Creamy Pumpkin Soup with Garlic Croutons

This Creamy Pumpkin Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly nights or cozy gatherings. Made with fresh pumpkin, potatoes, and aromatic leeks, it's blended into a smooth, velvety soup with warm spices like nutmeg and pepper. Topped with crispy homemade garlic croutons, this dish is easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you're looking for a nourishing fall recipe or a simple weeknight dinner, this pumpkin soup will be a favorite.

What Is Pumpkin Soup?

Pumpkin soup is a classic dish made by blending cooked pumpkin with broth and seasonings. It has roots in various cuisines, from French potage to Thai-inspired coconut pumpkin soup. In fall and winter, it's a go-to meal for warmth and nutrition, often served as a starter or a light main course.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Rich and creamy: The perfect balance of pumpkin and potatoes makes this soup silky and delicious.
• Easy to prepare: Minimal ingredients and simple steps make it an effortless recipe.
• Healthy and nourishing: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Customizable: Adjust the seasoning or add cream for extra richness.

Pro Tips for the Best Pumpkin Soup

• Choose the right pumpkin: Sugar pumpkins or butternut squash work best for a naturally sweet and creamy texture.
• Enhance the flavor: Roasting the pumpkin before cooking can deepen its sweetness.
• Use an immersion blender: This makes blending easier, but a regular blender works too.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Canned Pumpkin Instead of Fresh?

Yes, but fresh pumpkin provides better texture and flavor. If using canned, choose pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.

How Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?

Simply omit any cream or butter and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What Can I Add for Extra Protein?

Stir in cooked lentils or blend in some white beans for added protein and creaminess.

Can I Make it Ahead of Time?

Yes! Pumpkin soup stores well in the fridge for a few days and reheats beautifully.

What Other Toppings Can I Use?

Try toasted pumpkin seeds, a drizzle of coconut milk, or crispy bacon bits.

How to Freeze

To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove. Avoid freezing the croutons as they lose their crunch.

How to Store

Store leftover pumpkin soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until warmed through.

How To Make Creamy Pumpkin Soup

Step 1

Step 1

Peel and chop the pumpkin and potatoes into small chunks. Slice the leek thinly. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the leeks, pumpkin, and potatoes. Sauté for 2 minutes until slightly softened.

Peel and chop the pumpkin and potatoes into small chunks. Slice the leek thinly. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the leeks, pumpkin, and potatoes. Sauté for 2 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 2

Step 2

Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rosemary sprig.

Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rosemary sprig.

Step 3

Step 3

Cover and let simmer for 20 minutes or until the vegetables are fork-tender.

Cover and let simmer for 20 minutes or until the vegetables are fork-tender.

Step 4

Step 4

Remove the rosemary sprig. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Season with salt, nutmeg, and black pepper. Stir well.

Remove the rosemary sprig. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Season with salt, nutmeg, and black pepper. Stir well.

Step 5

Step 5

In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and rosemary. Toss in the bread cubes and cook, stirring, until golden and crispy.

In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and rosemary. Toss in the bread cubes and cook, stirring, until golden and crispy.

Step 6

Step 6

Ladle the hot pumpkin soup into bowls, top with crispy croutons, and drizzle with a little olive oil. Enjoy!

Ladle the hot pumpkin soup into bowls, top with crispy croutons, and drizzle with a little olive oil. Enjoy!