venting.
  5. Return the blended soup to the pot (if you used a blender) and heat through over low heat, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. The soup should be velvety with a slight smoky hue from the roasted vegetables.
  6. Serve the soup hot in bowls, optionally garnished with a drizzle of cream, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a dash of chili flakes for extra warmth and flavor. Enjoy the cozy, caramelized sweetness and smoky undertones with every spoonful.

Notes

For a richer flavor, add a splash of coconut milk or a dash of smoked paprika before blending.

This soup feels like a small, tender act of self-care. It’s perfect for chilly days when you want something wholesome but uncomplicated. Every spoonful brings a bit of the seasonal peace I crave this time of year.

It reminds me to slow down, to enjoy simple pleasures, and to appreciate the rich, earthy flavors that seasonal produce brings. Sometimes, a cozy bowl of roasted vegetable soup is all you need to reset and find comfort amid the chaos.

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