Butternut Pumpkin Soup Recipe Vegetarian and Delicious Ideas

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Warm, comforting, and packed with vibrant autumnal flavors, butternut pumpkin soup is a classic favorite for chilly days. This vegetarian version is not only wholesome and satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare.

Made with smooth roasted butternut pumpkin, fragrant spices, and a touch of creaminess, it’s perfect for cozy dinners or as a starter for festive meals. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Beyond its delicious taste, this soup is versatile and can be adapted to suit different dietary preferences. It’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free options are easy to incorporate, and it freezes well so you can enjoy it anytime.

If you love simple, flavorful, and healthy dishes, keep reading to discover how to make this delightful butternut pumpkin soup from scratch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This butternut pumpkin soup recipe is a winner for many reasons. First, it uses fresh, seasonal ingredients that highlight the natural sweetness and creaminess of the pumpkin.

Roasting the pumpkin before blending enhances its flavor, giving the soup a rich and slightly caramelized taste that store-bought soups just can’t match.

It’s vegetarian-friendly and can easily be made vegan by swapping out the cream for coconut milk or a plant-based alternative. The soup is also quite forgiving, allowing you to customize the seasoning and texture to your liking, whether you prefer it silky smooth or a bit chunky.

Finally, it’s a nutritious choice packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. This makes it a perfect meal to boost your immune system during the colder months while indulging in a comforting bowl of goodness.

Ingredients

  • 1 medium butternut pumpkin (about 3-4 cups peeled and cubed)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes for a hint of heat

Equipment

  • Large baking tray
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Blender or immersion blender
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Ladle for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut pumpkin in half, scoop out the seeds, peel it, and chop into roughly 1-inch cubes.
  2. Toss the pumpkin cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking tray and roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized. Set aside once done.
  3. While the pumpkin is roasting, heat the remaining olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until translucent and soft.
  4. Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, and ground coriander. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  5. Add the roasted pumpkin cubes to the pot, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  6. Remove the pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until silky.
  7. Stir in the coconut milk or cream. Season with additional salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using. Warm the soup gently over low heat for another 5 minutes, but do not boil.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme or parsley. Enjoy with crusty bread or your favorite side.

Tips & Variations

Roasting the pumpkin adds depth of flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can boil the cubes until tender—just be aware the soup will be less caramelized.

For a vegan version, substitute the cream with full-fat coconut milk or almond cream. If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the vegetable broth by half or add a small potato or carrot during roasting for extra body.

For a spicy twist, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a fresh chili pepper when sautéing the onion and garlic. You can also blend in some roasted red peppers or a handful of fresh herbs such as basil or cilantro for a fresh note.

To make this soup heartier, consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas before blending. They boost protein and add texture.

For a nutty flavor, garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of browned butter.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 180 kcal
Protein 3 g
Carbohydrates 28 g
Dietary Fiber 5 g
Fat 7 g
Saturated Fat 4 g
Vitamin A 230% DV
Vitamin C 30% DV
Iron 8% DV

Serving Suggestions

This butternut pumpkin soup pairs beautifully with warm, toasted bread like garlic baguette or a rustic sourdough. For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.

To add a touch of indulgence, top the soup with a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or crème fraîche. Garnishing with toasted pumpkin seeds or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can elevate the presentation and flavor.

If you’re interested in exploring other warming dishes, you might enjoy our Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe for a hearty protein option, or try the light and refreshing Halibut Dip Recipe as a starter. For a sweet finish to your meal, check out the delightful Lemon Straws Recipe.

Conclusion

Butternut pumpkin soup is a timeless dish that comforts and nourishes with every spoonful. Its naturally sweet and creamy texture combined with warm spices makes it an ideal meal for any season, especially when you crave something cozy and homemade.

This vegetarian recipe is not only simple to make but also highly adaptable, catering to diverse dietary needs and flavor preferences.

Whether you’re serving it as a starter at a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this soup delivers both nutrition and satisfaction. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to celebrate the harvest season’s bounty.

Give it a try and experience the magic of fresh butternut pumpkin transformed into a velvety, flavorful soup that everyone will love.

📖 Recipe Card: Butternut Pumpkin Soup Recipe Vegetarian

Description: A creamy and comforting vegetarian butternut pumpkin soup perfect for any season. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients and rich flavors.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 medium butternut pumpkin (about 900g), peeled and diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
  3. Add diced pumpkin, cumin, and cinnamon; cook for 5 minutes.
  4. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until pumpkin is tender.
  6. Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender.
  7. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.
  8. Heat through for 5 minutes, then serve garnished with parsley.

Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 9 g | Carbs: 22 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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