As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort to chilly autumn days. This Tasty Panera Autumn Squash Soup Recipe (Copycat) captures the essence of fall with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Easy to make at home, this recipe will become a staple in your seasonal meal rotation.
This delightful soup combines the sweetness of butternut squash with a hint of spice, making it perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be able to whip up a batch that rivals your favorite café version. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how you can recreate it in your own kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Tasty Panera Autumn Squash Soup recipe is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it as a hearty starter or pair it with your favorite sandwich for a satisfying meal. The velvety texture and well-balanced flavors make every spoonful a delight.
Another reason to adore this soup is its health benefits. Packed with nutrients from the squash and spices like ginger and cinnamon, it’s both nourishing and comforting. Plus, it’s easy to customize according to your dietary preferences—whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or looking for a low-calorie option, this recipe has got you covered.
Key Ingredients
The ingredients for this Tasty Panera Autumn Squash Soup are simple yet impactful, allowing the natural flavors of fall to shine through. Below is a list of key components you’ll need:
- Butternut Squash: The star of the show, offering sweetness and creaminess once cooked.
- Onion: Adds depth and flavor to the base of the soup.
- Garlic: Provides aromatic qualities that enhance the overall taste.
- Vegetable Broth: The liquid foundation that brings all ingredients together.
- Coconut Milk: Delivers creaminess without dairy, complementing the sweetness of the squash.
- Maple Syrup: A touch of natural sweetness that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- Cinnamon: Adds warmth and an autumnal flavor profile.
- Nutmeg: Enhances the richness with its aromatic notes.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all other flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Butternut Squash: Start by peeling, seeding, and cubing one medium-sized butternut squash. This step can be time-consuming but is crucial for achieving a smooth consistency in your soup.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté one chopped onion until translucent. Then add minced garlic and continue cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add Squash and Broth: Stir in the cubed butternut squash along with four cups of vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing heat to simmer for about 20 minutes or until squash is tender.
- Puree the Mixture: Once cooked, use an immersion blender or transfer to a regular blender in batches to puree until smooth. If using a regular blender, allow steam to escape while blending for safety.
- Add Creaminess: Return the pureed soup to low heat and stir in one cup of coconut milk along with two tablespoons of maple syrup, one teaspoon of cinnamon, and half a teaspoon of nutmeg. Keep stirring until heated through.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Finally, season with salt and pepper according to taste before serving hot with toasted bread or croutons on top for added texture.
Expert Tips
If you want your Tasty Panera Autumn Squash Soup to stand out even more, consider these expert tips:
Add roasted garlic instead of raw garlic for deeper flavor; roasting mellows its sharpness while enhancing sweetness. Additionally, using fresh herbs like sage or thyme can elevate your dish; simply add them during the simmering stage for an aromatic twist!
If you’re short on time, pre-peeled butternut squash cubes are available at many grocery stores; they save preparation time without sacrificing quality!
An immersion blender works best for easy cleanup, but if you prefer using a regular blender; remember to blend in batches carefully!
Presentation Ideas
This Tasty Panera Autumn Squash Soup deserves an equally appealing presentation! Serve it in rustic bowls topped with toasted pumpkin seeds or croutons for crunch. A drizzle of coconut milk creates beautiful patterns atop each serving while enhancing creaminess. For added flair, garnish each bowl with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives; their green color pops against the vibrant orange soup!
FAQs
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! This Tasty Panera Autumn Squash Soup freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy again, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or microwave.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
This recipe is naturally vegan-friendly since it uses coconut milk as its creamy base instead of dairy products. Just ensure you’re using vegetable broth as stated in the ingredient list—a perfect option for those following plant-based diets!
I don’t have butternut squash; can I use another type?
If butternut squash isn’t available, you could substitute with other winter squashes like acorn or kabocha squash;, however, note that cooking times may vary slightly based on their density. Sweet potatoes also work well if you’re looking for something different yet delicious!
What should I serve with this soup?
This Tasty Panera Autumn Squash Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches – classic choices! Additionally, consider pairing it alongside salad greens drizzled lightly with vinaigrette;, which adds freshness balancing out its richness perfectly!
Tasty Panera Autumn Squash Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Tasty Panera Autumn Squash Soup is the perfect cozy dish for chilly autumn days. This creamy, flavorful soup features the sweet taste of butternut squash with hints of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Easy to prepare, this recipe will quickly become a fall favorite, whether enjoyed as a starter or paired with crusty bread for a satisfying meal. With its wholesome ingredients and nourishing benefits, you can savor the essence of the season in every warm bowl.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed (about 4 cups)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in the cubed butternut squash and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the squash is tender.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth (or transfer to a regular blender in batches).
- Return the pureed soup to low heat and stir in coconut milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until heated through.
- Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg