Pumpkin Soup

This creamy Pumpkin Soup is the ultimate fall comfort dish—warm, silky, and infused with cozy herbs and spices. Made with pumpkin puree, carrots, onions, and a touch of cream, it comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for chilly evenings, it also makes a delicious starter for holiday dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes

• Cozy and flavorful: Herbs, garlic, and paprika add depth to the pumpkin

• Velvety texture: Blend for a smooth, creamy consistency

• Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples like canned pumpkin and stock

• Versatile: Works as a starter, side, or light main dish

• Seasonal classic: The perfect soup for fall and holiday gatherings

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• butter

• yellow onion, diced

• carrot, thinly sliced

• salt and black pepper, to taste

• garlic cloves, minced

• sweet or smoked paprika

• dried thyme

• dried rosemary

• canned pumpkin puree

• chicken stock (or vegetable stock for vegetarian option)

• heavy whipping cream

Directions

1. Sauté Aromatics
   In a Dutch oven or large pot, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add diced onion and sliced carrots. Season with salt and pepper, then cook for 4–5 minutes, until vegetables soften.

2. Add Garlic and Spices
   Stir in minced garlic, paprika, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for about 15 seconds, just until fragrant.

3. Add Pumpkin and Stock
   Stir in pumpkin puree, then pour in the chicken stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.

4. Blend (Optional)
   For a smooth texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot, or carefully transfer to a blender in batches. Blend until creamy, or leave chunky for a rustic soup.

5. Finish with Cream
   Remove the soup from heat and stir in the heavy whipping cream. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

6. Serve
   Ladle into bowls and serve warm. Garnish with a swirl of cream, fresh herbs, or croutons if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.

• Extra creamy: Blend in coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free option.

• Add toppings: Toasted pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of olive oil add texture.

• Herb twist: Stir in fresh sage or parsley at the end for brightness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes. Roast, peel, and puree fresh pumpkin before adding to the soup.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, swap the cream for full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

What type of paprika works best?

Sweet paprika adds warmth, while smoked paprika gives the soup a deeper, earthy flavor.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling?

No, pumpkin pie filling contains sugar and spices. Use plain pumpkin puree only.

How can I thicken the soup?

Simmer uncovered a bit longer, or blend in an extra cooked carrot or potato.

How do I make the soup thinner?

Add additional stock or water until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze without the cream, then add cream when reheating for best texture.

What can I serve with this soup?

Pair with crusty bread, grilled cheese, or a fresh green salad.

Can I add protein to make it a main dish?

Yes, stir in cooked chicken, turkey, or white beans for extra heartiness.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Soup Recipe is a cozy, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for fall and beyond. Quick to prepare and endlessly versatile, it’s equally at home as a comforting weeknight dinner or an elegant holiday starter. Serve it with bread, salad, or toppings of your choice, and enjoy the warmth of this seasonal classic.

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